Celebrate Dance and Community at sjDANCEco's Spring DANCE Festival in San Jose

This April, sjDANCEco is bringing the joy of movement to the forefront with their annual Spring DANCE Festival at Eastridge Center. This free, two-day celebration is part of Bay Area Dance Week, and it’s an invitation to everyone—locals, visitors, dancers, and dreamers—to experience the vibrant arts scene that makes San Jose so special.

A Weekend of Dance for All

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 12 Noon to 5:00pm. Held at Eastridge Center Mall (2200 Eastridge Loop, San Jose, CA 95122), this festival transforms the main level into a stage for dozens of choreographers and dance groups from across the Bay Area. Whether you’re there to watch or to join in, there’s something for everyone.

The schedule is packed with excitement. Starting at 1:30pm, professional dance groups will perform 15-minute segments every half-hour, showcasing styles that range from contemporary and hip-hop to traditional African and Mexican folk dances. Want to try it yourself? Free dance classes kick off every hour on the hour, offering a chance to step into the rhythm and connect with others. It’s all free, open to all ages, and a perfect way to spend a spring weekend.

A Showcase of Talent and Diversity

The festival lineup is a dazzling reflection of the Bay Area’s cultural richness. You’ll see performances from professional companies like HH Lin Dance Company, Los Lupeños de San José, Latizmo Hip Hop Productions Dance Company for All Abilities, and N’fungola Sibo African Dance and Drum. These groups bring a mix of precision, passion, and inclusivity to the stage, celebrating the many voices that shape our region.

Beyond the pros, dance groups from cities like Campbell, Hollister, Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Manteca, and Walnut Creek will also perform. From young kids taking their first leaps to seasoned dancers, the festival highlights the talent and heart of communities near and far. It’s a beautiful reminder of how dance unites us across generations and geographies.

A Highlight of Bay Area Dance Week

This isn’t just a San Jose event—it’s a cornerstone of Bay Area Dance Week (April 25 - May 4, 2025), a regional celebration of movement. As the San Jose Mercury News once put it, “Among the most notable participants is sjDANCEco, which turns its Bay Area Dance Week event into a full-blown San Jose celebration.” This festival shines a spotlight on the diversity and dynamism of our local dance community, making it a must-see for anyone who loves the arts.

Meet sjDANCEco

At the heart of it all is sjDANCEco, a San Jose-based contemporary dance company that’s been igniting the spirit of dance for over two decades. Known for producing world premieres and presenting a mix of contemporary, classic modern, and American Modern Dance masterpieces, they’re a year-round force in the arts. This festival marks the kickoff of their 21st season, a milestone that underscores their deep roots and commitment to our city.

Come Join the Fun

The Spring DANCE Festival is more than just performances—it’s a chance to connect. Bring your friends, your family, or just yourself, and head to Eastridge Center. Catch a show, try a class, or simply soak in the energy of a community coming together through dance. The stage is easy to find on the main level of the mall, so swing by between shopping or make it your weekend destination.

This event thrives thanks to supporters like San Jose Downtown, Applied Materials, SVCreates, City of San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs, Rotary Club of Los Gatos, City of San Jose, Leo M. Shortino Family Foundation, Eastridge, and Mission College Santa Clara. Their backing keeps the arts alive and accessible in San Jose.

Your Invitation Awaits

Don’t miss out on April 26 and 27, 2025. Want more details? Check out sjDANCEco’s website.

Blooming Legacy: Celebrating 30 Years of the Heritage Rose Garden in Downtown San Jose

In the heart of Downtown San Jose, a hidden gem has flourished for three decades, blending history, community, and the timeless allure of roses. The Heritage Rose Garden, a cornerstone of our city’s botanical legacy, is marking its 30th anniversary this spring with a celebration that promises to delight and inspire. On Saturday, April 5th, 2025, from 10:30am to 12:30pm, the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy (GRPC) invites you to join in the festivities—a vibrant tribute to a space that’s as much about people as it is about petals.

Since its planting in March 1995, the Heritage Rose Garden has grown into the largest public rose collection in the Western hemisphere, boasting over 2,600 varieties and 2,700 planted roses. What began as a muddy, rain-soaked effort by over 750 volunteers has blossomed into a city-block-sized oasis, with rose varieties donated from gardens worldwide. As Elizabeth Loretto, GRPC Board President, beautifully states, “The Heritage Rose Garden is a testament to the community champions, local heroes, and the culture of volunteerism that shaped San Jose and the history of the Guadalupe River Park.”

The anniversary event, held at 438 Coleman Ave., San Jose, CA 95110, is designed for all ages. Expect local music filling the air, delicious catered treats from Smashing Dishes, and rose-bodied activities that bring the garden’s story to life. You’ll hear from elected officials like Supervisor Betty Duong and San Jose District 6 Councilmember Michael Mulcahy, alongside former District 3 Councilmember David Pandori, long-time volunteers, and GRPC leaders. Want to get your hands dirty? Join the volunteer workday at 9:30am before the main event, or mark your calendar for the weekly volunteer sessions every Saturday from 8:30-11:30am. It’s a chance to connect with the soil and soul of San Jose.

This celebration isn’t just a nod to the past—it’s a rallying cry for the future. The GRPC is spotlighting the ongoing needs of the Heritage Rose Garden and Guadalupe River Park, from better irrigation to more park rangers. Recent upgrades like restored signage, a refreshed storage shed, and new trellises show what’s possible when the community comes together. Jill Perry captures this forward-looking pride: “We are so proud of what we have accomplished in the last 30 years, and still believe in its potential. It’s more important than ever that public support for the Heritage Rose Garden is strengthened and unwavering.”

Thanks to supporters like bXp, Applied Materials, and Western Digital, this event is blooming with possibility. You can even pre-order a limited-edition commemorative poster to take home a piece of the celebration. For all the details—event info, poster pre-orders, or how to volunteer—head to www.grpg.org.

Celebrate San Jose’s Vibrant Culture at San Jose Day 2025

San Jose is a city alive with creativity, diversity, and community spirit—and there’s no better way to soak it all in than at San Jose Day! Join us on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM at Emma Prusch Farm Park for a free, family-friendly celebration that captures the essence of our city. This year, the event aligns with Viva CalleSJ’s 10th anniversary, doubling the fun and making it a day you won’t want to miss. Ready to dive into the heart of San Jose? Let’s explore what’s in store!

A Tradition Rooted in Community

San Jose Day kicked off back in 2017 as “408 Day,” a scrappy little gathering that’s since grown into one of the city’s most anticipated annual events. Over the years, it’s evolved from a quick idea into a polished festival, even earning a Commendation from the City of San Jose for its role in uniting residents. Organized by Spark Community Productions—a woman-owned 501(c)(3) nonprofit—this event shines a spotlight on local talent and the cultural richness that defines our city. It’s a testament to how San Jose keeps growing, connecting, and thriving.

What’s Happening at San Jose Day 2025?

Held at Emma Prusch Farm Park, a lush oasis with wide-open spaces and a warm, welcoming vibe, San Jose Day 2025 promises a lineup that’ll delight attendees of all ages. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Live Art and Music: Local artists and musicians will fill the park with energy, showcasing San Jose’s creative pulse through performances and hands-on art experiences.
• Food Galore: From food trucks to local vendors, you’ll taste the flavors that make San Jose a culinary standout—think everything from comfort classics to bold new bites.
• Classic Cars: Car enthusiasts will love the display of vintage rides, a nod to the city’s deep-rooted appreciation for craftsmanship and history.
• Family Fun: With activities designed for kids and adults alike, it’s a day the whole family can enjoy together.

Best of all? It’s completely free! San Jose Day opens its arms to everyone, proving that the city’s best experiences don’t need a price tag.

Pair It with Viva CalleSJ

On the same day, Viva CalleSJ celebrates its 10th year by turning 6 miles of streets—from Downtown San Jose to the East Side—into a car-free adventure. Walk, bike, or skate your way through vibrant neighborhoods, then cap off your journey at San Jose Day. It’s a fantastic chance to explore the city’s dynamic streets before settling into the festival’s welcoming atmosphere at Emma Prusch Farm Park.

