Flower Drum Song @ Palo Alto Players, April 26 - May 12

I'm delighted to be in my first Peninsula engagement with Palo Alto Players production of Roger and Hammerstein: Flower Drum Song, (the 2002 revival version, book by David Hwang). I wanted to share a promotional code of $10 off any regular adult price ticket! Type in FLOWERCAST during purchase at http://www.paplayers.org/buy-individual-tickets  

The code expires on Sunday, April 28 but can be used for ANY performance of FLOWER DRUM SONG (except preview). Tickets simply must be purchased on or before April 28. Preview Night on Friday April 26 at 8pm  - all tickets are just $25. And Final Dress Rehearsal on Thursday April 25 at 8pm is "Pay What You Can Night".

I'm excited about this production directed by Lily Tung Crystal. It's going to be unlike any version before. Yesterday, our cast of 20 took a historical tour led by a local San Francisco resident of Chinatown, Dan Chew to get in insider’s look of what Chinatown was like in the 1950's in the location and time Flower Drum Song takes place. Flower Drum Song (originally titled Grant Avenue) is based on a novel written by C.Y. Lee, a Chinatown resident, immigrant, and journalist in the 1950's. The novel became a bestseller in 1957 was was adapted into the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical opening in 1958. The original production was the first Broadway show to feature Asian American players.  Flower Drum Song has a special place in my heart. Growing up, the 1961 movie version starring Nancy Kwan was one of the few things I saw on TV with people that looked like me, a rare experience. The story is also relevant in today's political climate when immigration is threatened and American identity is constantly questioned. Hope to see you there.