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Afsaneh Art & Culture Society

From the historic crossroads of Eurasia to the intersecting diversity of a new America, Afsaneh Art & Culture Society programs present an eloquent testament to the unique Central Asian expressive arts. Our organization is an important focal point for the dissemination of Central Asian culture and the participatory cultural arts of the Bay Area Iranian- and Afghan-American communities. We endeavor to educate and promote understanding of these diverse and enduring cultures, inspiring people through the presentation of both traditional and new artwork.

AACS was originally founded in 1986 as a performing arts ensemble, Ballet Afsaneh, by Director Sharlyn Sawyer, and assumed nonprofit 501c3 status in 1991. Over its twenty-year history, in response to the needs of the community, the organization’s mission has evolved and broadened in scope. AACS seeks to enhance the visibility of the Central Asian community and enrich the cultural offerings of the Bay Area by providing exemplary family oriented educational programs and publications of dance, music, language and visual arts. In addition to the professional performance ensemble, Ballet Afsaneh, AACS programming now includes; the Alborz Academy, a Farsi language and integrated arts program, The Tajik Dance Initiative cultural exchange program based in Central Asia, and sponsored programs such as The Translation Project and Nejad World Music Center. Ballet Afsaneh, the organization’s critically acclaimed professional performance ensemble, presents a broad spectrum of culturally specific expressive arts, both traditional and contemporary, of Central Asia. Presenting programs at major theaters, cultural festivals, museums and universities throughout the U.S., AACS has received numerous achievement awards. Programs are supported in part by grants from the California Arts Council, the James Irvine Foundation, Community Foundation Silicon Valley, The Christensen Fund, San Francisco Grants for the Arts, Marin Arts Council, and through the generous contributions of many generous individuals.

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  Afsaneh Art & Culture Society

  
  San Jose, CA

  Phone: 415-488-0944

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