The cold temperatures outside did little to chill the warmth inside the Carmine Carro Community Center, at 3000 Fillmore Avenue, where the Lunar New Year was celebrated on Saturday, January 24th, with a vibrant showcase of culture, movement and community presented by the Marine Park Alliance (MPA), Assemblywoman Jaime Williams and the acclaimed Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company.
Families packed the room for an interactive performance that brought ancient traditions to life through dazzling costumes, rhythmic storytelling and hands-on audience participation. The dance company captivated attendees with performances rooted in centuries-old Chinese folk traditions, while seamlessly blending modern movement and contemporary flair. The onlookers were also treated to a live musical performance on a traditional Asian bowed string instrument, characteristic of a Morin Khuur–style instrument also known as the Mongolian horsehead fiddle.
“We are proud to support MPA in presenting cultural events such as the Lunar New Year to our community,” Williams said, praising the partnership and the importance of exposing residents — especially young people — to global traditions. “These programs help carry traditions forward and allow children to experience cultures beyond their own.”
Throughout the afternoon, dancers paused between pieces to explain the meaning and history behind each performance, offering insights into symbolism, balance, strength and grace. Children were invited onto the floor to learn basic Chinese dance gestures — including the elegant “orchid hands” and powerful “tiger hands” — drawing smiles, applause and laughter from the audience.
Artistic Director Greta Campo and dancers including Sarah Botero, Lorenzo Guerrini, Madeleine Lee and Michael Zhu guided attendees through movements while emphasizing discipline, patience and years of practice. One dancer explained that concentration and balance are essential, noting that “strength is built through years of repetition.”
MPA Executive Director Scott Middleton thanked the community for turning out despite the frigid winter weather. “Thank you so much to everyone for coming and for supporting free programs like this,” Middleton said, adding that community support allows MPA to continue offering cultural programming year-round. He also reminded attendees of upcoming events, including a Black History Month program on Saturday, February 7th, at 11 a.m.
In the back of the room, tables were stocked with traditional Chinese confections and festive goody bags filled with candy, drinks, activities and Lunar New Year-themed coloring pages celebrating the Year of the Horse.
The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, known for bridging Asian elegance with American modern dance, continues to empower communities through performances that reflect resilience, heritage and the immigrant journey. Their presentation in Marine Park embodied that mission, transforming the Carro Center into a space of connection, learning and joy.
As families lingered after the final bow, and children posed with the dancers and lion, Marine Park’s Lunar New Year celebration was more than a performance — it was a shared cultural experience, ushering in the Year of the Horse with energy, harmony and community spirit.
You can learn more about the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, its dancers, programs and upcoming performances at www.nainichen.org
