It's no wonder this version of Flower Drum Song had a short life on Broadway. When someone first suggested that all these great Asian actors around town (from Miss Saigon) could easily populate a production of Flower Drum Song, it must have seemed like an inspired idea. In fact, some moments in the show are inspired. First off, it's nice to see an Asian musical composed of 90 percent Asian actors.
The best one of the bunch, of course, is Lea Salonga. This is a star turn, and Salonga doesn't disappoint. She is ideal as Mei-Li, the wide-eyed, fresh-faced girl who comes to America as a political refugee. Mei-Li has flown from her country after witnessing a great deal of violence (including her father's death). Some artful choreography soon has Mei-Li on a ship bound for America, where she sings the show's anthem, "A Hundred Million Miracles." Upon arriving in San Francisco, