This critically acclaimed, San Francisco Bay Area based performance ensemble presents the dance, music and poetry of the historic Silk Road networks of Eurasia.
Supporting Central Asian Expressive Arts, Education and Innovation.
Ballet Afsaneh presents dance, music, and poetry inspired by the Silk Road’s rich artistic traditions. Afsaneh is a word shared across many Silk Road languages meaning “legend” or “mythic story,” reflecting the company’s commitment to storytelling through movement and performance.
This critically acclaimed San Francisco Bay Area–based ensemble honors the living cultural heritage of the region through folkloric and classical dances from Iran, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Turkey, China, and India. Alongside traditional repertoire, Ballet Afsaneh creates contemporary works that weave ancient art forms with modern dance and theater in a uniquely rich and imagistic style.
Through its performances, the company seeks to foster connection, empathy, and cultural understanding, sharing the beauty, resilience, and humanity of Silk Road cultures with diverse audiences. Ballet Afsaneh performs at theaters, festivals, universities, schools, community centers, and special events, touring both nationally and internationally.
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World-Renowned Performances
Ballet Afsaneh is available for concert and event performances, lectures, master classes and other activities.
Afsaneh Dance Academy
Dance is the universal language .... come dance with us! Master artists and performers share their joy and knowledge with students of all ages and backgrounds. Come experience the transforming, creative power of dance and music in all its many forms from Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan and more. Learn online and in-person.
Make a Difference!
If you would like to support our unique work in producing, teaching, and rejuvenating Central Asian expressive arts and communities or, if you have been touched by our performances, youth programs, or international projects, please consider making a direct donation (which is tax deductible) to Afsaneh Art & Culture Society.
“The top tier of Bay Area world dance.”
— Alan Ulrich, Voice of Dance
