Pan Asian Repertory Theatre announces cast of The Emperor's Nightingale
The Emperor's Nightingale begins performances at Theatre Row on November 25, 2018.
Pan Asian Repertory Theatre has now announced complete casting for its upcoming previously announced New York premiere of Damon Chua's The Emperor's Nightingale, directed by Chongren Fan, which begins previews at Theatre Row on November 25, 2018, ahead of an official opening on December 1 and a limited engagement through to December 16, 2018.
The cast includes Leanne Cabrera, Ya Han Chang, Dinh James Doan, Jonathan Frye, Brian Kim, and Roger Yeh.
Synopsis: "The Emperor's Nightingale is an adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's story "The Nightingale," set in 18th-century China, bringing to light the youthful exploits of the future Emperor Qianlong who befriends a magical bird who helps him learn what he must do to be King. The play employs traditional Chinese lion dance, puppetry, and a pair of tigers and pandas to tell this fun, thrilling tale."
Playwright Damon Chua previously commented: "I'm delighted to work with Pan Asian Rep for the New York premiere of this play. The Emperor's Nightingale began its life three years ago when I was commissioned by DC-based Adventure Theater to create a TYA play that marries Hans Christian Andersen's "The Nightingale" with Chinese history. For me, this was an opportunity to create a play with an all-Asian cast to showcase traditional Chinese art forms. The play has been produced in Minneapolis and will have its California premiere next year. Theaters and audiences have been embracing this small window into Chinese culture. Whether young or old, I hope you will be entertained as we explore the issue of what makes a good leader."
The creative team for The Emperor's Nightingale has also been announced and features scenic design by You-Shin Chen, costume design by Karen Boyer, lighting design by Leslie Smith, and sound design by Joseph Wolfslau.
Pan Asian Repertory Theatre's 42nd season also includes the world premiere of Prince Gomolvilas' The Brothers Paranormal next spring.
Synopsis: "The Brothers Paranormal follows two Thai-American brothers who specialize in domestic hauntings. When the siblings investigate the home of an African-American couple displaced by Hurricane Katrina, everyone's notions of reality, fantasy, and sanity clash against the shocking truth."
Directed by Jeff Liu, the play will run at Theatre Row from April 27 through to May 19, 2019, with an official opening set for May 1.
Originally published on