Podcast Summary: All Of It – Episode with Daniel Dae Kim and David Henry Hwang on the Tony-Nominated Revival of 'Yellowface'

Release Date: June 3, 2025
Host: Alison Stewart
Show: All Of It by WNYC

Introduction to 'Yellowface'

In this episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart engages in an in-depth conversation with David Henry Wong, the playwright of Yellowface, and Daniel Dae Kim, the acclaimed actor who stars in the Tony-nominated revival of the play. Yellowface addresses critical themes surrounding racial representation and identity in theater, drawing from real historical events and personal narratives.

Alison Stewart introduces the play, highlighting its success and significance:

“The revival of the play Yellowface will make you laugh and think, and if you missed it on Broadway, you can catch it streaming now on PBS until June 30th.” (01:32)

Origins and Context

The conversation delves into the historical context that inspired Yellowface. David Henry Wong explains his motivation to protest against the casting practices in Broadway, specifically referencing the controversial casting of a white actor, Jonathan Pryce, in the lead role of Miss Saigon during the 1990s.

“I felt kind of traumatized and I needed to process that. So I decided to write a comedy of mistaken racial identity...” – David Henry Wong (05:02)

Daniel Dae Kim reflects on the necessity of such protests to address the scarcity of opportunities for Asian actors:

“They were necessary because as a young Asian actor, I knew what a dearth of opportunities there were for us.” – Daniel Dae Kim (03:55)

Character Analysis: Dhh

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Daniel Dae Kim’s portrayal of Dhh, the fictionalized version of David Henry Wong. Dhh is portrayed as a complex character grappling with his identity and the consequences of his actions.

Daniel Dae Kim describes Dhh's internal struggles:

“He is a man who is wrestling with this idea of who his authentic self is... what does it require for those masks to come.” – (06:23)

The guests discuss Dhh's flaws, such as hubris and narcissism, and how these traits contribute to the character’s development and the play’s narrative.

“A lot of hubris, really. And really trying to protect his reputation as an Asian American role model...” – David Henry Wong (07:18)

Casting and Representation

The revival of Yellowface brings fresh perspectives on casting, addressing inclusivity and diversity. The play features a white actor in the lead Asian role, a deliberate choice that sparks conversations about representation in modern theater.

David Henry Wong explains the evolution of the play's casting:

“In the original production, the casting was essentially binary... we wanted this production to be more inclusive.” – (16:32)

The discussion touches on contemporary casting practices, such as actors of color portraying characters of different ethnicities, and the impact of these choices on audience perception and inclusivity.

“We're pretty used now to actors of color playing white people... but what will it mean for actors of color to play other characters of color...” – David Henry Wong (16:32)

Personal Stories and Themes

The interplay between personal narratives and broader societal issues is a cornerstone of Yellowface. Daniel Dae Kim shares insights into Dhh's relationship with his father, reflecting the generational differences in the Asian American experience.

“When you have preconceived notions based on how they look... that's not just Asian Americans.” – Daniel Dae Kim (24:52)

David Henry Wong relates the character's struggles to real-life events, such as the Wen Ho Lee case, emphasizing the persistent stereotypes faced by Asian Americans.

“...relevant in 2024 is that we are currently going through one of those periods... similar to the Wen Ho Lee character...” – (20:36)

Impact and Relevance

The play serves as both entertainment and a historical commentary, aiming to educate audiences about pivotal moments in Asian American history. Daniel Dae Kim underscores the importance of such narratives in shaping public understanding and fostering empathy.

“Those who don't know who David Henry Huang is... it's important that they do, because very often we're considered the silent minority...” – (22:20)

David Henry Wong highlights the play’s role in expanding Broadway’s audience and redefining the American theatrical canon:

“...pieces like Yellowface... are so important in expanding our audiences...” – (23:56)

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a poignant reminder of the play's availability on PBS and its significance in contemporary discourse on race and representation. Both David Henry Wong and Daniel Dae Kim emphasize the dual purpose of Yellowface: to entertain and to provoke thoughtful discussion on important cultural and historical issues.

“I think if it spurs people to say what was that Vincent Chin story all about?... then I think we're serving a dual purpose.” – Daniel Dae Kim (22:20)

Notable Quotes:

• David Henry Wong on writing Yellowface:

  “I needed to make him a character. So, yes, there are ways in which he's like me and then there are things that happen because it helps the plot...” (07:44)

• Daniel Dae Kim on the challenges of performing without intermission:

  “There's no time to think about that now... it's been a great challenge.” (09:50)

• Alison Stewart on the play being a "shape shifter":

  “...starts out as sort of a documentary, it turns into just all out farce and then it becomes sort of political and then it becomes very personal.” – (11:26)

This episode of All Of It offers a compelling exploration of Yellowface, shedding light on the complexities of racial representation in theater and the personal journeys that inform such narratives. Through engaging dialogue and insightful reflections, Stewart, Wong, and Kim provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the play's themes and its relevance in today's cultural landscape.