East West Players (EWP), the nation’s largest and longest-running Asian American theater, has announced an extension of the Los Angeles premiere of Cambodian Rock Band through March 23, 2025. This decision follows overwhelming audience demand and critical acclaim for Lauren Yee’s groundbreaking play, presented in collaboration with Outside In Theatre.
A Story of Resilience and Music
Opening in February 2025, Cambodian Rock Band has captivated audiences with its fusion of theater and live music, narrating the gripping journey of a Khmer Rouge survivor returning to Cambodia after three decades. The production features the psychedelic sounds of LA-based band Dengue Fever, a musical component that has resonated deeply with Los Angeles County’s Cambodian community—the largest outside of Cambodia.
“The response to Cambodian Rock Band has been extraordinary,” said EWP Artistic Director Lily Tung Crystal. “This extension allows more audiences to experience this powerful story of family, survival, and the redemptive power of music.”
Cast and Creative Team
The acclaimed cast includes:
- Kelsey Angel Baehrens as Neary/Sothea
- Abraham Kim as Rom/Journalist
- Tim Liu as Ted/Leng
- Jane Lui as Pou/Guard
- Joe Ngo as Chum
- Daisuke Tsuji as Duch
Production understudies include Zandi De Jesus, Alex Hsu, and Kevin Vann. Directed by Chay Yew, this production marks his fourteenth collaboration with EWP. Yew previously directed the world premiere at South Coast Repertory and the off-Broadway run at Signature Theatre.
Commitment to the Cambodian Community
In alignment with EWP’s mission of inclusivity, over 20% of seats have been reserved and subsidized for Khmer audiences. Members of the greater LA Khmer community interested in discounted tickets can contact the Khmer Alumni Association at [email protected].
Performance Details and Ticket Information
Performances are held at The David Henry Hwang Theater, located at 120 Judge John Aiso Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, in the historic Little Tokyo neighborhood. Showtimes are:
- Thursdays (March 6 and all extension weeks), Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 PM
- Saturdays at 2 PM (Masked Matinees for immunocompromised audiences)
- Sundays at 5 PM
Tickets and EWP’s 60th Anniversary Season Memberships are available at eastwestplayers.org or by calling (213) 625-7000.
About East West Players
Founded in 1965, East West Players has championed Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) representation in entertainment, working to dismantle stereotypes and increase inclusion. Designated by the Ford Foundation as one of America’s Cultural Treasures, EWP remains dedicated to expanding AAPI stories on stage and beyond. For more information, visit eastwestplayers.org.
Supporting Organizations
The Perenchio Foundation, Dwight Stuart Youth Fund, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, California Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and numerous generous donors support East West Players.
