The Asian American Ballet Project presents Once Upon Our Time, a concert of four original ballets inspired by Asian folktales. Performed by an all–Asian American cast, the program brings to life stories many audience members grew up hearing, now shared on a professional stage through ballet and live music. The production features both returning works and a world premiere, with collaborations from Asian American choreographers and composers.

The program includes the revival of three AABP original ballets and one world premiere. The concert also features live musical collaborations with Asian American composers, offering audiences a distinctly Asian American artistic experience both visually and sonically. The four ballets include:

Suho and the White Horse
Choreographed by Michael Lowe for AABP in 2023, this ballet draws from the Mongolian origin story of the morin khuur, or horsehead fiddle. The work follows a shepherd boy and his beloved white horse, exploring sacrifice, loss, and how music carries the soul across generations. For the 2026 production, the ballet will feature seven local children in newly added roles and expanded choreography.

Gabi sa Gubat / Night Jungle
Choreographed by Alexa Capareda for AABP in 2025, the expanded 2026 version brings to life creatures from Philippine folklore, including the White Lady, duendes, tikbalang, aswang, and manananggal. Set in a forest at night, the ballet reflects on the magnetism of shared cultural mythologies and how they capture the human psyche.

Lon Po Po
Choreographed by Adrienne Chan for AABP in 2024, this ballet is based on the Chinese folktale widely considered the original Little Red Riding Hood. Updated for 2026 with new choreography, costumes, and scenery, the work explores responsibility, sisterhood, and survival. The ballet features live quartet music by composer Julian Gau.

Tấm Cám
A 2026 world premiere choreographed by company dancer Lauren Huynh, this Vietnamese Cinderella story marks Lauren’s choreographic debut with AABP. Lauren will set the ballet on 4 AABP company dancers, 1 guest performer, and 8 local children. Featuring original live piano music by composer Christopher Vu, the ballet centers on morality, nature, and resilience.