Why San Jose Day Matters

This isn’t just another event—it’s a celebration of the people who make San Jose special. From the artists pouring their hearts into their work to the families coming together under the sun, San Jose Day reflects the city’s diversity, resilience, and forward momentum. Whether you’ve called San Jose home for decades or you’re just passing through, this day will leave you with a renewed love for our community and all it has to offer.

So, grab your loved ones, charge up your excitement, and head to Emma Prusch Farm Park on April 13th. Visit sanjoseday.org for more details, and let’s celebrate San Jose together!

Streets Alive: Join the Fun at VivaCalleSJ 2025

San Jose is gearing up for one of my favorite events of the year! On April 13, VivaCalleSJ will transform miles of city streets into a car-free celebration of community, movement, and fun. This free event invites everyone—whether you’re walking, biking, skating, or just soaking in the vibes—to explore San Jose in a way that’s fresh, active, and full of life.

VivaCalleSJ (pronounced Vee-Va Ka-Ye SJ) shuts down streets to traffic, opening them up for residents to rediscover the city. Imagine strolling through historic neighborhoods, pedaling past local landmarks, or gliding along with friends, all while music fills the air and local art pops up around every corner. It’s a chance to see San Jose’s diversity and energy up close, from Downtown San Jose to hidden gems along the route.

What sets this event apart is how it brings people together. Families, neighbors, and newcomers alike share in the joy of a day built around connection and healthy fun. Local vendors dish out delicious eats, performers keep the energy high, and the best part? It’s open to all, no cost required.

Mark your calendar for April 13, and come experience it for yourself! Bring your crew, pack some snacks, or try something new like skating through the streets. Check out vivacallesj.org for more details.

Tech at Nite: San Jose’s Techy Night Out Returns!

The Tech Interactive is gearing up for another unforgettable Tech at Nite event on Thursday, April 3rd, from 7:00 to 11:00 PM. This 21+ nightlife experience is the perfect way to explore a different side of San Jose's most techy museum, right in the heart of Downtown San Jose at 201 S. Market St. If you’re looking for a night that blends science, local creativity, and a vibrant social scene, this is it!

Tech at Nite transforms The Tech Interactive into an adults-only playground. Expect a DJ dance party with beats curated by Universal Grammar, hands-on "Science of Spring" activities like crafting with pressed flowers or blending your own botanical scents, and a fermentation workshop with Fox Tale Fermentation Project. Plus, you can sip on local flavors while mingling with makers and innovators from our community. It’s a chance to explore the museum after hours, connect with Downtown’s nightlife, and see why San Jose is a hub of inspiration.

Tickets are $35 online or $45 at the door, with a special $30 rate for college students (just bring your student ID). The first 250 attendees get a free glass of wine donated by San Jose's own J. Lohr Vineyards. Parking is a breeze with $5 validated spots at nearby lots, or hop off the Light Rail at the Convention Center Station steps from the entrance. Start your night here, then wander into Downtown San Jose to keep the fun going!

San Jose shines brightest when we celebrate our unique blend of tech and culture. Tech at Nite is more than an event—it’s a taste of what makes our city special. Grab your tickets and join the party!

Purr-fect Fun Awaits at San José Cat Day on March 22!

On Saturday, March 22, from 12 PM to 6 PM, Downtown San Jose will transform into a feline paradise for the first-ever San José Cat Day. This event is a collaboration between the San Jose Downtown Association, SJMADE, MOMENT, and Mini Cat Town, and it’s set to be the ultimate celebration of all things kitty. Whether you’re a proud cat parent or just someone who can’t resist a good purr, this is the place to be!

The event features a Cat-Themed Vendor Market buzzing with over 20 local artists, makers, and illustrators, all showcasing their creative, cat-inspired goodies. From quirky artwork to handmade treasures, you’ll find plenty of unique items to bring a little feline flair into your life. There’s a Kitten Lounge hosted by Mini Cat Town where you can snuggle up with adorable, adoptable kittens. (Pro tip: reserve your spot in advance for some one-on-one cuddle time—walk-ins are limited.)

