The musical will kick off its run at the Aratani Theatre on April 16. (photo courtesy of East West Players)

East West Players announced the ensemble and understudy cast for the world premiere of Tony-winner David Henry Hwang’s refreshed adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Flower Drum Song.” Helmed by EWP Artistic Director Lily Tung Crystal, the reimagined golden-age musical will open April 16 at the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center’s Aratani Theatre, serving as the grand finale of EWP’s 60th Anniversary Diamond Legacy season and the final production before the 880-seat venue undergoes a major renovation.

Joining the previously announced principal cast and creative team, the ensemble and understudy cast includes Joven Calloway, Ethan Yaheen-Moy Chan, IJay Espinoza, Sierra Goria, Sally Hong, Tony Jin, Esther Lee, Brian Liebson, Emma Park, Gemma Pedersen, Avelina Sanchez, Hillary Tang, Ai Toyoshima, Haoyi Wen and Paul Wong.

Set against the backdrop of 1960s San Francisco Chinatown, Hwang’s 2026 revision of “Flower Drum Song” explores themes of immigration, assimilation, tradition and community with renewed urgency and heart. The story follows Mei-Li, a young Chinese opera performer fleeing communism, as she arrives in America and is drawn into the vibrant world of the Grant Avenue nightclubs. Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein’s classic songs and beloved characters make their long-awaited return to Los Angeles for the first time since the premiere of Hwang’s adaptation at Center Theatre Group’s Mark Taper Forum over 20 years ago.

The Aratani Theatre is located at the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, in the heart of historic Little Tokyo. Opening night will take place on Thursday, April 23, at 7 p.m. Regular performances are on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with additional select weekday shows and matinees on Saturdays and Sundays. All Saturday 2 p.m. shows will be designated as “Masked Matinees,” offering a more comfortable environment for patrons who prefer a masked experience. A pay-what-you-will performance date will be announced in late April. Special events include student night on April 30 and an artist talkback following the performance on April 26.

Single tickets are available online at eastwestplayers.org or by calling (213)625-7000. Tickets for preview performances start at $59, and regular performance tickets start at $99. For information, visit eastwestplayers.org.

The Aratani Theatre is located at 244 San Pedro St.