Ballad of Yachiyo

By: Philip Kan Gotanda

Narrated by: Sab Shimono, June Angela, full cast

This tale of illicit passion, set among the lush cane fields of the Hawaiian islands in 1919, was inspired by a true incident in the playwright's family. Beautiful 16-year-old Yachiyo reluctantly leaves her impoverished parents to live with sophisticated relatives. Yachiyo's mother hopes she will learn the Japanese tea ceremony and other refinements that will help attract a wealthy husband. But as Yachiyo acquires civilized graces from her hostess, Okusan, she also struggles with a growing passion for Okusan's handsome, dissolute husband. Performed by a full cast starring Sab Shimono, June Angela, Greg Watanabe, Takayo Fischer, Dian Kobayashi, Lane Nishikawa, and Annie Lee.(P)1996 L.A. Theatre Works; All Rights Reserved