The Theatre for Youth at the East West Players is presenting two shows of Born to Lead: The Susan Ahn Cuddy Story this April. Written by Vivian Keh-Hue and directed by Jennifer Chang (Our American Voice and Animals Out of Paper), this 45-minute production follows the life of Susan Ahn Cuddy, the first Asian American woman to join the U.S. Armed Forces, and was the first female aerial gunnery officer in the U.S. Navy.

The East West Players Theatre wrote, “Despite the challenges facing women and minorities of her generation, Susan Ahn Cuddy never took for granted the sacrifices of her democracy. Through her choices and actions, Susan forged a life characterized by fearlessness and integrity, qualities which we attribute to our heroes. Indeed, in all spheres of her fascinating life, she was a trailblazer and her story merits telling.”

The play features Rich Lee, James Han Liu, Irene Park, and Kathleen Park, with costume design by Nancy Wei, sound design by Howard Ho, and props by Naomi Kasahara.

In addition, there are two free public performances: South Pasadena Library on Friday, March 27 at 7 p.m. and the Burbank Public Library on Tuesday, March 31 at 7 p.m.

Earlier this month, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously declared Tuesday, March 10, 2015, as Susan Ahn Cuddy Day, in honor of the 100-year-old Korean American pioneer and patriot. To find out more about Susan, please click here.

For more information on the EWP shows, please contact Arts Education Director Marilyn Tokuda or (213) 625-7000 x 15.

Born to Lead: The Susan Ahn Cuddy Story is sponsored by Dwight Stuart Youth Fund, Department of Cultural Affairs and the California Community Foundation.