Empire of the Son

Acclaimed Drama
Separated by a generation, connected by blood

EMPIRE OF THE SON

By Tetsuro Shigematsu
Directed by Richard Wolfe
Produced by Vancouver Asian Canadian Theatre

November 8 - 17, 2018 • Studio B
Tickets only $29

Two Generations and the Silence Between Them

In this acclaimed autobiographical one-man show, Tetsuro Shigematsu (former host of CBC Radio’s The Roundup) tells the dynamic tale of an emotionally distant father, Akira, whose legacy is felt beyond his lifetime. Empire of the Son sold out its entire 2015 world premiere run and was named the ‘Best Theatre Show of 2015’ by the Vancouver Sun. It was also sold out during the 2016 remount prior to opening.  

From the ashes of Hiroshima to swinging 1960s London, Empire of the Son shows how Akira's incredible personal history has influenced two generations. Tetsuro paints an intimate portrait of the evolving connection between father and son, and the deep-seated love for one another that they both struggle to express. Though separated by language, culture and history, what truly keeps father and son apart is their similarities.

Empire of the Son is a funny, emotional, and deeply thoughtful portrayal of the profound bond between a father and son. It is a reminder that no matter how far we journey out into the world to find ourselves – across decades and continents – we will never stop being our parents' children.

"A powerful display of emotion...a riveting theatrical experience." - Vancouver Sun

Audience considerations: Mature subject matter. Recommended age: 12+

SHOW TIMES & SPECIAL EVENTS

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ARTISTIC TEAM

*With the generous support of Canadian Actors' Equity Association

PRESS COVERAGE

"Tetsuro Shigematsu’s Empire of the Son is exquisite"- Colin Thomas,The Georgia Straight
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"Empire of the Son is understated perfection"- Cecilia Lu,VanCity Buzz
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"Grief stripped raw in all its beauty: One man show is a powerful display of emotion"- Erika Thorkelson,Vancouver Sun 

"Empire of the Son: Tetsuro Shigematsu walks in the shadow of his father"- Kelsey Klaseen,Westender