Clarion Performing Arts Center: A Cultural Hub in Chinatown, San Francisco
Located at 2 Waverly Place in San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown, the Clarion Performing Arts Center stands as a beacon of cultural expression and community involvement. Established in 1982 initially as a store for antique musical instruments, the center has evolved into a significant venue promoting diverse artistic talents through drama, poetry, and music in both Cantonese and English.
Leadership and Vision
Under the guidance of executive director Clara Hsu, a noted poet and dramatist, Clarion has expanded its outreach significantly. “I feel I’m riding on a surge of creative energy that is fueled by my friends and my community,” says Hsu. She emphasizes the honor she feels in contributing to the lives of those around her and strives to create enriching experiences through Clarion’s various programs.
Artistic Offerings
The center offers a broad array of events catering to diverse interests:
- Poetry readings in English (e.g., June 15)
- Saturday night jazz performances
- Film screenings and theater productions
- Open mic showcases (next on June 23)
- Monthly potluck gatherings (upcoming on June 8)
- Free Cantonese language lessons
Community Focus
Hsu shows a particular commitment to children from the Chinese-speaking community, especially those from lower-income families. She believes that these children should have access to opportunities comparable to their more affluent peers. “Having a broad worldview will enable them to make intelligent decisions as they grow up,” Hsu remarks.
Theatrical Innovations
In 2021, Hsu introduced a children’s theater program that features classes priced affordably at $5 per session, along with quarterly performances of original skits. Notably, she penned “Death of 3 Composers,” which was performed in 2023.
Additionally, Hsu is behind the upcoming premiere of “Dragon Beard,” which will be the first commercially produced play in Cantonese with English subtitles, showcasing her dedication to her native language and the immigrant experience.
Seniors and the Arts
Clarion also serves as a home for the Grant Avenue Follies, a senior dance troupe predominantly made up of retired educators. This vibrant group pays homage to the history of Chinatown’s entertainment scene through their performances, which blend song and dance with humor and grace. The troupe, established in 2003, promotes not just entertainment but also community celebrations.
Cynthia Yee, the troupe’s leader and president of Clarion’s board, recalls how she discovered Clarion back in 2019 during its search for a new residence. Since then, the Follies have made Clarion their beloved home.
Advocacy and Representation
In addition to cultural performances, the Follies use their platform to address social issues, including anti-Asian sentiment. They created “Gai Mou Sou,” a Cantonese rap that addresses these important themes.
This year, the Follies will perform regularly on the second Friday of each month at the Chinatown night market, bringing lively entertainment to local residents and visitors alike. They are also scheduled to perform at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas and have gained recognition through various media appearances.
Visit Clarion Performing Arts Center
For those interested in experiencing the artistic vibrancy of Clarion Performing Arts Center, visit their official website at theclarionsf.org. The center remains a vital contributor to the social and cultural fabric of Chinatown, fostering creativity and community spirit.
