Musical Examines Asian Diaspora in Strub Theatre

The Theatre Arts Program at Loyola Marymount University will present "Rise to the Top," a modern musical by Weiko Lin, graduate director of Screenwriting, with public staged readings and performances from Dec. 4-7 in the newly renovated Strub Theatre.

After attending a staged reading of the songs earlier this year, Theatre Arts Chair Leon Wiebers invited Lin to bring this production to fruition at LMU as part of the Theatre Program's ongoing development of new work. Wiebers and Lin have since created a team of staff, students, and alumni that will bring "Rise to the Top"to life.

"We are thrilled to be able to highlight this collaboration between colleges and programs enabling us to provide unique and professional experiences for our students in the development of a new, exciting musical for the American Stage," said Wiebers.

Directed by Emmy-winner Henry Chan, the musical features 30 original songs and tells the story of an immigrant chef's dramatic rise to fame while confronting themes of identity and sacrifice. This interdisciplinary collaboration between LMU School of Film and Television and LMU College of Communication and Fine Arts highlights the Asian diaspora experience and will welcome industry guests to celebrate the landmark production.

"It's a homage to who we are; we are who we are because of our parents and ancestors … Audiences should walk away with a feeling of hope and knowing that they're always with you, that their memory can actually strengthen and empower us," Lin said.

The musical unfolds in Hong Kong and Los Angeles, following a young immigrant's journey to achieve the American Dream as a celebrity chef while navigating cultural identity, adapting to a new society, and struggling with great sacrifice. After crafting this story during the COVID-19 pandemic in response to an increase in anti-Asian hate along with composer Christopher Wong, Lin will finally see his vision come to life on the LMU stage this winter season.

Opening night will be the first public reading of both Lin's book and lyrics and the original music and lyrics written by Christopher Wong. The reception will be co-sponsored by LMU College of Communication and Fine Arts and LMU School of Film and Television.