Celebrating the AANHPI Experience
Theatre Diaspora is Oregon’s only professional Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) theatre company, committed to portraying authentic AAPI cultural, historical, and social perspectives to reach broad audiences. By strongly advocating through compelling performances and post-show discussions, we are bridging communities to foster inclusion, social-awareness, and open conversations on race and cultural diversity – celebrating the AAPI experience.
Exotic Deadly: Or The MSG Play by Keiko Green
Saturday, December 7, 2024 7:30pm
Reed Performing Arts Building, Performance Lab (128)
3203 Southeast Woodstock Boulevard, Portland, Oregon 97202
Exotic Deadly: Or The MSG Play by Keiko Green is a comedic play that dives into the complexities of identity and misinformation. Set in 1999, the story follows Ami, a 14-year-old Japanese-American girl, who just wants to fit in despite feeling disconnected from her heritage. When she discovers that her family has a history tied to MSG—a substance blamed for “Chinese Restaurant Syndrome”—Ami confronts the myths, prejudices, and identity crises that shape her world. With humor and a dash of surrealism, Exotic Deadly explores cultural misconceptions and the challenges of navigating multiple identities in America.
Directed by Kate Duffly
Staged Readings and Panel Discussions
Theatre Diaspora takes pride in its commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue and education through the creation of enhanced staged readings followed by engaging panel discussions. Beyond mere performances, our enhanced staged readings serve as immersive experiences, where the audience is captivated by the power of storytelling. These readings are carefully curated to amplify underrepresented voices, particularly those within the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. Following each compelling reading, we seamlessly transition into thought-provoking panel discussions. These discussions serve as a bridge between the narratives presented on stage and the real-world issues they illuminate. Our aim is not only to entertain but to initiate conversations that spark awareness, understanding, and empathy. Through this dual approach of enhanced staged readings and panel discussions, Theatre Diaspora creates events that go beyond the theatrical, transforming our space into a dynamic platform for conversation, education, and community engagement.
Writers Lab
Welcome to our vibrant AAPI Writers Lab, a dynamic physical space where creativity flourishes and connections thrive. Within this unique environment, each participant embarks on their individual literary journey, crafting stories that resonate with the diverse tapestry of the Asian American and Pacific Islander experience. Think of it as an adult study hall for writers, a shared haven for inspiration and focus. Collective creativity fills the air as writers delve into their narratives, fueled by the supportive energy of fellow creators. It’s more than a workspace; it’s a community, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and the exploration of distinct AAPI voices. Join us in this nurturing environment, where ideas come to life, and the power of storytelling is celebrated in every corner of our all AAPI Writers Lab.
Join Our Newsletter:
Theatre Diaspora is made possible with generous support from:
Ronni Lacroute
Eric Wan and Michele Goodman Fund
Fred W. Fields Fund of Oregon Community Foundation
Daryl L. and Patricia L. Swenson Fund
First Interstate Bank and Foundation