Lily Mariye’s Model Minority, Jayshree Janu Kharpade’s Fire in Our Hearts, Eliaichi Kimaro’s A Lot Like You, Vincent Sandoval’s Señorita, and Liang Cheng’s My Spiritual Medicine among AAIFF’12 Award Winners

The Asian American International Film Festival handed out the 2012 Awards for feature and short films before the sold-out closing night screening of Michael Kang’s Knots, written by and starring Kimberly-Rose Wolter, Illeana Douglas, Sung Kang, Mia Riverton, Janel Parrish and Cathy Foy, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. The awards ceremony was emceed by spoken word artist Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai.

Knots director Michael Kang and writer and star Kimberly-Rose Wolter at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival Closing night screening of Knots, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinema in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Knots director Michael Kang and writer and star Kimberly-Rose Wolter at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival Closing night screening of Knots, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinema in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

This year, the Asian American International Film Festival, presented by Asian Cinevision (ACV), featured 50 New York premieres-narrative and documentary features, and shorts-of all genres from The Philippines, Taiwan, China, Japan, Korea, UK, Canada and across the Asian Diaspora.
Presenter Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai, a spoken word artist, presents the AAIFF Audience Choice Award for Narrative Feature to Lily Mariye for Model Minority at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Presenter Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai, a spoken word artist, presents the AAIFF Audience Choice Award for Narrative Feature to Lily Mariye for Model Minority at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Audience Choice Awards:
Lily Mariye's Model Minority (photo courtesy of Nice Girl Films)

Lily Mariye’s Model Minority (photo courtesy of Nice Girl Films)


The Audience Choice Award for Narrative Feature was presented to Lily Mariye, an actor, screenwriter and director, whose impressive debut feature MODEL MINORITY, follows the story of L.A. teenagers trying to navigate the treacherous world of peer pressure, drug dealers, juvenile hall and dysfunctional families.
Delon De Metz, Nichole Bloom, Lily Mariye and Chris Tashima at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival screening of Model Minority, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Delon De Metz, Nichole Bloom, Lily Mariye and Chris Tashima at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival screening of Model Minority, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

The film stars Nichole Bloom as Kayla, an underprivileged Japanese American girl with a drug addict mom (Jessica Tuck) and an alcoholic dad (Chris Tashima), who endangers her promising future as an artist when she becomes involved with a drug dealer (Delon De Metz). Laura Innes, Helen Slater, Takayo Fisher, Courtney Mun and Marc Anthony Samuel are also featured, along with music by three-time Grammy nominee, saxophonist Boney James.
A Model Minority team: Three-time Grammy nominee, saxophonist Boney James shows off his wife’s Audience Choice Award for Narrative Feature for Model Minority, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Mariye, wrote, directed and shares producing credits with James, whose music is featured on the soundtrack. Photo by Lia Chang

A Model Minority team: Three-time Grammy nominee, saxophonist Boney James shows off his wife’s Audience Choice Award for Narrative Feature for Model Minority, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Mariye, wrote, directed and shares producing credits with James, whose music is featured on the soundtrack. Photo by Lia Chang

The film recently garnered three awards at its World Premiere at the 2012 Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival: Special Jury Outstanding Director, Breakthrough Performance by a New Actor for Nichole Bloom, and Outstanding Cinematography.AAIFF’12: Lily Mariye’s Model Minority, starring Jessica Tuck, Nichole Bloom, Chris Tashima, Helen Slater, Laura Innes and Takayo Fisher, screens at Clearview Chelsea Cinemas
Fire in Our Hearts director Jayshree Janu Kharpade

Fire in Our Hearts director Jayshree Janu Kharpade


The One to Watch Award was presented to director Jayshree Janu Kharpade for her short film FIRE IN OUR HEARTS. Eligible films were screened in the shorts program FOR YOUTH BY YOUTH, written and directed by talented youths between the ages of 15 and 20. FIRE IN OUR HEARTS is an autobiographical film written and directed by a 15-year-old schoolgirl, Jayshree Janu Kharpade, who was born to an indigenous family (aka tribals) that have been disenfranchised at the very bottom of India’s poverty ladder. With a strong courage to learn and conviction to give back to others, Jayshree documents her family and village, as well as the tenacious efforts of the tribal union for the equal rights to education, thanks to which she is able to attend a school for tribal girls.

The Audience Choice Award for Documentary Feature was presented to A LOT LIKE YOU, directed by Eliaichi Kimaro. Tender, intellectual, and reflective, director/writer Eliaichi Kimaro explores her intricate identity as a Tanzanian-Korean mixed-race, first-generation American in her award-winning documentary. A LOT LIKE YOU lodges a personal lens to the perception of postcolonial and immigrant histories, confidently and sincerely bringing out the conversation between the individual, family and culture.

Señorita

Señorita


The Emerging Director Award for Narrative Feature was awarded to director Vincent Sandoval for his film SEÑORITA. Sandoval is also the co-screenwriter, co-producer, and leading actor in the film. Wanting to quit sex work in Manila and start a new life, Sofia, a transgender woman, reinvents herself as Donna in the small town of Talisay to look after her friend’s son. But her past soon catches up with her when she gets involved in the complex politics of a local election, and her two lives cannot be kept apart. Other films nominated for this award were MODEL MINORITY (dir. Lily Mariye), PEARLS OF THE FAR EAST (dir. Cuong Ngo), SHANGHAI CALLING (dir. Daniel Hsia) and VIETTE (dir. Mye Hoang).

The jurors for The Emerging Director Award for Narrative Feature award included film critic John Anderson, executive director of Film Society of Lincoln Center Rose Kuo and award winning Art Director Wing Lee.

My Spiritual Medicine

My Spiritual Medicine

The Excellence in Short Filmmaking Award was awarded to MY SPIRITUAL MEDICINE, directed by Liang Cheng. Actor Takahiro Morooka accepted the award on behalf of director Liang Cheng. Two white-collar clerks set up a private radio program in bustling Shanghai. An Otaku lady lives in isolation. As the random fates of individuals are linked and changed by the radio wave, love, in all possible forms, burgeons. Other films nominated for this award were HOW TO EAT YOUR APPLE (dir. Erick Oh), ONCE (dir. Jie Chen), SHANGHAI LOVE MARKET (dir. Craig Rosenthal) and THE LAST MARBLE (dir. Manjari Makijany).
AAIFF'12 awards presenter Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai and actor Takahiro Morooka, who accepted the award for My Spirtual Medicine on behalf of director Liang Cheng. Photo by Lia Chang

AAIFF’12 awards presenter Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai and actor Takahiro Morooka, who accepted the award for My Spirtual Medicine on behalf of director Liang Cheng. Photo by Lia Chang


The jurors for The Excellence in Short Filmmaking Award included award-winning filmmaker Buboo Jakobsson, actor Ken Leung and film distributor Cindi Rowell.

The screening of Knots was followed by a luau-themed afterparty at DUO Lounge.

