THE HISTORY OF COMTEMPORARY ASIAN THEATER SCENE

Who We Are

Contemporary Asian Theater Scene, fondly known as CATS, has been a mainstay in the cultural fabric of San Jose, Silicon Valley, and the county of Santa Clara for almost 30 years. Started by three visionaries who realized that Asian American artists needed a voice, the late Dr. Jerry Hiura, Steve Yamaguma, and Miki Hirabayashi created CATS with the mission of supporting, mentoring, and presenting Asian American artists and cultural disciplines in Santa Clara County.

Our History

CATS has served the Silicon Valley communities since our inception in 1996 and we continue to broaden our reach by showcasing more AAPI artists and performing arts to a growing Asian American community. We've evolved from a truly grassroots 501c3 organization to a highly dedicated and active volunteer Board of Directors that produce numerous programs celebrating Asian American culture and heritage. CATS has cultivated impactful AAPI arts programs, fostering dialogue, camaraderie, and cross-cultural sharing. Over three decades, our initiatives, such as the Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival, creative workshops, concerts, staged readings, and conversations with AAPI artists, have bridged gaps, creating unity, understanding, and acceptance. 

Our Values

CATS is committed to presenting Asian Pacific American arts by providing high quality, thought provoking, educational, and innovative programming which communicates Asian Pacific American experiences to all communities.