The fun unfolds outdoors at MOMENT San Pedro Square (60 N. San Pedro Street), right in the heart of Downtown San Jose. But wait, there’s more! Head over to MOMENT Japantown (208 Jackson Street) for Forever Garf, an original art show featuring Garfield-themed works from over 20 artists. You can snag some of this art on a “cash and carry” basis—buy it, take it home, and let Garfield rule your walls. Plus, the first 1,000 attendees at the art show score a free Garfield sticker by the talented poster illustrator @coco.choon.

And don’t miss the special giveaway at MOMENT Paseo (112 Paseo de San Antonio)—the first 1,000 folks to stop by the SJ Cat Day Booth will grab an 8.5" x 11" art print of this year’s San José Cat Day poster (minus the event info), also by @coco.choon. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the day and show off your San Jose pride.

Admission is free and parking is easy (check out parksj.org, or just use the San Pedro Square Garage with 90min of free parking). It's a great opportunity to support local creators and kitten rescue efforts, so a win-win for everyone.

Get Ready to Connect at Content Magazine’s Pick-Up Party 17.2 in Downtown San Jose

San Jose is buzzing with creativity, and there’s no better way to dive into the city’s vibrant cultural scene than by attending Content Magazine’s Pick-Up Party for Issue 17.2, themed “Connect.” Mark your calendars for Friday, March 14, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, because this event is happening at one of our city’s most stunning venues—The Rotunda at San Jose City Hall. If you’re passionate about local stories, art, and community, this is an evening you won’t want to miss!

The Content Magazine Pick-Up Party is more than just a chance to grab your copy of the latest issue—it’s a celebration of the people and ideas that make San Jose so special. Issue 17.2, “Connect,” shines a spotlight on inspiring locals like Vân-Ánh Võ, Vinh G. Nguyen, and Linda Le (aka @VampyBitme), whose stories of creativity and connection are captured beautifully in the magazine’s pages. With writers like William Jeske, Esther Young, and Vanessa Lara, and photographers like Jason Lew, Daniel Garcia, and Slim Summers bringing these narratives to life, this issue is a love letter to the South Bay’s dynamic spirit.

The event is free to attend, but you’ll need to RSVP via Eventbrite to secure your spot. Want to snag a copy of Issue 17.2? You can pre-order it here and pick it up at the party. It’s the perfect way to support local journalism while connecting with others who call San Jose home.

San Jose City Hall’s Rotunda is an architectural gem that perfectly embodies the blend of history and innovation that defines our city. Hosting the Pick-Up Party here is a reminder of how Downtown San Jose continues to evolve into a hub for creativity and connection. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this event offers a chance to meet the movers and shakers featured in Content Magazine and discover why San Jose is a city worth celebrating.

So, grab a friend, RSVP today, and join us on March 14 for an evening of inspiration and camaraderie. Let’s toast to the stories that unite us and the future we’re building together in San Jose. See you at The Rotunda!

Get Ready to Run Green: The 2025 San Jose Shamrock Run is Coming!

Hey, San Jose fam! It’s time to dust off those running shoes, grab your favorite green gear, and get ready for one of the most festive events of the year—the 2025 San Jose Shamrock Run! Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 15, because this isn’t just a race; it’s a full-on St. Patrick’s Day party that’s taking over downtown San Jose, and you won’t want to miss it.

Picture this: thousands of runners decked out in shamrocks and leprechaun hats, pounding the pavement through the heart of our city. Whether you’re a seasoned 10K champ, a casual 5K stroller, or bringing the little ones for the Kid’s Leprechaun Chase, there’s something for everyone. The race kicks off at San Pedro Square Market, a spot that’s already buzzing with energy, and winds through our vibrant streets before finishing with a post-race bash that’s pure San Jose magic.

What makes this event extra special? It’s not just about the run—it’s about community. Every step you take supports the San José–Dublin Sister City Scholarship Program, helping local students connect with their peers across the globe. Plus, you’ll score some awesome swag: a commemorative shirt and medal to show off your Shamrock pride, and if you’re 21+, a free beer with your race bib to toast your victory. How’s that for a win-win?

