Mission Statement

WE PRESENT ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER PERFORMANCES IN THEATER, MUSIC, ARTS, AND FILM TO SILICON VALLEY

At Contemporary Asian Theater Scene (CATS), our mission is to be a catalyst for cultural enrichment by enhancing the vibrant and diverse artistic landscape of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. We are dedicated to showcasing AAPI performing artists of all skill levels and interests. CATS aims to provide platforms for highlighting career professionals, promoting emergent artists and holding spaces where creative expression can be explored by newcomers. We believe in fostering an environment where people’s visions, voices and experiences can be accepted and appreciated.

Today, CATS continues its mission by showcasing and supporting AAPI artists through its rich programming. We are proud to feature such unique events as Asian Comedy Night, Playwright Festival, our CATS’ Staged Readings, Talent to Go, Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival (formerly known as San Jose J-Town FilmFest), as well as many other AAPI film festivals. We build opportunities around inclusion for aspiring performers, filmmakers, writers, musicians and directors, many of whom continue to participate in our programs each year while others may join the ranks of our many volunteers.

We are more than a nonprofit. CATS is a community of AAPI supporters who believe in breaking down cultural barriers. Through the art of expression, we believe that cross-cultural sharing and collaboration can help to establish equal opportunities and strengthen our connections with each other in a way that is positive, enriching and engaging.