Dance Visions: AAPI Stories at the New Festival

A Journey Through Dance and Identity

Joyce Lien Kushner’s journey with dance began in the comfort of her family’s living room as a young girl, where she would twirl in any dress or skirt she could find. Her early fascination with movement and performance led her to dream of dance lessons, but financial constraints made it difficult. Despite this, her passion for dance never waned, eventually leading her to join a dance team in high school and later to found TILTshift Dance, a collective dedicated to supporting dancers, teachers, and choreographers.

TILTshift Dance has grown over the years, evolving from a group of artists working together to a community-focused initiative that provides opportunities for dance artists to cultivate their craft. The organization offers various programs such as OpenLAB, ChoreoLAB, and ChoreoWreck, which are designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation in the dance world. These initiatives have become central to Kushner’s mission of building a supportive and inclusive dance community.

In addition to her work with TILTshift Dance, Kushner is also involved in several other projects. She recently received an 18-month artist residency by the NTC Foundation at Liberty Station in 2024, and she teaches at Lynch Dance Institute and Malashock Dance. She also serves on the board of Disco Riot, further demonstrating her commitment to the arts.

Kushner’s journey into the world of dance was not straightforward. She left professional dance in her late 20s and entered the corporate world. However, at the age of 46, she felt a strong pull back to dance. This return was sparked by watching “So You Think You Can Dance” and being inspired by Amy Yakima’s performance. This experience reignited her passion, leading her to take classes and eventually return to the stage.

Her motivation to create the Asian American Dance Festival stems from her personal experiences as a second-generation Taiwanese American. Growing up in middle-class White neighborhoods during the 1970s and ’80s, she often felt like she didn’t fully belong. The lack of Asian role models in dance deeply affected her, and she wanted to create a space where AAPI artists could share their stories and celebrate their identities.

The festival features a variety of events across different venues, showcasing the diverse experiences of AAPI dancers. The performers come from various cultural backgrounds, ages, and socio-economic statuses, and they practice a wide range of dance forms. Their stories reflect both the joys and challenges of navigating life as part of the AAPI community.

Kushner believes that dance is a powerful form of storytelling that allows individuals to explore their histories, identities, and emotions. Through her work, she aims to connect people through shared experiences and foster empathy and understanding. One of her pieces, “bài bài 拜拜,” explores the relationship between daughters, granddaughters, and great-granddaughters of Asian immigrants, honoring the legacy of their foremothers.

Kushner’s artistic philosophy emphasizes the importance of connection, empathy, and the exploration of human experiences through dance. She believes that dance can help people find solutions to their struggles and build stronger communities. Her work continues to inspire others, and she remains committed to creating spaces where AAPI voices can be heard and celebrated.

One piece of advice that has stayed with her is, “All roads lead to now.” This mantra reflects her belief that every experience, good or bad, shapes who we are today. It is a reminder to appreciate the journey and recognize the value of past experiences.

Kushner’s ideal San Diego weekend involves spending time with her husband and son on the beaches of Del Mar, ideally after a week of intense dancing. It is a simple yet meaningful way to unwind and reconnect with the people she loves.

Through her dedication to dance and community, Joyce Lien Kushner continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of others. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the importance of sharing one’s story.