About | Jing Shao Nian

Our Vision

To be a vibrant and transformative influence in the San Francisco Bay Area, enriching the lives of young people by celebrating the beauty of Chinese opera. Our vision is of a community where kids are inspired, cultural connections are fostered, and the art of Chinese opera flourishes.

Jing Shao Nian (JSN) is an immersive experience into the world of Peking and Cantonese opera, involving performances, martial arts classes, Chinatown field trips, Chinese history lectures, and community service projects.

Our Why

From founder, Julia Howe

Chinese opera is an art form I grew up with, watching on my Grandma and Grandpa's TV when I went over to their house. After the recent resurgence of Chinese Opera among youth, thanks to video games like Genschin Impact, so many kids want to learn more about their cultural heritage and beyond that, perform it. To save this important part of our culture, we need to create more chances for young people to experience and participate in Chinese opera. By promoting it and making it accessible to kids, we can keep this tradition alive. Let's inspire a new generation to appreciate and perform Chinese opera, ensuring that its unique beauty is enjoyed for years to come.

Mission Statement

Preserving Cultural Heritage

Safeguarding the enduring traditions and artistic excellence of Cantonese and Beijing Opera to ensure its legacy continues to thrive.

Empowering Youth

Equipping young individuals with the skills and self-assurance to excel in their performance, enabling them to express themselves and embrace Chinese culture.

Promoting Cross-Generational Understanding

Bridging generations in San Francisco, fostering mutual respect, and celebrating the unique perspectives of all ages.

Cultivating Artistic Passion

Nurturing a lifelong passion for the performing arts by providing accessible and inclusive opportunities for youth to discover, develop, and express themselves creatively.

Co-Founder and Executive Director

Julia Hui-Ming Howe

I’m a 12th grader at Lick-Wilmerding High School and Chinese American International School alumni (‘22.) I was first introduced to Peking Opera while sitting around the TV with my Popo. One of my favorite memories is giving my own “mini-performances” for her before dinner.

Co-Founder and Outreach Coordinator

Samantha Zhi-Mei Morris

I’m a 10th grader at College Preparatory School. I love Chinese Opera because growing up, I’ve always been surrounded by Chinese performing arts and some of my favorite memories have been watching all the performances at Chinese New Year and performing in Chinese dance.

Community Engagement & Social Media Manager

Matthew Xiao-Qi Yan

I'm a 12th grader at Lick-Wilmerding High School. I find it very important to engage communities and students with learning and culture. Learning in the form of art is something I've always enjoyed, so I'm very excited to help this community enhance themselves with Chinese opera!

Student Engagement Leader in Training

Nate Howe

I'm an 8th grader at Chinese American International School. I was a student at Jing Shao Nian in 6th and 7th grade and learned how meaningful Chinese Opera is. I like it because it connects me to my culture, tells me powerful stories, and keeps traditions alive.

Head of Student Engagement

Kai Denmark

I’m a 12th grader at Lick-Wilmerding High School. I want to be able to appreciate this art form and keep it alive as it has a unique and interesting history. Even though culturally I’m not Chinese I think preserving culture and instilling interest in younger people is important.

Outreach & Social Media Manager in Training

Marissa Bastunas

I'm an 8th grader at Chinese American International School. My love for Chinese opera started when Julia created this program and I had joined. I had no idea how amazing and cultural it was until I actually got to experience it myself.

Logistics Coordinator

Elise Chen

I'm an 8th grader at Chinese American International School, where I've been learning Chinese all my life. I remember celebrating Chinese New Year growing up, fascinated by all the legends and history behind the traditions. JSN has helped me learn more about my culture.

Youth in Chinese Opera

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The Issue

The popularity of Chinese Opera has dropped severely since the mid-1900s.
No youth programs in San Francisco and not many in the US.
Chinese opera should be celebrated! The lack of youth vocal programs is a cultural hole.

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What's Changed?

Chinese opera was discouraged during the Cultural Revolution and it's still in decline today.
Genshin Impact released a character that is the director of a Chinese opera company.
This brought attention to the art form and many young adult players have expressed interest in listening to and learning more about Chinese opera.

Our Vision

Our Why

Mission Statement

Meet the Team

Youth in Chinese Opera