Check back for my exclusive interviews with Model Minority actor Chris Tashima, an academy award-winning filmmaker for Visas and Virtues, and Jodi Long, who is currently appearing on “Sullivan and Son” with Steve Byrne.

Jodi Long, a filmmaker and actor, who is currently appearing on Sullivan and Son with Steve Byrne, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Jodi Long, a filmmaker and actor, who is currently appearing on Sullivan and Son with Steve Byrne, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang


 Lia Chang and Chris Tashima at DUO Lounge in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by June Jee

Lia Chang and Chris Tashima at DUO Lounge in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by June Jee


In addition, I will be posting a slideshow of my 35th Asian American International Film Festival coverage of Lily Mariye’s Model Minority; Richard Wong’s and H.P. Mendoza’s Yes, We’re Open; Michael Kang’s Knots; and Simon Yin’s $upercapitalist, written, produced and starring Derek Ting, Linus Roache, Michael Park, Kenneth Tsang, Richard Ng and Kathy Uyen, which kicks off its theatrical release at Village East Cinema in New York on August 10, 2012.
Supercapitalist producer Joyce Yung, Jane Ann Valentine, Knots writer and star Kimberly-Rose Wolter, Knots director Michael Kang, Pun Bandhu, Derek Ting, writer, producer and star of Supercapitalist at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival screening of Knots, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Supercapitalist producer Joyce Yung, Jane Ann Valentine, Knots writer and star Kimberly-Rose Wolter, Knots director Michael Kang, Pun Bandhu, Derek Ting, writer, producer and star of Supercapitalist at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival screening of Knots, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

$UPERCAPITALIST starring Derek Ting, Linus Roache, Michael Park, Kenneth Tsang, Richard Ng and Kathy Uyen is the AAIFF’12 Centerpiece Presentation on July 28, 2012; opens in U.S.Theaters in August
Kerry McCrohan, Richard Wong, H. P. Mendoza and Theresa Navarro after the screening of Yes, We’re Open at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Kerry McCrohan, Richard Wong, H. P. Mendoza and Theresa Navarro after the screening of Yes, We’re Open at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Sponsors
The 35th Asian American International Film Festival is made possible with public funds from the National Endowment for The Arts, by the New York State Council on The Arts, with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. Special Support is provided by Macy’s, Wells Fargo, AARP, Woo Creative, Art Works, NYCulture, AMP Viacom, and the many friends of ACV.

John Woo, Executive Director of Asian Cinevision, June Jee, Knots writer and star Kimberly-Rose Wolter, director Michael Kang and actor Yoko Honjo; Beth Rosenthal Finkel, MSW Senior Manager, AARP, Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai, David Kim, Vice President for Multicultural Markets and Engagement, AARP, and Model Minority actor Chris Tashima, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival closing night screening of Knots at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

John Woo, Executive Director of Asian Cinevision, June Jee, Knots writer and star Kimberly-Rose Wolter, director Michael Kang and actor Yoko Honjo; Beth Rosenthal Finkel, MSW Senior Manager, AARP, Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai, David Kim, Vice President for Multicultural Markets and Engagement, AARP, and Model Minority actor Chris Tashima, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival closing night screening of Knots at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 5, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang


“AARP is proud to sponsor the Asian American American International Film Festival because it is important for us to increase the awareness, relevance and engagement of the 50+ and their families in the Asian Communities,” shared David Kim, Vice President for Multicultural Markets and Engagement, AARP. “One of the ways we do this is to have a presence in the Asian American community to let people know that we want to support through our outreach efforts, the Asian American communities on a consistent and long term basis.”
 J.P. Chan, writer/director of the recently wrapped A Picture of You, is flanked by his castmembers Jodi Long, who can currently be seen on Sullivan and Son, and Jo Mei, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang


J.P. Chan, writer/director of the recently wrapped A Picture of You, is flanked by his castmembers Jodi Long, who can currently be seen on Sullivan and Son, and Jo Mei, at the 35th Asian American International Film Festival, at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Johnny Loves Dolores filmmaker Clarissa De Los Reyes, Andrew Eisenman, Bing Magtoto and Steven Payne at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang

Johnny Loves Dolores filmmaker Clarissa De Los Reyes, Andrew Eisenman, Bing Magtoto and Steven Payne at the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas in New York on August 4, 2012. Photo by Lia Chang


The Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF) is produced by Asian CineVision (ACV), a nonprofit media arts organization devoted to the development, promotion and preservation of Asian and Asian American film and video. AAIFF is the nation’s longest-running festival of its kind and a leading showcase for the best in independent Asian and Asian American film and video.
About Asian CineVision & AAIFF
For more information on the 35th Annual Asian American International Film Festival, please visit
http://www.asiancinevision.org/aaiff/
.

Other Articles by Lia Chang
10 minutes with Sullivan & Son’s Jodi Long, Award Winning Actor and Filmmaker
Asian American Civil Rights Groups Angered by Acquittal and Lenient Sentence in Military Hazing Case of Pvt. Danny Chen
AAIFF’12: Richard Wong & H.P. Mendoza’s Yes, We’re Open, starring Lynn Chen, Parry Shen, Sheetal Sheth, & Kerry McCrohan, screens at Clearview Chelsea Cinemas on August 4, 2012
AAIFF’12: Knots, written by and starring Kimberly-Rose Wolter, Illeana Douglas, Sung Kang, Mia Riverton, Janel Parrish and Cathy Foy, and directed by Michael Kang, screens at Clearview Chelsea Cinemas on August 5, 2012
AAIFF’12: Lily Mariye’s Model Minority, starring Jessica Tuck, Nichole Bloom, Chris Tashima, Helen Slater, Laura Innes and Takayo Fisher, screens at Clearview Chelsea Cinemas on August 4, 2012
Daniel Hsia’s Shanghai Calling, Simon Yin’s Supercapitalist & Michael Kang’s Knots to Screen at 35th annual Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF) in New York, which runs July 25 – August 5, 2012
35th Asian American International Film Festival Line-up in New York
Janet Yang to receive 2012 Asian American Media Award at AAIFF’12 Opening Night Presentation of Shanghai Calling on July 25, 2012
Click here for more articles on Film.
George Takei, Lea Salonga, Telly Leung and Paolo Montalban star in the World Premiere of Allegiance – A New American Musical at The Old Globe, September 7 – October 21, 2012
Catch Grammy-winning Drummer Will Calhoun in August at The Iridium, Jazzmobile Summerfest 2012, The Blue Note, Hudson Valley Jazz Festival, and WimBash
Three Year Swim Club, Encounter, TEA, Christmas in Hanoi and Chess set for East West Players 47th Anniversary Season
Photos: All-Access Pass to Disney’s Aladdin at The Muny with Thom Sesma, Francis Jue, Robin De Jesus, John Tartaglia, Jason Graae, Curtis Holbrook, Eddie Korbich, Samantha Massell and Ken Page
Rick Shiomi helms Mu Performing Arts’ Asian American Cast of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods at Park Square Theatre in St. Paul, July 17-August 5, 2012
Performing Arts Images from the Asian American Pacific Islander Collection on Display at the Library of Congress to Celebrate APA Heritage Month
Photos: Yellow Fever Playwright Rick Shiomi Explores New Territory with An All-Female Cast
Photos: BD Wong, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Brandon Victor Dixon, Tom Viola at “Passing It On: An Evening of Mentorship to Benefit Rosie’s Theater Kids”
Photos: Highlights of Shinsai: Theaters for Japan (3pm) with Andre Bishop, Mary Beth Hurt, Jennifer Lim, Angela Lin, Philip Kan Gotanda, Thom Sesma, Sab Shimono, Richard Thomas, Jay O. Sanders, and more
Photos: Highlights of Shinsai: Theaters for Japan (8pm) with Oskar Eustis, Patti LuPone, Lisa Emery, Ann Harada, Paolo Montalban, Thom Sesma, Sab Shimono, Henry Stram, Richard Thomas, John Weidman and more
Photos: In Rehearsal with Director Bartlett Sher and the cast of Shinsai: Theaters for Japan
David Henry Hwang Set as Signature Theatre’s Residency One Playwright for the 2012-2013 Season
Photos: In Rehearsal with BD Wong at Dixon Place for Live Concert Recording of Herringbone
Photos: David Henry Hwang, Oskar Eustis, BD Wong, Brian d’Arcy James, Francis Jue, Jennifer Lim and Leigh Silverman at WNYC’s The Greene Space
Click here for the Lia Chang Articles Archive and here for the Lia Chang Photography Website.

