Dance of Asian America

Join us at our 25th Anniversary Gala!

Dance of Asian America (DAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit promoting Chinese cultural heritage through authentic dance. We sustain traditions, build international bridges, and educate Houston in cross-cultural understanding while fostering new generations of professional artists.Annually, we reach 50,000+ people through 50+ free performances, educational programs, and community events. Our four core initiatives include public performances at Miller Outdoor Theatre, educational programs for PreK-12 and adults, community outreach at festivals and hospitals, and professional training for our company dancers. Through these programs, DAA enriches Houston's cultural landscape while preserving the dance traditions of China's 56 ethnic groups.

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About Us

Dance of Asian America (DAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit promoting Chinese cultural heritage through authentic dance. We sustain traditions, build international bridges, and educate Houston in cross-cultural understanding while fostering new generations of professional artists.DAA champions inclusivity by serving historically underserved communities—particularly those defined by race, culture, nationality, gender identity, and sexual orientation—making high-quality cultural arts accessible to Houston's diverse population.Annually, we reach 50,000+ people through 50+ free performances, educational programs, and community events. Our four core initiatives include public performances at Miller Outdoor Theatre, educational programs for PreK-12 and adults, community outreach at festivals and hospitals, and professional training for our company dancers. Through these programs, DAA enriches Houston's cultural landscape while preserving the dance traditions of China's 56 ethnic groups.

Faculty & Staff

Janie Yao
Yeeree Bingham
Nao Kusuzaki
Amy Fote
Teresa Flores
Dominique George
Angela Hendrickson
Helen Hu
Vivian Lee
Sylvia Ngo
Victor Reyes
Mitsi Shen

Our History

Founded in 2001, Dance of Asian America began with a simple mission: promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Asia through Asian dance. Today, we're a cultural cornerstone reaching 50,000+ people annually through performances, education, and community engagement.Our evolution reflects Houston's growth. What started as cultural preservation has become cultural exchange—our "East Meets West" productions united tens of thousands of Houstonians and vistors, while "Splendid CHINA" brought award-winning artists from Beijing and Shanghai to Texas stages. We've expanded our programming and performances to schools, hospitals, libraries, and festivals citywide.Twenty-plus years later, DAA has trained generations of dancers who bridge cultures through movement. Our educational programs reach PreK classrooms to university students, to senior centers, Medical Center and so many more making Chinese culture accessible to all.

Learn about DAA's affiliated Academy!

Board of Directors

President: Janie Parker
Vice President: Linda Wu
Secretary: Christine Ho
Treasurer: Linh Su
Jan Abante
Sandi Adams
Lauren Anderson
Linda Apisarnthanrax
Andrea Cody
Amy Fote
Betty Gee
Linda Kuo
Diane Nguyen
Neena Patel
Sarah Valle

Faculty

Janie Yao

Director & Co-Founder

Since 2001, Janie has directed and produced over fifty full scale concerts at the Wortham Center, Hobby Center, Miller Outdoor Theatre, Jones Hall, Stafford Centre as well as on tour. She trained with Houston Ballet and her mother Mitsi Shen. She graduated on full scholarship from the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University in Ballet, Modern, Jazz and Choreography. Janie Yao led 20 dancers to the Quarter Finals of Season 8 of America’s Got Talent’s LIVE performance at Radio City Music Hall in New York City in 2013. Under the direction of Janie Yao, DAA reaches over 50,000 people annually through over 50 free public performances and educational program. DAA also provides advanced training for local dancers in all forms of dance and opportunities to perform live in professional settings. DAA values dance as a tool for educating multi-generational audiences about Chinese history and culture and engage in international exchange to effectively bridge the gap between the east and the west. Visit our website today to find out about our amazing free performances and educational programs or book us for an event. In 2009, DAA was select as one of the 11 best dance companies in Houston to present the Dance USA’s Showcase – “The Power of Movement” – at The Wortham Center.

Yeeree Bingham

Company Director & Choreographer

Yeri is a Korean dance/modern dance dancer originally from Korea. She started dancing since she was 5 years old. She graduated from the TOP Art Middle school and High school in Seoul and received a Bachelor's Degree of Dance at Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul Korea. Yeri’s choreography received awards at the Dance and People Choreographic Festival in Korea. She received 2nd Place overall at the Soonchunhyang University International Dance Competition in Seoul as well as the Best Dance Instructor Award at the Now Here Performance Academy.