The post-race party at O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub is where the real fun happens. Think live music filling the air, Irish dancers bringing the spirit of St. Paddy’s to life, and a crowd of happy, sweaty San Joseans celebrating together. It’s the kind of scene that reminds you why this city is so incredible—we know how to work hard, play hard, and come together like nowhere else.

San Jose shines during events like this. The Shamrock Run isn’t just a race; it’s a chance to see our Downtown streets alive with laughter, energy, and that unmistakable Silicon Valley spirit. Whether you’re chasing a personal record or just here for the good vibes, you’ll feel the pride of being part of something bigger—a city that’s always moving forward, one green-clad step at a time.

So, lace up, sign up, and let’s make the 2025 San Jose Shamrock Run the best yet! Head over to sanjoseshamrockrun.com for all the details and to snag your spot.

Splash into Spring at Holi Fest 2025 in San Jose

San Jose is gearing up for one of the most vibrant and joyous events of the year—Holi Fest 2025! Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 15th, because this is your chance to dive into a celebration bursting with color, music, and community spirit right in the heart of our city. Hosted by the Association of Indo Americans (AIA), the festival will take place from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Discovery Meadow, transforming downtown San Jose into a kaleidoscope of fun and festivity.

If you’ve never experienced Holi, prepare to be amazed. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi is a Hindu tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the power of unity and love. Picture this: thousands of people—friends, families, and newcomers alike—laughing and dancing as clouds of vibrant colored powders fill the air. It’s a sensory explosion that’s as beautiful to witness as it is fun to join in. And in San Jose, we’re taking it to the next level with what’s billed as the largest Festival of Colors in downtown!

What can you expect at Holi Fest 2025? For starters, the beats of Bollywood dance music will keep your feet moving all day long. Live performances will light up the stage, showcasing the energy and talent that make our city’s cultural scene so special. There’ll be an electric dance floor where you can let loose, plus plenty of food stalls serving up delicious eats to keep you fueled for the festivities. Whether you’re tossing handfuls of gulal (colored powder) or savoring a tasty treat, every moment promises to be unforgettable.

Discovery Meadow, located at 180 Woz Way, is the perfect spot for this celebration. It’s a beautiful, open space that’s easily accessible and right in the thick of downtown San Jose. Bring your crew, wear clothes you don’t mind getting colorful, and get ready to make memories.

San Jose shines brightest when we come together to celebrate our diversity, and Holi Fest is a perfect example of that spirit in action. Whether you’re a Holi veteran or a first-timer, this event welcomes everyone with open arms—and plenty of color! Tickets are available now through Eventbrite, so grab yours and get ready to be part of something truly special. Let’s make March 15th a day to remember as we paint the town—literally—in every shade of joy.

Big events coming to San Jose in 2025

SJ Today has a list of major events coming to San Jose this year. These include the Lunar New Year Tet Festival, Friend Fest, Cinequest Film Festival, SubZERO, FoodieLand, Summer Jazz Fest, and many other. Most of the big ones start in February. Check it out at the link below.

Source: SJ Today

ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Conference in San Jose

San Jose is aiming to become a major player in the AI space and part of that is hosting major AI-related events. Earlier this year, Nvidia hosted their largest annual conference in San Jose and they have already booked the McEnery Convention Center again for 2025.

This week the ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle conference is coming to San Jose and will host a variety of speakers from companies like Waymo. Self-driving cars aren't coming, they are already here thanks to the latest innovations in AI.

The event is taking place this Wednesday and Thursday at the Convention Center. If you're interested in learning more, you can register for this conference for free over here.

Viva CalleSJ - April 21st

This week has been insane, so today I just have a quick teaser for an upcoming post. Viva CalleSJ is one of my absolute favorite San Jose events and it's back April 21st. It also happens to run through one of my favorite Downtown districts, SoFA. More on this next week!