Lia Chang. Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography

Lia Chang. Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography


Lia Chang is an actor, a performance and fine art botanical photographer, and an award-winning multi-platform journalist.
All text, graphics, articles & photographs: © 2000-2012 Lia Chang Multimedia. All rights reserved. All materials contained on this site are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of Lia Chang. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. For permission, please contact Lia at liachangpr@gmail.com

NYMF: Prison Dancer starring Jose Llana, Jeigh Madjus, Marc delaCruz, Catherine Ricafort, Moses Villarama, Cosmo Clemens, Enrico Rodriguez, Albert Guerzon, Andrew Eisenman and Nathan Ramos at Theatre at St. Clement’s, July 20-28, 2012

New York Musical Theatre Festival (NYMF) and PRISON DANCER LIVE presents Romeo Candido and Carmen De Jesus’Prison Dancer The Musical, helmed by Jenn Rapp, with music supervision by Alexander Rovang, at Off-Broadway’s Theatre at St. Clement’s, 423 West 46th Street in New York, Friday, July 20-Saturday, July 28, 2012.

The cast features Jose Llana (Bdwy: Wonderland, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Flower Drum Song, Martin Guerre) as Christian Bagets, Jeigh Madjus (US Tour 2011 Le Cage Aux Folles) as Lola, Marc delaCruz (1st National Tour: Disney’s High School Musical) as Hookaps, Catherine Ricafort (Bdwy:Mamma Mia) as Cherish, Moses Villarama (Romeo & Juliet, National Theatre Cons.; King Lear, Denver Theatre Co.) as Shakespeare, Cosmo Clemens (Regional: 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, McLeod Summer Playhouse, Carbondale, IL; )as Oo Oo, Enrico Rodriguez (Off Bdwy: Fame on 42nd Street, Zanna, Don’t!) as Nana, Albert Guerzon (Bdwy: Ghost the Musical, Mamma Mia!) as Tondo, Andrew Eisenman (Twelfth Night, Leviathan Lab; Mother Courage, Ma-Yi Theatre Company) as Warden, and Nathan Ramos (Fever/Dream, Cleveland Public Theatre) as Swing/Prison Guard.

Jose Llana

Jose Llana


The lives of eight Filipino maximum-security prisoners are changed forever when a video of their dance-based rehabilitation program becomes a viral Internet sensation on YouTube. As the dark prison suddenly finds itself in the worldwide spotlight, these hardcore criminals are given a second chance to find love and happiness in the most challenging circumstances. A modern inspired-by-a-true-story about how fears can hold us captive – and dreams can set us free to dance!

With scenic design by Josh Zangen, costume design by Sky Switser, lighting design by Betsy Adams, sound design by Jon Weston. Rick Sorderlet is the fight director and Travis Brendle is the production stage manager.

PRISON DANCER Schedule:
Friday, Jul 20th, 2012 at 8:00 pm
Sunday, Jul 22nd, 2012 at 3:00 pm
Sunday, Jul 22nd, 2012 at 8:00 pm
Friday, Jul 27th, 2012 at 5:00 pm
Saturday, Jul 28th, 2012 at 5:00 pm
Saturday, Jul 28th, 2012 at 9:00 pm

Tickets are $20 and are available online at
http://nymf.org/prisondancer
or by calling 212-352-3101. Tickets are available for any NYMF show in person at the NYMF HUB: 330 West 42nd Street (Between 8th and 9th avenue). Starting July 9th, you can buy tickets for any NYMF show in person at Theater at St.Clement’s, an hour before the first show of the day.

Theatre at St. Clement’s
423 West 46th Street
New York

Romeo Candido (Composer, Writer, Director) is an award-winning transmedia producer and creator. Candidoʼs credits include a CBC comedy short “ROLLING LONGANIZA,” ANG PAMANA : THE INHERITANCE, the first Philippine / Canadian co- production that was released theatrically in the Philippines to critical acclaim. He produced the Philippinesʼ first mobile only series entitled “ME, MY CEL AND I,” for Globe telecom. He then went on to produce with DDBPhil the viral series ‘SIGHTINGS” which became a viral hit receiving over a million views. He has received 4 Dora Award nominations for his work as a composer / sound designer (Banana Boys, Sinkil, People Power, Lady In The Red Dress). His directorial feature film debut, LOLO’S CHILD, a ‘musical dramedy’, won the prestigious Ishmael Bernal award at the 2002 Cinemanila Film Festival.

Carmen De Jesus (Writer) has written for film, television, stage, web and mobile web content. She began her career understudying the role of Kim in the original Canadian cast of Miss Saigon and co-wrote the feature length film ANG PAMANA: THE INHERITANCE with Romeo Candido. She also has been featured in Script Magazine, Fudge Magazine and was dubbed the “Patient Zero” user of Friendster.com, by Inc. Magazine, for introducing the pioneering social networking site to Filipinos in the Philippines. Carmen has worked in Social Media Marketing, high-tech advertising (JWT), and online marketing. She also helped to develop and launch the popular online video viewing community and content portal, SoulgardenTV as Director of Community Development, where she also developed online edutainment. She is a native Californian, splitting her time between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Carmen and Romeo met when they were both cast in the original Canadian production of Miss Saigon, which premiered at the Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto. With both the feature film ANG PAMANA: THE INHERITANCE and PRISON DANCER: THE MUSICAL, their collaborations center around creating artistic projects that elevate Filipino culture and talent, and take modern storytelling to the next level.

