top of page
[Press Release]

American Idiot in ASL Coming to Los Angeles Oct. 2

Center Theatre Group and Deaf West Theatre Present an Electrifying ASL-Powered Production of American Idiot at Mark Taper Forum



The iconic rock musical American Idiot, with music by Green Day and lyrics by Billie Joe Armstrong, is being reimagined through a collaboration between Center Theatre Group and Deaf West Theatre. Running from October 2 to November 10, 2024, at the Mark Taper Forum, this production features both English and American Sign Language (ASL), offering an inclusive experience for Deaf and hearing audiences.


Directed by Snehal Desai, American Idiot tells the story of characters grappling with themes of identity and rebellion, accompanied by Green Day’s well-known score. The production combines traditional choreography by Jennifer Weber and ASL choreography by Colin Analco to create a performance that breaks boundaries.


"This production of American Idiot challenges us to stretch the canvas of traditional theatre, painting new possibilities by connecting the material to Deaf characters and digital innovation. The expressive power of American Sign Language will bring a vibrant symphony of meaning and emotion to the songs of Green Day," said David Kurs, Artistic Director of Deaf West Theatre.


The cast features a mix of Deaf and hearing actors, including Daniel Durant as Johnny, Milo Manheim as the voice of Johnny, and Tyler Hardwick as the voice of Tunny.


"This explosive musical will take on a whole new meaning when we join forces with our friends at Deaf West Theatre, for the fourth time in our history, to tell this punk rock and wholly American musical tale in both English and American Sign Language," added Snehal Desai, Artistic Director of Center Theatre Group. "Pair that with the timing of what is sure to be a memorable election year, and we have the makings of what I believe truly great theatre should be all about: timely, resonant, boundary-pushing, inclusive, and electrifying."


This marks the fourth collaboration between Center Theatre Group and Deaf West Theatre, and it promises to be a memorable experience for all.

Here is a list of the cast and crew of American Idiot in ASL in Los Angeles:


Cast:

  • Daniel Durant – Johnny

  • Milo Manheim – Voice of Johnny

  • Tyler Hardwick – Voice of Tunny

  • Will Branner – Favorite Son / Ensemble

  • Jerusha Cavazos – Voice of Extraordinary Girl

  • Lark Detweiler – Ensemble / Dance Captain

  • Kaia T. Fitzgerald – Extraordinary Girl / Ensemble

  • Landen Gonzales – Tunny

  • Otis Jones IV – Will

  • Josue Martinez – Theo / Ensemble

  • Giovanni Maucere – Swing

  • James Olivas – Voice of Will

  • Mason Alexander Park – St. Jimmy

  • Monika Pena – Ensemble

  • Mars Storm Rucker – Whatshername

  • Mia Sempertegui – Swing

  • Angel Theory – Ensemble

  • Ali Fumiko Whitney – Heather


Crew:

  • Snehal Desai – Director

  • David O – Music Director

  • Jennifer Weber – Choreographer

  • Colin Analco – ASL Choreographer

  • Takeshi Kata – Scenic Designer

  • Karyn Lawrence – Lighting Designer

  • Lena Sands – Costume Designer

  • Cricket Myers – Sound Designer

  • David Murakami – Projection Designer

  • Amelia Hensley – Associate ASL Choreographer

  • Alek Lev – ASL Assistant

  • Janelle Dote – Associate Choreographer

  • Kate Schaaf & Maya Channer – Associate Scenic Designers

  • Daniella Maucere – ASL Music Associate

  • Diana Herrera – Lighting Associate

  • Christopher Bratten – Associate Music Director

  • Danica Martino – Costume Associate

  • Shelia Dorn – Hair & Makeup Designer

  • Amelia Anello – Assistant Sound Designer


Tickets for "American Idiot" are available now: https://www.deafwest.org/americanidiot

October 2 - November 10, 2024 | Mark Taper Forum, Los Angeles



bottom of page