Nao Kusuzaki

Master Instructor & Choreographer

Nao Kusuzaki is born in Ehime prefecture, Japan, and began her ballet lessons at 3 years old at Yatsuzuka Ballet school. After moving to the U.S. at age 10, she continued her training with The Washington Ballet School and Boston Ballet School. Nao became a member of Corps de Ballet with Boston Ballet in 2001. In 2004 she joined Houston Ballet, and was promoted to Soloist in 2009. She has danced numerous leading roles in both classical and contemporary repertoire. Some of her featured roles include: The Sugarplum Fairy and The Snow Queen in The Nutcracker, Nikiya in La Bayadere, Madame Butterfly in Madame Butterfly, Lilac Fairy in Sleeping Beauty, Odette and Odile in Swan Lake, Jiri Kylian’s Petite Mort, Sinfonietta, and Falling Angels, William Forsythe’s In the Middle Somewhat Elevated, Twyla Tharp’s In the Upper Room, Christopher Wheeldon’s Rush, and Mark Morris’s Pacific. Nao is also active in the Houston community through producing Dance for Hope, a Benefit Concert in response to Japan Earthquake of 2011, co-creating TSURU with Asia Society Texas Center in 2015, and directing and dancing The 45th Anniversary Ballet Performance celebrating Houston and Chiba Sister City Relations, which premiered in July 22, 2017. Nao is Founder of Creative Minds Collaborative Inc., a nonprofit organization which seeks to create meaning across artists, educators, and supporters of the arts.

Amy Fote

Master Instructor & Choreographer

Amy Fote was born in Manitowoc, WI and received her early dance training at the Jean Wolfmeyer School of Dance. She attended performing arts high schools in both Illinois and Michigan before graduating with honors from the Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, FL. The following year she became a trainee with Milwaukee Ballet where she danced for 14 years, rising to the rank of Principal Dancer. During that time, Ms. Fote was invited to guest the title role in Welch's Madame Butterfly with the Royal New Zealand Ballet. The following season she was invited to join Houston Ballet as a first soloist and was promoted to Principal Dancer the following year. She danced with the company for 8 seasons before retiring in 2012. Ms. Fote's repertoire included leading roles in Swan Lake, Romeo & Juliet, Don Quixote, Manon, The Merry Widow, Onegin, Giselle, The Sleeping Beauty, Anna Karenina (featured in the PBS documentary, Dancing Anna Karenina), The Magic Flute, La Fille Mal Gardee, Carmen and Scherezade among others. The diverse repertoire of both Houston Ballet and Milwaukee Ballet afforded Ms. Fote the opportunity to preform works by Sir Kenneth MacMillian, Jiri Kylian, Anthony Tudor, George Balanchine, Nacho Duato , Jerome Robbins, Glen Telly, Choo San Goh, Alonzo King, Christopher Bruce, Ben Stevenson, Christopher Wheeldon, Lynn Taylor-Corbett and Mark Morris.Following her retirement from dancing, Ms. Fote accepted the position of ballet master with Ballet San Antonio. Currently she guest teaches throughout the U.S. and at Houston Ballet, where she teaches both company and academy classes. Her goal is to help young and experienced dancers hone their technique while developing their artistry.

Teresa Flores

Instructor & Choreographer

Maria Teresa Flores Nucamendi is trained in ballet, contemporary, modern and jazz. She joined the ballet studio “Academia Espacio de la Danza” in Mexico City, where she was trained by Bettina Ebert Schneider and Tania Hidalgo Sanchez, under the Royal Academy of Dance program. She received diplomas for her excellency at the annual examinations from the Academy. Flores Nucamendi then attended several summer intensives in Mexico and one in Canada at “Victoria Academy of Ballet.” Currently Flores Nucamendi is at the University of Houston, pursuing a degree in dance with a minor in education.