Jeigh Madjus (LOLA) Born and raised in Toronto, Jeigh Madjus is currently playing Jacob in the 1st National Broadway tour of La Cage aux Folles. Past theatre roles include Mark in Altar Boyz (Angelwalk-Dora nominated), Chip Tolentino in Spelling Bee (STC) and Man 3 in Myths and Hymns (TIFT). Film/TV : Servitude. Madjus has been involved with the project since it’s initial workshop in Toronto.

Jose Llana (CHRISTIAN) most recently appeared as President Ferdinand Marcos in David Byrne and Fat Boy Slim’s Here Lies Love (dir. Alex Timbers) at the Williamstown Theatre Festival prior to its World Premier at The Public Theater in Spring 2013. Broadway: El Gato in Frank Wildhorn’s Wonderland (dir. Gregory Boyd), Chip Tolentino in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling (dir. James Lapine, Drama Desk Award), Wang Ta in Flower Drum Song (opposite Lea Salonga, dir. Bobby Longbottom), Angel in RENT (dir. Michael Grief), Jessie-Lee in Streetcorner Symphony and Lun Tha in the 1996 Revival of The King and I opposite Lou Diamond Phillips and Donna Murphy. Off-Broadway: Adam in Falling For Eve at The York Theatre, Gabey in On the Town (dir. George C. Wolfe, Delacorte/NYSF) and Adam Guettel’s Saturn Returns (dir. Tina Landau, Public Theater). Regional: Cameron Mackintosh’s Martin Guerre (Guillaume, Guthrie Theater), Ballad of Little Jo (dir. Tina Landau, The Steppenwolf Theater, Jefferson Nomination – Best Supporting Actor) and Candide (The Prince Theater, Barrymore Nomination – Best Actor). Workshops: Love’s Labour’s Lost (dir. Alex Timbers), Ever After (dir. Kathleen Marshall), The Kid (dir. Scott Elliott), Allegiance (dir. Stafford Arima), Tales of the City (dir. Jason Moore), Havana (dir. Nilo Cruz), The Long Season (dir. Peter duBois), Kafka’s Songs (dir. Diane Paulus), Melchior in Spring Awakening (dir. Michael Mayer), among others. TV/film appearances include HBO’s “Sex and the City” opposite Margaret Cho and Hitch opposite Will Smith. Besides numerous cast albums and benefit CD’s, Llana is a best-selling recording artist in his native Philippines releasing his self-titled solo album under the VIVA Philippines label. www.josellana.com

Catherine Ricafort (CHERISH) is currently appearing on Broadway as “Ali” in Mamma Mia!! Other favorite projects include NBC’s “The Sing-Off”, in which she appeared as a member and featured performer of “The Backbeats” who placed in the Final 3. She also enjoyed touring the country playing the principal role of Connie with the Broadway National Tour of A Chorus Line. Catherine originated the role of Cherish in Prison Dancer: The Interactive Webmusical.

Albert Guerzon (TONDO) is currently in Ghost on Broadway. Fav credits include Mamma Mia! (Broadway and 2nd National Tour), The Times They Are A-Changin’ by Twyla Tharp, The Wiz (La Jolla), Cutman (Goodspeed), David Byrne’s Here Lies Love (Public Theater), and Flower Drum Song (50th Anniversary). Guerzon choreographed for Kaci Battaglia feat. Ludacris, Emii feat. Snoop Dogg, and NY Fashion week. www.albertguerzon.com

Moses Villarama (SHAKESPEARE) Regional credits include Arabian Nights (Kansas City Rep); Elephant Man, Working, King Lear, A Christmas Carol, Amadeus, Season’s Greetings, 1001, and The Ladies of the Camellias (Denver Center); and Fornicated From The Beatles (A.R.T.’s Emerging America Festival). New York productions include One Fat Day In Babylon, Lifetime Fairytale, Romeo & Juliet and In The Zone (Columbia Stages); and Henry VI, Part 3 (Wide Eyed Productions). He received his training at the National Theatre Conservatory and is a regular performer in Shotz with aMios Theater Company. This summer you can catch a remount of Fornicated From The Beatles in New York . www.fornicatedfromthebeatles.com

Marc delaCruz (HOOKAPS) New York credits include various readings, concerts and workshops such as David Byrne’s HERE LIES LOVE (dir. Alex Timbers, The Public Theater), Jason Ma’s GOLD MOUNTAIN (Hunter College), PhilDev’s SUITES BY SONDHEIM (Lincoln Center), Timothy Huang’s AND THE EARTH MOVED (CAP21) and Will Parker in OKLAHOMA! (dir. Baayork Lee, National Asian Artists Project). Other credits include Dara in the world premier of WHERE ELEPHANTS WEEP in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the first national tour of Disney’s HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL and work in several regional houses such as the 5th Avenue Theatre, Village Theatre, San Jose Repertory and North Carolina Theatre.

Cosmo Clemens (NANA) is a recent graduate of Indiana University (BFA in Musical Theatre). His regional credits include: Chip Tolentino (Spelling Bee), Gangster No. 1 (The Drowsy Chaperone), The Wiz (The Wiz). Collegiate credits include: Rent, West Side Story, Anything Goes. www.CosmoClemens.com

Enrico Rodriguez (OO OO) Broadway/Off-Broadway: BIG-THE MUSICAL (Original Bway Cast), RENT (Steve, Angel u/s), ZANNA DON’T! (Mike, original cast), FAME on 42nd St (Joe Vegas u/s), RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR; National Tours: MAMMA MIA! (Pepper), RENT (Angel u/s, Benny Tour), MISS SAIGON. Regional: MISS SAIGON (Walnut Street Theatre, Houston TUTS, Pittsburgh CLO), FOOTLOOSE (Ren, North Shore Music Theatre), CRAZY FOR YOU, BYE, BYE BIRDIE, WEST SIDE STORY (Pittsburgh CLO). Cast recordings: ZANNA DON’T, FAME, BIG. Readings/workshops: ALLEGIANCE (Young Sam), SKIPPYJON JONES (Skippyjon), Maury Yeston’s PEONY PAVILION, BRING IT ON.

Andrew Eisenman (The WARDEN) has worked with NYSF/Public Theater, Ma-Yi Theater, National Asian American Theater Company, Lark Theatre, IMUA! Theater, The New Group, Immigrants’ Theater Project, Diverse City Theater, Fluid Motion Film & Theater, Living Image Arts, American Bard Theater Company and Leviathan Lab. TV & Film credits include “The Sopranos,” Rigodon, Cardiac Arrest, Missy, The Vanished, Johnny Loves Dolores, Pagpag.

