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