Dominique George

Instructor & Choreographer

Dominique George is a passionate dance educator and performer with a strong foundation in ballet and modern dance. A Louisiana native, she trained under Sheridan Productions Inc., earning a full scholarship that launched her journey in dance, music, and acting. Dominique holds a BFA in Performing Arts with a concentration in Dance from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Her training includes summer intensives with Nashville Ballet, American Dance Festival, and Ballet Arkansas. She performed with Ad Deum II from Fall 2019 to Spring 2020 and appeared in roles such as demi-soloist in Les Sylphides and corps de ballet in Swan Lake, along with a range of modern and ballet works during her collegiate career. Dominique is dedicated to fostering confidence, creativity, and strong technique in the next generation of dancers.

Angela Hendrickson

Instructor & Choreographer

Angela Hendrickson is a seasoned instructor who has dedicated her career to building her students technique and artistry. As the former Artistic Director of Royal Academy of Fine Arts, she strongly believes in structure and creating a healthy environment for students to grow. She has performed the roles of Snow Queen and Rose in the Nutcracker and Spring Fairy in Cinderella with Clear Lake Metropolitan Ballet to name a few. Her training includes Houston Ballet Academy, Joffrey Ballet Academy, High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, and Alvin Ailey. She choreographs for Pitch Me This Productions and enjoys her time as a guest ballet instructor for various dance conventions and workshops.

Helen Hu

Instructor & Choreographer

A native of China, Helen holds a Master’s degree in Arts Leadership from the University of Houston and has 20 years of professional experience in dance education and choreography. Guided by the belief that “art enlightens life,” Helen combines her rich international experience with local culture to nurture creative and highly skilled artists in the Houston area.She has led teams at national-level dance competitions and performances in China, earning numerous national awards, including multiple “Outstanding Choreographer” and “Outstanding Teacher” titles. She has planned and executed numerous professional dance events, discovering and nurturing talented individuals for China’s dance industry. She has organized over 1000 students for China’s dance grading examinations, with a 100% pass rate, demonstrating remarkable teaching success. Her students have successfully gained admission to top dance institutions in China, such as the Beijing Dance Academy and Xinghai Conservatory of Music, further validating her excellence in education.

Vivian Lee

Instructor & Choreographer

Vivian Lee is a Texan native who grew up training with Emily Yeh at The Love of China School of Dance in Austin. During her college years at MIT, she founded and directed the university’s first 200-member-strong Asian Dance Team (now the largest dance group on campus), danced and choreographed semiprofessionally with Dance Revelasian and OnStage Dance Company, and continued her ballet training at Boston Ballet. She has led several competition teams - spanning Chinese dance, jazz, contemporary, and modern - to numerous awards in both small and large group divisions. Nowadays, Vivian works full time as a licensed mental health therapist and researcher specializing in eating disorders, while continuing to dance and teach with DAA and Houston Met Dance.

Sylvia Ngo

Instructor & Choreographer

Originally from Los Angeles, Sylvia Ngo studied Chinese classical and ethnic minority dances under Shin Yue Wang and the Shin Dance Academy for over 12 years. Sylvia continued her love of the arts in college and performed and showcased choreography with USC’s Repertory Dance Company and USC’s Traditional Chinese Dance Company. When she moved to Houston in 2007, Sylvia knew she would find home in Dance of Asian America.

Victor Reyes

Gymnastics & Acrobatics Instructor

Raised in Houston. Victor comes from a background of martial arts since the age of 5, and then tumbling and acrobatics at 12 years old. Pursuing a passion in teaching and understanding movement, he attended Texas A&M University with a degree in Applied Exercise Physiology. Post graduation, he joined Cirque La Vie as a ground acrobat while coaching gymnastics in the Houston area. With an expertise in ground acrobatics and tumbling, Victor has over 10 years of teaching experience including various artists from competitive cheer, martial arts, ballet, and even Cirque du Soleil artists. Victor has commited to a full time pursuit in developing the next generation of artists and athletes for the Houston area.

Mitsi Shen

International Coordinator & Co-Founder

Mitsi Shen was a former principal dancer and respected teacher of the Shanghai Dance Troupe and Shanghai Dance Academy. She was the Gold Medalist of the Pan-America Competition - Dance Fever - in 1983. Mitsi Shen founded Mitsi Dancing School and ran the school for 31 years (1984-2015), and led the School with Janie Yao to the Quarter Finals of Season 8 of America’s Got Talent’s LIVE performance at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

Academy

Dance of Asian America's affiliated DAA Dance Academy prides itself on developing well-rounded, technically strong dancers. Students, ages 3 and older, receive a strong foundation in ballet, Chinese (Asian) Dance, modern, contemporary, jazz, and more.

