Theatre Esprit Asia Begins Inaugural Season 5/30

In the summer of 2012, while celebrating the success of Vintage Theater's production of "The Joy Luck Club," cast mates Tria Xiong and Maria Cheng sparked an idea for a new venture. After a glass of wine [or two], they realized with utter certainty, the need for an Asian American company in Colorado's theater climate, and thus, like all great wine-induced ideas, Theatre Esprit Asia (TEA) was born.

Maria Cheng says, "Theatre Esprit Asia (TEA) is an idea overdue to happen. The national Asian American theatre movement has been for years waiting and wanting a presence in the Rocky Mountains region. Well, finally we are here, due to phenomenal grass roots support from Colorado's Asian American theatre artists and enthusiasts. The response has been humbling and TEA aims to fulfill the expectations of bringing passionate, truthful and humorous narratives on the contemporary human condition, inspired by the wisdom of the Asian cultures."

Tria Xiong proudly states, "Part of TEA's mission is to present original voices as well as produce plays by established playwrights. Our first season features critically acclaimed plays that draw from the great traditions of China, Japan and Korea. In our second season, to fulfill the latter part of our mission, we will produce David Henry Hwang's Pulitzer prize winning drama "M. Butterfly," Lisa Loomer's poignant "The Waiting Room" and Phillip Gotanda's "Yohen."

"Spirit & Sworded Treks," directed by Maria Cheng & Tria Xiong, plays in repertory with "Dust Storm," directed by Paragon Theatre founder Warren Sherrill from May 30 through June 23. Then from October 24 to November 17, TEA presents Julia Cho's "99 Histories" directed by Henry-Award winner Christy Montour-Larson

Season tickets are currently on sale for this 3-play series at $48 Adult; $43 Students/Seniors 60+ or with six *ACE tickets for $72 Adult; $65 Students/Seniors 60+. Single tickets are $17 Adult/ $15 Students/Seniors 60+ (Advance purchase); $20 at the door. Tickets are available by calling 303-856-7830 or online at www.theatre-esprit-asia.org. All performances are held at Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St., Aurora 80010

*ACE - Asian American Cabaret Events $5 - gourmet tea and snacks provided.