By Leah Nanako Winkler
In the dead of winter, at the Cherry Blossom Garden, we meet Emi a multiracial Japanese woman, lost and confused in both grief and cultural expectations. Just a few months ago, Emi knew exactly what she wanted and got it: A Hot Asian Doctor Husband.
On paper, he was the perfect candidate for Emi, but she pays the cost when he turns out not exactly as she imagined. Suddenly her ancestors, her legacy, and culture are all at stake. This hilariously contemporary and honest play explores the multi-racial experience. Lost in between her personal responsibility to carry on the culture passed down from her Japanese mother and her inability to control the cultural identity of the one she loves; this wry, award-winning play by Leah Nanako Winkler is a coming-of-age story beautifully woven with humor, emotion, and memories.
CREATIVE:
Directed by Daniella Wheelock
Stage Manager: Mandy Peterson
Lighting Designer: Chaz Gentry
Sound Designer: Matt Steinsberg
Set Designer: Tonya Power
Costume Designer: Wendy Fox
Props Design: Zoe Clifford
Dramaturg: Jason Haskins
CAST:
Lily Yasuda as Emi
Jake Atkinson as Collin
John Wicks as Leonard
Talia Martinez as Veronica
Dave Boutdy as Hot Asian Doctor Husband
Janet Lo as Mother
Aneshia Morishita as Young Emi
Photos by Chaz Gentry