2026-2027 Academy Information

We are currently enrolling for the summer 2026 semester, which includes both weekly classes and two weeklong summer dance camps! Please see below for information on registration and key dates.

Key Dates	Date
Last day of summer semester	July 26, 2026
Start of fall semester	August 18, 2026
Asia to the World @ Miller Outdoor Theater	October 17, 2026
25th Anniversary Gala	November 22, 2026
DAA Holiday Party!	December 12, 2026
Last Day of Fall Semester	December 19, 2026
DAA Spring Showcase Recital	May 29, 2027
Click here to view a full calendar!

Chinese (Asian) Dance

In our Chinese (Asian) dance program, students develop not only technical excellence but also a deep appreciation for cultural identity, artistry, and the storytelling traditions behind each dance. We teach a variety of styles across China's 56 ethnic groups and surrounding countries. Through cultural immersion in movement, music, and tradition, dancers meaningfully connect to authentic Chinese classical and folk dance.

Ballet

DAA’s ballet program emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and controlled movement, providing a strong technical base for both beginners and advancing dancers. Through structured training, students develop precision, elegance, and a deep understanding of classical form while cultivating confidence and artistic expression.

Modern/Contemporary

Modern and contemporary dance are dynamic and expressive styles that encourage emotional storytelling through movement. Through guided exploration, dancers learn to connect movement with emotion, rhythm, and narrative. Classes focus on fluid transitions, grounded movement, spatial awareness, and how to express ideas and feelings through powerful and intentional choreography.

Jazz

Jazz is a high energy dance style, giving dancers a versatile foundation alongside ballet and Chinese dance. Students build strength, flexibility, and stage presence while learning to perform with confidence and personality. Classes emphasize clean lines and strong technique, helping dancers develop the control and flair that jazz is known for.

Acro/Gynmastics

Our Acro/Gym program combines the athletic foundations of gymnastics and tumbling. This class challenges students to build power, control, and confidence while safely mastering acrobatic skills that enhance performance versatility. Emphasis is placed on proper form, safety, and injury prevention to ensure dancers grow their skills and confidence.

K-pop

Our K-pop program dives into the sharp, high-impact choreography that defines today's biggest idol groups. Dancers train to hit hard-hitting movements in perfect sync while building the stage presence needed for performance-driven routines. Classes highlight trend-forward choreography, group dynamics, and building confidence.

Competitions

Each year, approximately 40 dances will compete in over 4 dance competitions and achieve numerous TOP OVERALL awards. Through solos, duets, and mini group projects, dancers will refine technique, artistry, and performance quality for the stage while learning choreography at a high level. Classes emphasize discipline, teamwork, and stage presence to prepare students for competition season.

Private Lessons

Private lessons offer personalized, one-on-one instruction tailored to each dancer's individual goals and skill level. Whether refining technique, preparing for an audition, or building confidence in a specific style, students receive focused attention and customized feedback. This individualized setting allows dancers to progress at their own pace while developing a deeper connection to their craft.

Adult Classes

Our adult classes offer a welcoming space for dancers of all backgrounds and experience levels to explore movement, build strength, and learn about the art of Chinese dance. Whether returning to dance after time away or discovering it for the first time, our classes emphasize enjoyment, community, and personal growth alongside building technique and artistry.

Events

Asia to the World 2026

October 17, 2026 @ 7:00pm｜Miller Outdoor Theatre

Join us for a mesmerizing evening of breathtaking artistry featuring premiere works from Asia and beyond. This dynamic production showcases powerful new choreography, innovative movement, and music that beautifully blends Eastern and Western influences. Audiences will be immersed in a vibrant tapestry of color, culture, and storytelling through exquisite costumes, expressive performances, and striking stage design. Asia to the World is more than a dance concert—it is a celebration of heritage, creativity, and connection that will inspire, uplift, and captivate guests of all ages and backgrounds.

More information on Miller's website!