Nathan Ramos: (GUARD) spent the last two years as an Actor/Teacher at the Great Lakes Theater. NY Credits: THE AWESOME 80′s PROM Regional Credits Include: FEVER/DREAM (Cleveland Public Theatre), ANYTHING GOES, MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, DRACULA (Monomoy Theatre), BFA in Theatre Performance from Ohio University.

Ana Serrano (Producer) is a three-time Canadian New Media Award-winner, including Visionary of the Year, Serrano is best known as Founder of CFC Media Lab, the world-renowned and award-winning institute for interactive storytelling she created in 1997 at the Canadian Film Centre. To date, she directed the development of over 130 interactive media projects, mentored over 50 start ups and produced some of Canada’s seminal works in interactive media including Late Fragment the first interactive dramatic feature film to be featured at the 32nd Toronto International Film Festival. In her capacity as an independent consultant and producer, Serrano has advised and worked with clients as diverse as the public sector, Fortune 500 companies, start ups and advertising agencies.

Website:
http://nymf.org/prisondancer
or
http://prisondancer.com

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Three Year Swim Club, Encounter, TEA, Christmas in Hanoi and Chess set for East West Players 47th Anniversary Season
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Daniel Hsia’s Shanghai Calling, Simon Yin’s Supercapitalist & Michael Kang’s Knots to Screen at 35th annual Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF) in New York, which runs July 25 – August 5, 2012
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Tony Award – winning Playwright Terrence McNally to be Honored at Westport Country Playhouse Annual Gala, September 24, 2012
Richard Thomas and Boyd Gaines to star in An Enemy of the People at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre during Manhattan Theatre Club’s 2012-2013 Season
Multimedia: Exclusive photos and video of Disney’s The Lion King Las Vegas -In the Makeup Chair with Thom Sesma
Photos: BD Wong, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Brandon Victor Dixon, Tom Viola at “Passing It On: An Evening of Mentorship to Benefit Rosie’s Theater Kids”
Photos: Highlights of Shinsai: Theaters for Japan (3pm) with Andre Bishop, Mary Beth Hurt, Jennifer Lim, Angela Lin, Philip Kan Gotanda, Thom Sesma, Sab Shimono, Richard Thomas, Jay O. Sanders, and more
Photos: Highlights of Shinsai: Theaters for Japan (8pm) with Oskar Eustis, Patti LuPone, Lisa Emery, Ann Harada, Paolo Montalban, Thom Sesma, Sab Shimono, Henry Stram, Richard Thomas, John Weidman and more
Photos: In Rehearsal with Director Bartlett Sher and the cast of Shinsai: Theaters for Japan
David Henry Hwang Set as Signature Theatre’s Residency One Playwright for the 2012-2013 Season
Photos: In Rehearsal with BD Wong at Dixon Place for Live Concert Recording of Herringbone
Photos: David Henry Hwang, Oskar Eustis, BD Wong, Brian d’Arcy James, Francis Jue, Jennifer Lim and Leigh Silverman at WNYC’s The Greene Space
Click here for the Lia Chang Articles Archive and here for the Lia Chang Photography Website.

Lia Chang. Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography

Lia Chang. Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography


Lia Chang is an actor, a performance and fine art botanical photographer, and an award-winning multi-platform journalist.
All text, graphics, articles & photographs: © 2000-2012 Lia Chang Multimedia. All rights reserved. All materials contained on this site are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of Lia Chang. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. For permission, please contact Lia at liachangpr@gmail.com

Tina Chilip, Jojo Gonzalez, Marcus Ho and More in Leviathan Lab’s Twelfth Night Production Photos, Performances through 11/19

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Foreground Center:  Jojo Gonzalez as Feste with the cast of Leviathan Lab's TWELFTH NIGHT Photo by Bree Warner

Foreground Center: Jojo Gonzalez as Feste with the cast of Leviathan Lab's TWELFTH NIGHT Photo by Bree Warner


Is it possible to have too much fun on stage? I don’t think so. If you haven’t made it to the Leviathan Lab’s inaugural production, Twelfth Night, an entertaining romp starring Jojo Gonzalez as Feste the clown, Tina Chilip as Viola, Kurt Uy as Orsino, Eileen Rivera as Olivia, Andrew Eisenman as Malvolio, John Roque as Sir Toby Belch, Ka-ling Cheung as Maria, Marcus Ho as Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Chris Doi as Sebastian, Roger Yeh as Fabian, and Eugene Oh as Antonio, you only have three more chances to do so through November 19 at the Arclight Theater in New York. I guarantee you will have a grand time.
L to R:  Ka-ling Cheung as Maria, Eileen Rivera as Olivia and Tina Chilip as Viola Photo by Bree Warner

L to R: Ka-ling Cheung as Maria, Eileen Rivera as Olivia and Tina Chilip as Viola Photo by Bree Warner


Leviathan Lab’s Twelfth Night is set in the seaside city of Illyria, but is a fresh take on Shakespeare’s comedy, infused with auteur Wong Kar-wai’s 1960s Hong Kong sensibility and style, and helmed by Nelson T. Eusebio III, with original music by veteran Broadway actor/composer Jason Ma, choreography by Dax Valdes, and sets & costumes by Maiko Chii.
Chris Doi as Sebastian, Tina Chilip as Viola Photo by Bree Warner

Chris Doi as Sebastian, Tina Chilip as Viola Photo by Bree Warner


Performances are Thursday – Saturday at 8pm. Tickets are $18 general admission, $15 students and seniors, with special prices for groups of 10 or more.
L to R:  John Roque as Sir Toby Belch, Marcus Ho as Sir Andrew Aguecheek Photo by Bree Warner

L to R: John Roque as Sir Toby Belch, Marcus Ho as Sir Andrew Aguecheek Photo by Bree Warner


Andrew Eisenman as Malvolio Photo by Bree Warner

Andrew Eisenman as Malvolio Photo by Bree Warner


Arclight Theater
152 West 71st Street, Level 1 between Broadway and Columbus Avenues
New York

ABOUT LEVIATHAN LAB
Leviathan Lab is a professional creative studio founded in 2009 that includes more than 75 Asian-American actors, writers, and directors. Leviathan Lab invests in the advancement of both emerging and established Asian American performing artists by featuring them in new works by Asian American writers, in fresh interpretations of classical plays, and in original works for film, tv and new media. More information can be found at www.leviathanlab.com.

