History
The Chinese Folk Dance Association (CFDA) traces its roots back to 1959 when it was established by a group of young Chinese American immigrants with a fervent desire to reconnect with their cultural heritage. In 1972, CFDA was officially incorporated as a California Corporation and granted non-profit status, solidifying its commitment to promoting Chinese culture and dance in the San Francisco community.
In its early years, CFDA founders, who arrived in America as teenagers, sought to learn about and engage in the culture they left behind. With limited resources before the era of the Internet, they relied on books to master dances like the Tea Picking Dance and Sword Dance, demonstrating their passion and dedication to preserving traditional Chinese dance forms.
The historic event known as "Ping Pong Diplomacy" in 1972 paved the way for CFDA to access dance materials from films and welcome early arrivals from China, enriching their repertoire and performance capabilities. With enthusiasm, they learned new material and acquired used costumes from visiting Chinese dance troupes on cultural exchange tours. Through their breathtaking performances, CFDA showcased the beauty and diversity of Chinese culture, captivating audiences in large-scale shows, including a milestone performance at the 3000-seat San Francisco Opera House in 1977.
As CFDA matured, the organization grew and expanded its artistic endeavors. Alongside the dance troupe, a Chinese instrumental orchestra and singing group were formed, enriching their performances on both grand and intimate stages across the Bay Area. Invitations to perform in Sacramento, Los Angeles, and historical towns along the Sacramento River further cemented CFDA's status as a respected cultural ambassador.
The pursuit of excellence led CFDA to engage local instructors and esteemed guest instructors from China, including notable dance masters Xu Shu Ying (許淑英) and Huang Bo Shou (黃伯壽). Participation in the SF Ethnic Dance Festival for many years showcased the group's exceptional talent and dedication to promoting Chinese dance on a broader stage.
As members started their own families, they sought to pass on their cultural heritage to the next generation. CFDA responded by adding children's classes taught by professional choreographers and teachers from China, such as Ms. Qian Xiao Ling and Ms. Chu Un Wa. These classes, which began around 1991, marked the beginning of a new chapter in CFDA's commitment to nurturing young talent in Chinese dance and music.
Throughout the years, CFDA continued to actively engage with the San Francisco community. The organization performed in various events and celebrations, including the Spring Festival bazaar and performances at the Chinese Cultural Center in Chinatown. Senior Centers and street fairs also witnessed the mesmerizing performances by CFDA dancers. After the devastating Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989, CFDA initiated an annual dance series at the Culture Center to promote tourism into Chinatown and uplift the community spirit.
To further enhance their artistry, CFDA embarked on multiple trips to China, where they interacted with different dance organizations, learned new dances, and engaged in cultural exchanges. Notably, in 2004, they had a momentous experience performing in Shenzhen, Zhaoqing, and sharing the stage with a local Chinese dance group in the prestigious Zhongshan Memorial Auditorium. Their most recent trip to Chengdu in 2019 yielded seven new dances, a testament to their unwavering commitment to artistic growth and cross-cultural connections.
As CFDA continues to journey forward, the organization remains dedicated to preserving and promoting Chinese culture and dance, nurturing young talent, and enriching the lives of individuals through the captivating art of Chinese folk dance. With a legacy spanning over six decades, CFDA is poised to embrace the future while celebrating the beauty of tradition and diversity in dance.