An Asian-American musical about forbidden love has made its world premiere at The Pasadena Playhouse.
Waterfall tells the story of Thai student Noppon (played by Thai superstar Bie Sukrit) falling in love with an American woman, Katherine (Emily Padgett), who is married to a Thai diplomat named Chao-Kun (Thom Sesma).
Set in the 1930s, the story parallels history as the new democracy of Siam moves into the vortex of Japan before World War II.
Noppon and Katherine meet in Japan when Chao-Kun arrives to attend to a treaty between Siam and Japan. Their relationship develops following an evening walk home and as Noppon shows Katherine around Japan.
In addition to a romantic storyline, Waterfall offers refreshing humor through an Asian perspective.
For instance, Nuan (Filipino-American actress J. Elaine Marcos), a Thai servant to Chao-Kun, comically states how it is not her place to offer her opinion or speak unless spoken to. Nuan also attempts to teach Katherine how to be Thai by sitting a certain way, among other actions.
Differences in the Thai and American cultures are highlighted in Waterfall, as Noppon and Katherine express interest in each others’ customs. Among these include Katherine’s fascination with how Thai people say hello by pressing their palms together and slightly bowing, while Noppon is convinced that the American handshake is a better way to greet another person.
The production also features vibrant sets and pieces—including a running waterfall and Japanese tables and lanterns, intricate and colorful costumes reflective of the cultures involved in the storyline—such as glittering traditional Thai head pieces, and a skilled orchestra. Furthermore, the music in Waterfall was composed by Oscar winner and two-time Tony Award nominee David Shire. Lyrics were written by Tony Award-winner Richard Maltby Jr.
Waterfall showcases a diverse 20-person team and cast touted by director Tak Viravan.
“I am so excited and thrilled to be working with this beautiful and talented cast, and I feel blessed to be among this amazing creative team, many of whom I have been idolizing ever since I knew musical theatre,” Viravan said in a statement. Waterfall has been a wonderful journey and I’m sure it will continue to be so. I hope its beauty will touch everyone who comes to experience it. It is such a beautiful and special world.”
Sheldon Epps, artistic director of The Pasadena Playhouse, offered positive words toward the production.
“We are blessed to have brought together a tremendously gifted company for this world premiere production,” Epps said in a statement.
Waterfall is based on contemporary classic Thai novel Behind the Painting by Sriburapha.
The musical runs until Sunday, June 28. Asian Journal readers can receive a 20 percent discount by using the code AJ20 for tickets purchased online and via phone. More information about the production is available online at PasadenaPlayhouse.org.