Leviathan Lab founder Ariel Estrada, composer Jason Ma, director Nelson T. Eusebio III and choregrapher Dax Valdes. Photo by Lia Chang

Leviathan Lab founder Ariel Estrada, composer Jason Ma, director Nelson T. Eusebio III and choregrapher Dax Valdes. Photo by Lia Chang


Jojo Gonzalez as Feste Photo by Bree Warner

Jojo Gonzalez as Feste Photo by Bree Warner


Other Articles by Lia Chang
Photos: Kathie Lee Gifford at the 2011 Lord & Taylor Fifth Avenue Christmas Windows Unveiling in New York
Photos: Fall Foliage at Devil’s Lake State Park
Photos: Leviathan Lab’s Twelfth Night at the Arclight through 11/19
Tina Chilip and Jojo Gonzalez Star in Leviathan Lab’s Dynamic Hong Kong Re-imagining of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night Featuring an All-Asian American Cast, at the Arclight in NY, 11/3-11/19
Photos of AEA’s Asian Heritage Celebration, featuring the Leviathan Lab Asian American Women Writers Workshop
Photos: David Henry Hwang, Jennifer Lim, Leigh Silverman, Samuel L. Jackson, Kenny Leon, David Ives, Douglas Carter Beane and More at The Drama Desk & Fordham University Theatre Program’s “Anatomy of a Breakout” Panel
Ma-Yi Presents Carla Ching’s The Sugar House at The Edge of The Wilderness at The Connelly Theater, 11/8-12/4
Christine Toy Johnson Leads the Cast of Pan Asian Repertory Theatre’s Shanghai Lil’s, 11/11-11/27/11
David Henry Hwang’s Chinglish Takes Home 2 Jeff Awards
Cathy Foy-Mahi Plays Bloody Mary in 2011-2012 National Tour of South Pacific
Photos: Backstage with the Cast of Chinglish and David Henry Hwang at the Longacre Theatre
Lia Chang Photos: Opening Night of Mu Performing Arts’ Katie Hae Leo’s Four Destinies
Lia Chang Photos: Backstage at Mu Performing Arts’ Four Destinies by Katie Hae Leo
Art by Nicholas Galanin Featured in Kindred Spirits, Native American Influences on 20th Century Art, at Peter Blum Soho in NY, 10/29/11-1/14/12
Photos: Crossroads’ Ain’t Misbehavin’
Up Close and Personal with Rick Shiomi, Award-winning Playwright and Artistic Director of Mu Performing Arts
Broadwayworld.com Photo Flash: Library of Congress’ IN REHEARSAL Exhibit
Lia Chang Theater Portfolio at Library of Congress Features Photos of Thom Sesma’s Makeup Transformation as Scar in Disney’s The Lion King Las Vegas, Robert Lee and Leon Ko’s Heading East Starring BD Wong, David Henry Hwang’s Chinglish, and Samrat Chakrabarti and Sanjiv Jhaveri’s Bakwas Bumbug! on View Through August 2
Photos and Video: Disney’s The Lion King Las Vegas- In the Makeup Chair with Thom Sesma
Photos: “How To Succeed” stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rose Hemingway & John Larroquette at Lord & Taylor Fifth Ave
Photos: David Duchovny, John Earl Jelks, Amanda Peet, Tracee Chimo at Opening Night Party of Neil LaBute’s Break of Noon
Multimedia: Promises, Promises’ Stars Kristin Chenoweth and Sean Hayes at Lord & Taylor Fifth Ave
Click here for the Lia Chang Articles Archive and here for the Lia Chang Photography Website.
The cast and creative team of Leviathan Lab's Twelfth Night on the set at the Arclight Theater in New York on November 11, 2011. Photo by Lia Chang

The cast and creative team of Leviathan Lab's Twelfth Night on the set at the Arclight Theater in New York on November 11, 2011. Photo by Lia Chang

Subscribe to Backstage Pass with Lia Chang

Lia Chang Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography

Lia Chang Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography


Lia Chang is an actor, performance and fine art botanical photographer, and an award-winning multimedia journalist.
As a photographer and videographer, Lia collaborates with artists, organizations and companies in establishing their documentary photo archive and social media presence. She has been documenting her colleagues and contemporaries in the arts, fashion and journalism since making her stage debut as Liat in the National Tour of South Pacific, with Robert Goulet and Barbara Eden. Lia currently plays Nurse Lia on “One Life to Live”. She has appeared in Wolf, New Jack City, A Kiss Before Dying, King of New York, Big Trouble in Little China, The Last Dragon, Taxman and “New York Undercover”.

Selections of Lia’s archive of Asian Pacific Americans in the arts, fashion, journalism, politics and space are now in the newly created LIA CHANG THEATER PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO in the ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN PERFORMING ARTS COLLECTION housed in the Library of Congress Asian Division’s Asian American Pacific Islander Collection.
Lia’s portraits and performance photos have appeared in Vanity Fair, Gourmet, German Elle, Women’s Wear Daily, The Paris Review, TV Guide, Daily Variety, Interior Design, American Theatre, Broadwayworld.com, Life & Style, OUT, New York Magazine, InStyle, Timeout.com, Villagevoice.com, Playbill.com, Theatermania.com, thelmagazine.com, The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, USA Today, The Boston Globe, New York Times and Washington Post. A former syndicated arts and entertainment columnist for KYODO News, Lia is the New York Bureau Chief for AsianConnections.com. She writes about culture, style and Asian American issues for a variety of publications and this Backstage Pass with Lia Chang blog.

All text, graphics, articles & photographs: © 2000-2011 Lia Chang Multimedia. All rights reserved. All materials contained on this site are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of Lia Chang. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. For permission, please contact Lia at liachangpr@gmail.com.

Lia Chang Photos: Leviathan Lab’s Twelfth Night at the Arclight through 11/19

The cast and creative team of Leviathan Lab's Twelfth Night on the set at the Arclight Theater in New York on November 11, 2011. Photo by Lia Chang

The cast and creative team of Leviathan Lab's Twelfth Night on the set at the Arclight Theater in New York on November 11, 2011. Photo by Lia Chang

I had a great time at Leviathan Lab’s inaugural production, Twelfth Night, an entertaining romp starring Jojo Gonzalez as Feste the clown, Tina Chilip as Viola, Kurt Uy as Orsino, Eileen Rivera as Olivia, Andrew Eisenman as Malvolio, John Roque as Sir Toby Belch, Karen Tsen Lee as Maria, Marcus Ho as Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Chris Doi as Sebastian, Roger Yeh as Fabian, and Eugene Oh as Antonio, currently having a limited run through November 19 at the Arclight Theater in New York.
Leviathan Lab founder Ariel Estrada, composer Jason Ma, director Nelson T. Eusebio III and choregrapher Dax Valdes. Photo by Lia Chang

Leviathan Lab founder Ariel Estrada, composer Jason Ma, director Nelson T. Eusebio III and choregrapher Dax Valdes. Photo by Lia Chang

Twelfth Night is set in the seaside city of Illyria, infused with auteur Wong Kar-wai’s 1960s Hong Kong sensibility and style, and helmed by Nelson T. Eusebio III, with original music by veteran Broadway actor/composer Jason Ma, choreography by Dax Valdes, and sets & costumes by Maiko Chii.
Raul and Mary Aranas came out to support Karen Tsen Lee in her debut as Maria and the brilliant Jojo Gonzalez, who is fearless as Feste the Clown.  Photo by Lia Chang

Raul and Mary Aranas came out to support Karen Tsen Lee in her debut as Maria and the brilliant Jojo Gonzalez who is fearless as Feste the Clown. Photo by Lia Chang


There are only 8 more performances for you to catch this talented ensemble, Thursday – Saturday, 8pm; Sundays, 2pm; Wednesday, 11/16 at 8pm. Tickets are $18 general admission, $15 students and seniors, with special prices for groups of 10 or more.
As Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Marcus Ho displays his flair for physical comedy. Photo by Lia Chang

As Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Marcus Ho displays his flair for physical comedy. Photo by Lia Chang

Arclight Theater
152 West 71st Street, Level 1 between Broadway and Columbus Avenues
New York

ABOUT LEVIATHAN LAB
Leviathan Lab is a professional creative studio founded in 2009 that includes more than 75 Asian-American actors, writers, and directors. Leviathan Lab invests in the advancement of both emerging and established Asian American performing artists by featuring them in new works by Asian American writers, in fresh interpretations of classical plays, and in original works for film, tv and new media. More information can be found at www.leviathanlab.com.

