“Crazy Talented Asians: Nisei Week,” curated and produced by AJ Rafael in partnership with East West Players and the Nisei Week Foundation, will be presented on Saturday, Aug. 16, at 8 p.m. at the David Henry Hwang Theater, 120 Judge John Aiso St. in Little Tokyo.
As part of the iconic Nisei Week Japanese Festival, this one-night-only event spotlights the best and brightest Asian American talent on stage today.
“Crazy Talented Asians: Nisei Week” is a vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and identity in the heart of Little Tokyo. Curated and hosted by music director and YouTube sensation AJ Rafael, the evening features powerhouse performances by Broadway stars, acclaimed poets, rising musicians, and special surprise guests — many of whom trace their roots back to the East West Players stage.
This is more than just a concert. It’s a homecoming for artists who have helped shape AAPI arts and a high-energy showcase of the talent redefining what’s possible for Asian Americans in the performing arts.
Featuring:
Grace Yoo (“Hadestown” on Broadway, “Soft Power,” “Mamma Mia!” at EWP)
Jasmine Rafael (“& Juliet” on Broadway, choreographer for “Assassins” at EWP)
Justine Rafael (“Spring Awakening,” “On This Side of the World” at EWP)
Aman K. Batra (acclaimed poet and TEDx speaker)
Haven Everly (Netflix’s “You,” “The L Word,” “The Girl Who Left Home”)
Alyssa Rafael (Forbes “30 Under 30,” Disney+ Launchpad producer)
8eyes (L.A.-based singer/songwriter duo)
Allen “Lucky” Weaver (SoCal theater artist and EWP casting director)
Leah Lewis (Netflix’s “The Half of It,” Pixar’s “Elemental”)
EWP “Spring Awakening” cast reunion, including Thomas Winter, Mia Sempertegui, Jaylen Baham, and Madi Grepo
And more special and surprise guests.
Tickets: www.eastwestplayers.org/cta2025