San Jose Jazz's Summer Fest 2023 Guide

SJ Today has a handy guide for anyone interested in attending Summer Fest this weekend. Running from August 11-13th, it's the largest Jazz event in San Jose and is one of the largest and best Jazz festivals in the US. It features over 100 performances across eight different stages and supplemental events that will let you party all night long.

To see a great summary of the event, head over here.

San Jose has the largest share of Vietnamese restaurants in the country and exciting projects to come

I believe San Jose has the largest Vietnamese community of any city in the US. At the County-level, it is only second to Orange County down south. However, despite having a slightly smaller Vietnamese population than Orange County (180k vs. 120k in here), Silicon Valley has the highest concentration of Vietnamese restaurants in the US. 6% of all restaurants in Santa Clara County are Vietnamese, featuring some of my favorite foods like pho, banh mi, and other delicacies.

SJ Today has great guides for both the top Pho and Banh Mi shops in San Jose. There are also lots of other types of restaurants featuring spicy Bun Bo Hue and Nuoc Mia (sugarcane juice) that you can find throughout San Jose.

The strength of the Vietnamese community here is one of the reasons why there is a proposal on the table to build a 260,000 SQFT Vietnamese indoor market modeled after a Ho Chi Minh City landmark (image below) where Sears used to be in Eastridge. It would be called Hello Ben Thanh Indoor Market and would have a combination of retail stores, massive food courts with as many as 50 booths, an entertainment center, and banquet hall. The project would take over both floors of the old Sears building. Think of it as a Vietnamese version of Eataly that will be accessible from both inside and outside the mall.

There is no formal ETA, but the developer Intelli has already secured the space for $24.8 million.

Source: The Merc, NextShark

Wedding venues in San Jose

SJ Today has a great guide on wedding venues in San Jose. It takes a quirky kind of couple to consider the Winchester Mystery House, but that is one of the options on the list. See their recommendations over here.

San Jose Sticker Fest 2023

Love stickers? You won't want to miss Sticker Fest 2023, a two-day event that celebrates all things stickers. Sticker Fest 2023 will feature over 150 artists, makers and creators who will showcase their unique and amazing stickers, as well as other products. You'll also enjoy a special nostalgia themed photo booth, activities and activations that celebrate sticker culture, and free admission and parking. The first 1,000 attendees each day will receive a free Sticker Fest 2023 Sticker Pack.

Sticker Fest 2023 will take place this weekend, June 24-25 at Westgate Shopping Center in San Jose, CA. The event venue is located next to Tuxedo Warehouse at 1600 Saratoga Ave #403, San Jose, CA 95129. The event will run from 11 AM to 5 PM each day and is open to all ages. Service animals only.

Don't miss this opportunity to discover new stickers, support local artists and makers, and have fun with fellow sticker enthusiasts. For more information, visit https://www.sanjosemade.com/pages/sticker-fest-2023 or follow @sanjosemade on Instagram.

Champions of Magic - Contest Winner

Congratulations to David Gauthier! 🥳🎊

You have won 4 tickets for the internationally renowned show Champions of Magic. 

For those that did not win, you can still purchase tickets over here.

Champions of Magic Giveaway

As mentioned last week, the internationally renowned show Champions of Magic is doing five performances at the San Jose Civic from Dec. 27 to 29. You can buy tickets right now over here starting at $69 per person... but you might be able to get those tickets for free right now. We are doing a giveaway for four tickets for the December 27th show!

To enter the contest, all you have to do is fill out this form (below is an image of what it looks like), check "San Jose," and mention The San Jose Blog. That's it, should take 30 seconds.

We will keep the contest open for a week and then announce the winner next Friday!

Illusionist show coming to San Jose for the holidays + Giveaway

The internationally renowned show Champions of Magic is doing five performances at the San Jose Civic from Dec. 27 to 29. The show is led by a team of five illusionists that have been featured on every major US TV network. The acts take place around the whole theater and include interactive magic, levitations, several illusions that can't be seen anywhere else, and an epic finale. 

It's an ideal family-friendly activity for the holiday season and will pair well with Christmas in the Park across the street.

You can buy tickets right now over here starting at $69 per person. We are also going to do a giveaway for four tickets next week! Keep your eyes peeled for further details early next week on how to enter the giveaway.