Kurt Uy (Orsino) and Tina Chilip (Viola)  Photo by Lia Chang

Kurt Uy (Orsino) and Tina Chilip (Viola) Photo by Lia Chang

Chris Doi (Sebastian) and Eileen Rivera (Olivia) Photo by Lia Chang

Chris Doi (Sebastian) and Eileen Rivera (Olivia) Photo by Lia Chang

Karen Tsen Lee (Maria) and John Roque (Sir Toby) Photo by Lia Chang

Karen Tsen Lee (Maria) and John Roque (Sir Toby) Photo by Lia Chang


Leviathan Lab founder Ariel Estrada and Rick Shiomi, Mu Performing Arts Artistic Director and playwright. Photo by Lia Chang

Leviathan Lab founder Ariel Estrada and Rick Shiomi, Mu Performing Arts Artistic Director and playwright. Photo by Lia Chang

Other Articles by Lia Chang
Tina Chilip and Jojo Gonzalez Star in Leviathan Lab’s Dynamic Hong Kong Re-imagining of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night Featuring an All-Asian American Cast, at the Arclight in NY, 11/3-11/19
Photos of AEA’s Asian Heritage Celebration, featuring the Leviathan Lab Asian American Women Writers Workshop
Photos: David Henry Hwang, Jennifer Lim, Leigh Silverman, Samuel L. Jackson, Kenny Leon, David Ives, Douglas Carter Beane and More at The Drama Desk & Fordham University Theatre Program’s “Anatomy of a Breakout” Panel
Ma-Yi Presents Carla Ching’s The Sugar House at The Edge of The Wilderness at The Connelly Theater, 11/8-12/4
David Henry Hwang’s Chinglish Takes Home 2 Jeff Awards
Cathy Foy-Mahi Plays Bloody Mary in 2011-2012 National Tour of South Pacific
Photos: Backstage with the Cast of Chinglish and David Henry Hwang at the Longacre Theatre
Lia Chang Photos: Opening Night of Mu Performing Arts’ Katie Hae Leo’s Four Destinies
Lia Chang Photos: Backstage at Mu Performing Arts’ Four Destinies by Katie Hae Leo
Art by Nicholas Galanin Featured in Kindred Spirits, Native American Influences on 20th Century Art, at Peter Blum Soho in NY, 10/29/11-1/14/12
Photos: Crossroads’ Ain’t Misbehavin’
Up Close and Personal with Rick Shiomi, Award-winning Playwright and Artistic Director of Mu Performing Arts
Photos: Christine Toy Johnson, Angela Lin, Louis Ozawa Changchien, Jake Manabat, David Shih in Jen Silverman’s Crane Story at The Cherry Lane
Broadwayworld.com Photo Flash: Library of Congress’ IN REHEARSAL Exhibit
Lia Chang Theater Portfolio at Library of Congress Features Photos of Thom Sesma’s Makeup Transformation as Scar in Disney’s The Lion King Las Vegas, Robert Lee and Leon Ko’s Heading East Starring BD Wong, David Henry Hwang’s Chinglish, and Samrat Chakrabarti and Sanjiv Jhaveri’s Bakwas Bumbug! on View Through August 2
Photos: David Duchovny, John Earl Jelks, Amanda Peet, Tracee Chimo opening night of Neil LaBute’s The Break of Noon
Click here for the Lia Chang Articles Archive and here for the Lia Chang Photography Website.

Lia Chang Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography

Lia Chang Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography


Lia Chang is an actor, performance and fine art botanical photographer, and an award-winning multimedia journalist.
As a photographer and videographer, Lia collaborates with artists, organizations and companies in establishing their documentary photo archive and social media presence. She has been documenting her colleagues and contemporaries in the arts, fashion and journalism since making her stage debut as Liat in the National Tour of South Pacific, with Robert Goulet and Barbara Eden. Lia currently plays Nurse Lia on “One Life to Live”. She has appeared in Wolf, New Jack City, A Kiss Before Dying, King of New York, Big Trouble in Little China, The Last Dragon, Taxman and “New York Undercover”.

Selections of Lia’s archive of Asian Pacific Americans in the arts, fashion, journalism, politics and space are now in the newly created LIA CHANG THEATER PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO in the ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN PERFORMING ARTS COLLECTION housed in the Library of Congress Asian Division’s Asian American Pacific Islander Collection.
Lia’s portraits and performance photos have appeared in Vanity Fair, Gourmet, German Elle, Women’s Wear Daily, The Paris Review, TV Guide, Daily Variety, Interior Design, American Theatre, Broadwayworld.com, Life & Style, OUT, New York Magazine, InStyle, Timeout.com, Villagevoice.com, Playbill.com, Theatermania.com, thelmagazine.com, The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, USA Today, The Boston Globe, New York Times and Washington Post. A former syndicated arts and entertainment columnist for KYODO News, Lia is the New York Bureau Chief for AsianConnections.com. She writes about culture, style and Asian American issues for a variety of publications and this Backstage Pass with Lia Chang blog.

All text, graphics, articles & photographs: © 2000-2011 Lia Chang Multimedia. All rights reserved. All materials contained on this site are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of Lia Chang. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. For permission, please contact Lia at liachangpr@gmail.com.

Tina Chilip and Jojo Gonzalez Star in Leviathan Lab’s Dynamic Hong Kong Re-imagining of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night Featuring an All-Asian American Cast, at the Arclight in NY, 11/3-11/19

Jojo Gonzalez

Jojo Gonzalez

Leviathan Lab, an Asian American professional creative studio invested in advancing the careers of Asian American artists, presents its inaugural production, Shakespeare’s TWELFTH NIGHT at the Arclight Theater at 152 West 71st Street, Level 1 between Broadway and Columbus Avenues in Manhattan, November 3 – 19 (Thursday – Saturday, 8pm; Sundays, 2pm; Wednesday, 11.16 at 8pm). The production will feature an all Asian American cast and star Tina Chilip* (Flipzoids, Joy Luck Club) as Viola, and OBIE-award winning actor/musician Jojo Gonzalez* (The Romance of Magno Rubio, “The Smurfs,” and “PanAm”) as Feste the Clown.

