Chinese American Bear

About the Artist

Chinese American Bear’s live performances are a vibrant fusion of eclectic sounds and cultural celebration, transforming each venue into a jubilant dance party reminiscent of a neon-lit Beijing night market. The Seattle-based duo, comprising married couple Anne Tong and Bryce Barsten, seamlessly blend Mandarin and English lyrics, crafting a unique “mando-pop/rock” experience that resonates with a diverse audience. Their shows are renowned for their playful theatrics—backup dancers donning dumpling and bear costumes, plush boba tea toys tossed into the crowd, and impromptu Mandarin lessons that invite audience participation. Anne, a classically trained pianist, and Bryce, who grew up on a llama farm in Spokane, Washington, infuse their performances with a lightheartedness that belies their meticulous musicianship. Fans fondly recall their first show at Seattle’s Sunset Tavern, where the duo’s infectious energy and whimsical stage presence, including dancing in toy bear heads and dumpling costumes, captivated the audience and set the tone for their future performances. It’s this blend of musical prowess and unbridled joy that makes attending a Chinese American Bear concert less of a passive experience and more of an invitation to a cross-cultural celebration where everyone, regardless of background, feels like part of the family.