Virginia Wing is still actively working and recently appeared in the developmental reading of the new musical The Dragon Empress of China, presented by The York Theatre as part of its Developmental Reading Series.
The reading took place in New York City and offered audiences an early look at the new musical with book and lyrics by Bryan Leys and music by Donald Stark, directed by Austin Ku with music direction by Alex Ngo.
Blending show tunes, swing, and traditional Chinese music, The Dragon Empress of China reimagined imperial history through the lens of 1942 San Francisco’s Forbidden City Nightclub. The story followed the rise of Empress Dowager Cixi while spotlighting the experiences of Chinese performers navigating racism and the realities of show business.
Virginia Wing joined a dynamic ensemble in this developmental reading, contributing to the ongoing development of a new musical centered on Asian and Asian American stories in musical theatre. The reading also starred Paolo Montalban, Kai An Chee, Jay Paranada, Viveca Chow, Kuppi Jessop and Jake Manabat.