Under the direction of Nelson T. Eusebio III (Assistant Director, All’s Well That Ends Well, The Public Theater/NYSF’s Shakespeare in the Park 2011), the seaside city of Illyria harkens to Hong Kong in the 1960’s, where the alluring scent of romance pervades the atmosphere. Viola sets a series of events that create a tangled knot of mistaken identities, bewildering desires, and practical jokes that only time and fortune can untie.

Leviathan Lab’s dynamic vision of TWELFTH NIGHT comes at an exciting time for Asian Americans performers and their audiences in New York, with three Off-Off Broadway productions, four Off-Broadway productions, and Chinglish on Broadway, all comprised of primarily Asian American artistic teams. “Leviathan Lab is the new (and ambitious) kid on the block,” says Tina Chilip. “I am very excited to be a part of this company that is focused on creating innovative Asian American theater, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

“It’s great that Leviathan Lab is pushing for more opportunities for Asian American artists,” says – OBIE award winning Jojo Gonzalez. “When I first started out, it was hard for an Asian American Actor to get cast and perform in classical plays. The opportunities were few. It was unimaginable to even produce Shakespeare with an entire Asian American cast, let alone set the production in a place like Hong Kong unless it was ‘experimental’. I’m glad that Leviathan Lab is continuing this movement, and I’m having a ball being a part of it.”

Along with Ms. Chilip and Mr. Gonzalez, TWELFTH NIGHT stars established and emerging Asian American performers that comprise Leviathan Lab’s acting company: Kurt Uy* as Orsino, Eileen Rivera* as Olivia, Andrew Eisenman* as Malvolio, John Roque* as Sir Toby Belch, Marcus Ho* as Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Karen Tsen Lee* & Ka-Ling Cheung* as Maria (alternating weeks), Chris Doi as Sebastian, Roger Yeh as Fabian, and Eugene Oh as Antonio.

TWELFTH NIGHT has original music by veteran Broadway actor/composer Jason Ma (THE SLY FOX, MISS SAIGON, SHOGUN THE MUSICAL), choreography by Dax Valdes, and sets & costumes by Maiko Chii.

Leviathan Lab’s TWELFTH NIGHT by William Shakespeare is an Actors’ Equity approved showcase production. Tickets are $18 general admission, $15 students and seniors, with special prices for groups of 10 or more.

*Denotes members of Actors’ Equity Association.

ABOUT LEVIATHAN LAB
Leviathan Lab is a professional creative studio founded in 2009 that includes more than 75 Asian-American actors, writers, and directors. Leviathan Lab invests in the advancement of both emerging and established Asian American performing artists by featuring them in new works by Asian American writers, in fresh interpretations of classical plays, and in original works for film, tv and new media. More information can be found at www.leviathanlab.com.

Other Articles by Lia Chang
Photos: Fall Foliage at Devil’s Lake State Park
Photos: Backstage with the Cast of Chinglish and David Henry Hwang at the Longacre Theatre
Cathy Foy-Mahi Plays Bloody Mary in 2011-2012 National Tour of South Pacific
Lia Chang Photos: Opening Night of Mu Performing Arts’ Katie Hae Leo’s Four Destinies
Lia Chang Photos: Backstage at Mu Performing Arts’ Four Destinies by Katie Hae Leo
Tony Award Winner Lea Salonga Leads Stellar Cast in First All-Filipino Concert for Philippine Development Foundation, “PhilDev Celebrates Broadway: Suites by Sondheim” at Alice Tully Hall on 11/7
Art by Nicholas Galanin Featured in Kindred Spirits, Native American Influences on 20th Century Art, at Peter Blum Soho in NY, 10/29/11-1/14/12
Photos: Crossroads’ Ain’t Misbehavin’
Up Close and Personal with Rick Shiomi, Award-winning Playwright and Artistic Director of Mu Performing Arts
Photos: Christine Toy Johnson, Angela Lin, Louis Ozawa Changchien, Jake Manabat, David Shih in Jen Silverman’s Crane Story at The Cherry Lane
Broadwayworld.com Photo Flash: Library of Congress’ IN REHEARSAL Exhibit
Lia Chang Theater Portfolio at Library of Congress Features Photos of Thom Sesma’s Makeup Transformation as Scar in Disney’s The Lion King Las Vegas, Robert Lee and Leon Ko’s Heading East Starring BD Wong, David Henry Hwang’s Chinglish, and Samrat Chakrabarti and Sanjiv Jhaveri’s Bakwas Bumbug! on View Through August 2
Photos of AEA’s Asian Heritage Celebration, featuring the Leviathan Lab Asian American Women Writers Workshop
Photos: David Duchovny, John Earl Jelks, Amanda Peet, Tracee Chimo opening night of Neil LaBute’s The Break of Noon
Click here for the Lia Chang Articles Archive and here for the Lia Chang Photography Website.

Lia Chang Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography

Lia Chang Photo by Brianne Michelle Photography


Lia Chang is an actor, performance and fine art botanical photographer, and an award-winning multimedia journalist.
As a photographer and videographer, Lia collaborates with artists, organizations and companies in establishing their documentary photo archive and social media presence. She has been documenting her colleagues and contemporaries in the arts, fashion and journalism since making her stage debut as Liat in the National Tour of South Pacific, with Robert Goulet and Barbara Eden. Lia currently plays Nurse Lia on “One Life to Live”. She has appeared in Wolf, New Jack City, A Kiss Before Dying, King of New York, Big Trouble in Little China, The Last Dragon, Taxman and “New York Undercover”.
Selections of Lia’s archive of Asian Pacific Americans in the arts, fashion, journalism, politics and space are now in the newly created LIA CHANG THEATER PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO in the ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN PERFORMING ARTS COLLECTION housed in the Library of Congress Asian Division’s Asian American Pacific Islander Collection.
Lia’s portraits and performance photos have appeared in Vanity Fair, Gourmet, German Elle, Women’s Wear Daily, The Paris Review, TV Guide, Daily Variety, Interior Design, American Theatre, Broadwayworld.com, Life & Style, OUT, New York Magazine, InStyle, Timeout.com, Villagevoice.com, Playbill.com, Theatermania.com, thelmagazine.com, The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, USA Today, The Boston Globe, New York Times and Washington Post. A former syndicated arts and entertainment columnist for KYODO News, Lia is the New York Bureau Chief for AsianConnections.com. She writes about culture, style and Asian American issues for a variety of publications and this Backstage Pass with Lia Chang blog.

All text, graphics, articles & photographs: © 2000-2011 Lia Chang Multimedia. All rights reserved. All materials contained on this site are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of Lia Chang. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. For permission, please contact Lia at liachangpr@gmail.com.

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