Theater is back with "The Great Leap" @ The San Jose Stage Company

Program cover of The Great Leap at The San Jose Stage Company.

Manford (James Aaron Oh) making a basketball shot as
Wen Chang (Alex Hsu), Connie (Monica Ho), and
Saul (Tim Kniffin) watches at a distance on the court.
Photograph courtesy of Dave Lepori.

Randall King, the Artistic Director of The San Jose Stage Company, announced that "theater is back!" Yes it is and what a surreal feeling when I realized that the last time I saw a show at The San Jose Stage Company was the musical Chicago in February 2020. Oh, how great it feels to be back in the theater again ... safely!

Kicking off their 39th Season "Resilience" is Lauren Yee's play The Great Leap. Following four characters, an American basketball team travels to Beijing for a "friendship match" in 1989. There is much more to this "friendship" than meets the eye: a deep, yet strained, relationship between the two countries bringing the characters into a collision course. The most common line that shows how deep this "friendship" really goes: "no Chinese team will ever beat an American team."

The set of The Great Leap at The San Jose Stage Company.
Photograph courtesy of John Huân Vu.

On a beautiful and minimal stage centering around a basketball court, we follow two storylines eighteen years apart. This split timeline highlights two major points in our history: renewed relations between the United States and China and the Tiananmen Square protests in Beijing, China.

In the past timeline of 1971, we meet the American University of San Francisco basketball coach Saul (played by Tim Kniffin) who convinces a Chinese translator, Wen Chang (played by Alex Hsu), to a "friendship match" that will be played 18 years later in 1989. While in the present timeline of 1989, we follow 17-year-old Chinese-American Manford (played by James Aaron Oh) who pesters coach Saul to play in the "friendship match" against Beijing University. We also meet Connie (played by Monica Ho) who is a university student and is Manford's loving "cousin".

Saul (Tim Kniffin) and Wen Chang (Alex Hsu)
converses on the basketball court in 1971.
Photograph courtesy of Dave Lepori.

Without sharing the details of the story, each of the actors bring a unique dichotomy to their characters delivering comedic relief towards a dramatic, unexpected, and satisfying climax!

When we first meet Saul in 1971, he is an ambitious and confident coach but now struggles personally and professionally in 1989. Ironically, Wen became the opposite of Saul where Wen was a "nobody" in China in 1971 and is now one of the more influential citizens in the country in 1989. Although Manford started out very obnoxious and arrogant, you come to love him when you realize this kid never gives up - especially if it's for the right reason. Lastly, Connie is an extravagant and straight-to-the-point girl but works to embody that family love that was truly missing from Manford's life.

Manford (James Aaron Oh) confronted by his "cousin"
Connie (Monica Ho) on why he's not at school.
Photograph courtesy of Dave Lepori.

Personally, I was very impressed by Tim Kniffin where his body language spoke as loud as his words. As for Alex Hsu, it was personally so great to see him back on stage after last seeing him a decade ago fabulously acting in the musical Tales of the City at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. Although I can't play basketball (or any sports) for the life of me, I really appreciate seeing that James Aaron Oh took the time to study up the sport so he can deliver a solid performance on stage. Lastly, the range that Monica Ho delivers during this play foreshadows that she's an actress I'd be on the lookout for in future performances.

Overall, the show delivers a great story through the impressive dramatic and comedic performances of the actors to show that indeed, "theater is back!" Please note that heavy language is used and may not be suitable for all audience members.

Wen Chang (Alex Hsu) facing the tanks at Tiananmen Square.
Photograph courtesy of Dave Lepori.

Catch a performance from Wednesdays through Sundays now until October 24, 2021. You can purchase tickets online at The San Jose Stage Company website at www.thestage.org or at their box office at 490 South First Street, San Jose, CA 95113, (408) 283-7141. Discount tickets are available for students and seniors. To ensure the health and safety of the cast, staff, and those attending, please note that you must adhere to their safety protocols which also includes a proof of vaccination.

Written by John Huân Vu, edited by Greg Ripa.