LOS ANGELES (AP) — David Chiu’s mother comes from a long line of Lithuanian Jews; his father is an immigrant from Hong Kong. For most of his life, the 42-year-old Southern Californian has felt like he “never completely belonged in either world.” It wasn’t until a few years ago, when he sat in a room with eight people who were Asian and Jewish, that he realized there were others who held those .
“We’re not like oil and water that don’t mix,” he said. “Asian Jews are like pieces of a puzzle that fit together, and they produce really interesting individual pictures.” Chiu is a producer on a show titled “What Do I Do with All This Heritage?” that will present 14 true stories showcasing the unique, often little-known experiences of Asian American Jews.
The stage production is a collaboration between The Braid, a 16-year-old story-telling company that highlights , and The LUNAR Collective, which was founded in 2020 and is the only national organization for Asian American Jews. Chiu has roles in both groups. Shows will run through June 9 in Los Angeles, San Francisco and via Zoom.
May marks the celebration of both Asian American and Jewish American heritage. The stories capture the rich diversity among Asian American Jews, with subjects ranging in age from 12 to 75. The production has no sets, props or costumes.
It brings these true stories to life with poignant moments, humor, romance, music, and most importantly hope and joy, Chiu said. “This is like a .
