Join the Democracy Center for Women of Flower Drum Song, which brings together extraordinary performers from across the musical’s history to explore how representation in the arts expands our understanding of belonging, strengthens civic identity, and reminds us that American culture is built from many cultures.
Artists from the original Broadway production, the classic film adaptation, the 2002 Broadway revival, and the upcoming 2026 production will share their stories in a dynamic, multigenerational conversation—celebrating the artists who paved the way and inviting us to consider how the arts help create a more inclusive and vibrant democracy.
The program will also feature special performances by stars of the upcoming East West Players production, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience the legacy and future of this groundbreaking musical in one unforgettable evening.
The program will be hosted by Tamlyn Tomita and feature guests Lily Tung Crystal, Helen Funai Erickson, Nancy Kwan, Lainie Sakakura, Irene Tsu, Grace Yoo, Krista Marie Yu.
This program is made possible through the support of East West Players and Nikkei Women Legacy Association.
Bios
Lily Tung Crystal
Lily Tung Crystal is a director, actor/singer, and the artistic director of East West Players. She is honored and grateful to be directing Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Flower Drum Song with its newly revised 2026 book by David Henry Hwang, premiering at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center’s Aratani Theatre in April 2026.
Helen Funai Erickson
Helen Funai Erickson is a dancer, actress, choreographer, and director whose career spanned Broadway, television, film, and choreography, including Flower Drum Song, The Dean Martin Show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, Days of Our Lives and more. Her work embodies resilience, talent, and the enduring power of performance.
Nancy Kwan
Nancy Kwan is an actress, filmmaker, and dedicated political activist best known for her groundbreaking performances in The World of Suzie Wong and Flower Drum Song. Her contributions to film and representation have been recognized with numerous honors, including the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Asian Hall of Fame.
Lainie Sakakura
Lainie Sakakura is the daughter of Norio Sakakura, a Rohwer concentration camp survivor, and Yukiko Sakakura, who played Mei Li in a 1971 production of Flower Drum Song. She has built a dynamic career as a director, librettist, award-winning choreographer, and three-time Tony-nominated Broadway co-producer of Gypsy, Suffs, and Cabaret.
Tamlyn Tomita
Tamlyn Tomita is an artist, activist, and actor best known for her role as Kumiko in The Karate Kid Part 2 alongside actors Noriyuki “Pat” Morita and Nobu McCarthy, and whose stories continue on Cobra Kai. Other films include Ultraman: Rising, The Joy Luck Club, The Day After Tomorrow, and more.
Irene Tsu
Irene Tsu is a trailblazing actress whose career spans Broadway, Hollywood, and the visual arts. The 1961 film adaptation of Flower Drum Song launched her career at a time when opportunities for Asian American actresses were rare, and later led to appearances in film and television, building a body of work that reflects glamour and grit.
Grace Yoo
Grace Yoo plays Mei Li in East West Players’ production of Flower Drum Song, bringing a heartfelt appreciation for the women who have carried this story before her and a commitment to honoring that legacy while making the role her own. Her path to this moment is shaped by a deep love of musical storytelling and a career that spans Broadway, regional stages, and celebrated Asian American theater institutions.
Krista Marie Yu
Krista Marie Yu grew up watching Flower Drum Song and has long been inspired by the artists behind the 1961 film and 2002 Broadway revival. She is honored to step into the role of Linda Low and to celebrate the extraordinary women of Flower Drum Song who paved monumental paths for generations to follow. She is known for the television series Reboot, Last Man Standing, and Dr. Ken.