An exquisite program by the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company was presented for Year of the Horse, a Lunar New Year Celebration at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on February 14 and 15 in the Center’s Victoria Theater on the Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch Stage. The family-friendly matinees featured two new dances by the company, debuted a special collaboration with Newark’s Sport Club Português and included an exciting audience favorite, the Dragon Dance. It was a colorful, stunning, and vibrant production.
The Lunar New Year starts on February 17, 2026 and ends on February 6, 2026. The Year of the Horse is the 7th sign in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle and it is symbolic of energy and independence. This Lunar New Year, the Horse is paired with the Fire Element which makes it a Fire Horse year. This only happens once every 60 years and accentuates the Horse’s characteristics such as courage and action.
The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company perfectly captured the spirit of Year of the Horse with style and verve. Some of the many outstanding pieces included Lion in the City with choreography by Peiju Chien-Patt and hip-hop legends Kwikstep and Rokafella with assistance from Yvonne Chow. Mongolian Harvest made its world premiere with choreography by Lawrence Jin.
The dynamic work captures the essence of the nomadic Mongolian way of life. Carousel with choreography by Nai-Ni Chen showcased the company’s talents for contemporary dance. Quing Bells in Joyful Dance charmed as it shares happiness and good wishes. The audience was also treated to the musical talents of LiangXing Tang on Pipa and Yi Yang on guzheng. These elements of the program and more proved captivating.
We are very impressed by the diverse talents of the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company. This renowned international touring troupe was founded by Chinese American choreographer Nai-Ni Chen and now helmed by Artistic Director Greta Campo and Executive Director Andy Chiang. This Asian American woman led company provides programs for educational settings, community organizations and mainstage venues. The Company’s mission is to be a premier provider of innovative cultural experiences that reflect the inspiring hope and energy of the immigrant’s journey.
For more information, please visit HOME | Nai-Ni Chen Dance Co
To learn more about upcoming programs at New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, please visit New Jersey Performing Arts Center | NJPAC
Photos by Charles Bao
