Interview: Joan Chen on I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE by Tokyo International Players

Joan Chen has been a stage manager and actor in Tokyo since 2017. Her involvement in Tokyo International Players (TIP) productions includes THE GOOD PERSON OF SZECHUAN, CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG, and SPRING AWAKENING. Joan is also currently the publicity committee chair of Tokyo International Players.

Could you tell me about Tokyo International Players?

TIP is an English theater group based in Tokyo, Japan, established in 1896. We do English language-only productions in Japan. There are usually three performances a year, one musical and two straight plays. We are really trying to build an English theater community in the area, trying to get people to come together and do something we love.

What do you think is the best part of being part of Tokyo International Players?

The best part about being part of TIP is the community. TIP is a community that enjoys the same thing – theater. I was really lonely during the first six months after moving to Tokyo and after joining TIP, I have definitely formed a lot of connections and made a lot of friends. These connections really helped me to settle into Japan.

How did you find out about Tokyo International Players?

I found it online via their website. I wanted to know the theater in this area and I googled “English Theatre in Japan”. It popped up and I volunteered.

Any message to those who haven't seen any Tokyo International Players productions yet but interested in?

Definitely. Actually, last time when we did “Pride and Prejudice,” there was a girl who showed up and has never been to a theater performance before. She was really nervous but ended up having a great time. All I can say is that TIP is a very open and welcoming community, and we are very accepting. So there is nothing to worry about. Come watch us, have fun, and if you have any questions, the staff will be happy to help you.

Let’s talk about the upcoming production, “I LOVE YOU YOU’RE PERFECT NOW CHANGE”. Which part do you like about this show?

The original concept of the story is ”I love you and I think you're perfect, but now change to make me happy.” That’s a comedy part of it. However with this particular production, Jon (Director) also wants to focus on the fact that we also change for those we love. So when you are getting into a relationship or a marriage, it's not like you're only trying to change them but you also are being changed by them, and I think that message is really beautiful.

What do you think is a key highlight of this show?

The original show came out in 1996 and back then, when people talk about relationships, it is usually between a man and a woman. However, Jon really added in a lot of modern aspects to it, like the use of cell phones and the use of social media. On top of that, he also added same-sex couples to the show. So instead of having every couple being the opposite gender, you’ll see gay couples and lesbian couples. I think that’s really cool.

Any message to those who are interested in this show?

I think people should come. I hope when people come, they can find little pieces of themselves on stage portrayed by us, no matter if it's personality or the situation. And I hope they can have a good time.

Photo Credit :[Jun Woo]

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