Olympic Story THREE YEAR SWIM CLUB Returns By Popular Demand At East West Players, Through 8/19

The popular and critically-acclaimed production THREE YEAR SWIM CLUB has returned to East West Players (EWP) for a second run. This play is inspired by the true life story of legendary swim coach Soichi Sakamoto, who trained Maui youth for the Olympics in the plantation irrigation ditches. Set on the island of Maui in the 1930's, this heartwarming play turns transcendent as the art of hula becomes the metaphor for competitive swimming.

"In the spirit of the Summer Olympics, this production dives into an inspiring story of perseverance, dedication and heart – experiences and memories of small-town kids with a dream of Olympic proportions." says producing artistic director Tim Dang.  

THREE YEAR SWIM CLUB is presented in association with the Hawaiian Inter-Club Council of Southern California and the Honolulu Theatre for Youth.

The Hawaiian Inter-Club Council of Southern California (HICCSC) is an association of Hawaiian cultural groups that works to preserve and build awareness of Hawaiian culture. HICCSC is also the host organization of the Ho'olaule'a Hawaiian festival, which was recently held at Alondra Park. Two of HICCSC’s additional projects include the development of the Pacific American Community Cultural Center and the Native Hawaiian Registry program, KAKAU NOA to help serve the needs of native Hawaiians.   

Honolulu Theatre for Youth (HTY) produces professional theatre and drama education programs that make a difference in the lives of young people, families and educators in the state of Hawai‘i. HTY is committed to producing shows that are about and for the people of Hawaii.  HTY has served over five million people through school and family performances and drama education programs. Over 300 new plays for young audiences have been commissioned by HTY. Specifically, HTY produces six to seven productions yearly, each targeted to a specific age range (pre-K, grades K – 3, 4 – 6, 7 – 12). Four of the plays tours statewide. In many cases, HTY’s work is the only professional theatre that children see each year.

Written by Lee Tonouchi, this production is directed and choreographed by Keo Woolford. The original cast of Jared Asato, Kelsey Chock, Kaliko Kauahi, Blake Kushi, Mapuana Makia, and Chris Takemoto-Gentile will reprise their roles of the famed Coach and his Olympic hopefuls.

All performances will be staged at the David Henry Hwang Theater at the Union Center for the Arts at 120 Judge John Aiso St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. THREE YEAR SWIM CLUB currently runs July 27-August 19th. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 2PM and 8PM, and Sundays at 2PM. A great opportunity for youth groups, summer camps and more. Please contact East West Players for group sales details.

General admission tickets range from $26-36. For ticket purchases or more information, please call East West Players at (213) 625-7000 or visit www.eastwestplayers.org. Senior, student, and group discounts are available. Dates, prices, and details are subject to change.

East West Players (EWP) is the nation’s largest producing organization of Asian American artistic work AND the longest-running professional theatre of color in the country. The 2012-2013 season marks EWP’s 47th Anniversary season.

 

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