DAA 25th Anniversary Gala

November 22, 2026 @ 6:00pm｜The Royal Sonesta｜(directions)

Dance of Asian America proudly celebrates 25 years of cultural excellence, education, and community impact. Your sponsorship of our anniversary gala directly supports professional performances, youth education, and outreach programs throughout Houston.

Tickets & Sponsorship Information

Click here to view our past events & performances!

Past Events

Dance of Asian America participants in many performances and events every year, ranging from academy showcases, to cultural outreach programs, to large productions at venues such as Miller Outdoor Theatre. Please see below for a sample of some our past events, with accompanying news coverage.

Event	Date	Location	Coverage
DAA Academy Spring Showcase	May 10, 2026	MATCH Box 4	Chinese Times USA \| FD Media

Gallery

City Wide Performances

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Community Educational Programs

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Competitions

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Youth Programs

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Videos

Sponsorships

With the assistance of generous corporations, organizations, individuals, and the time and talents of our selfless volunteers, Dance of Asian America continues to expand its reach to new audiences and future dancers. We truly could not do this without you. All contributions made to DAA are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the IRS under the 501 c-3 tax code. Please fill out the form to the right and we will reach out with more information and payment methods.

Jade Sponsors - $5,000 and up
- Announced as a major sponsor before East Meets West show.
- Large banner of company name next to the stage. (Company provides own banner)
- A table (ten tickets) to DAA Artists Banquet and Honorary Dance Awards presenter
- Company name/logo on 20,000 flyers and 1,000 posters distributed throughout greater Houston and surrounding cities
- Full page COLOR ad on inside front/back cover in BOTH show programs (over 7,000 programs annually)
- 6 Premium Tickets for East Meets West (at will call)Diamond Sponsors - $2,500 and up
- Banner of company name on the rail next to the audience covered seating. (Company provides own banner)
- Six tickets to DAA Artists Banquet and Honorary Dance Awards presenter
- Full page ad for your company in BOTH show programs (over 7,000 programs annually)
- 4 Premium Tickets for East Meets West (at will call)Silver Sponsors - $500 and up
- ¼ page ad for your company in BOTH show programs (over 7,000 programs annually)
- Two ticket to DAA Artists Banquet and Honorary Dancer Awards presenter
- 2 Premium Tickets for East Meets West (at will call)Bronze Sponsors - $200 and up
- Company/Individual name on programs and Company name/link on DAA website
- One ticket to DAA Artists Banquet and Honorary Dancer Awards presenter
- 2 Premium Tickets for and East Meets West (at will call)

Scholarships

Your contribution supports Dance of Asian America in providing over $20,000 in scholarship to over 40 local DAA dancers annually. DAA enrich the lives of dancers with Chinese cultures and traditions embedded in the dances they learn. In turn, these dancers become the ambassadors for the Chinese culture and a more harmonious tomorrow. These scholarships can be made in the loving memory of someone special or for a special occasion. All contributions made to Dance of Asian America are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the IRS under the 501 c-3 tax code. Please fill out the form to the right and we will reach out with more information and payment methods.

Lifetime Scholarship - $20,000
- Payable over 4 years ($5,000 per year)
- Annual Table for 10 at the DAA Scholarship Banquet
- Full page advertisementSenior Company Scholarships - $5,000
- Table for 10 at the DAA Scholarship Banquet
- Full page advertisementJunior Company Scholarships - $2,500
- Table for 10 at the DAA Scholarship Banquet
- 1/2 page advertisementApprentice Company Scholarships - $1,500
- Table for 10 at the DAA Scholarship Banquet
- 1/4 page advertisementGeneral Sponsorship Fund - $5 to $1499
- Scholarship donor names will appear on all performance program books year-round and on DAA’s website.

Volunteer

Dance of Asian America deeply appreciates all of the volunteers that assist in the development and support of our activities, ranging from fundraising to event coordination to graphic design. If you are interested in donating your time, please reach out via this form!

Contact

Studio Address

Chinatown Dunhuang Plaza
9889 Bellaire Blvd. C-335
Houston, TX 77036

We'd love to hear from you!

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Booking

Interested in booking DAA for an event, performance, or outreach initiative?
Please fill out the form below and we will respond to you as soon as possible to coordinate!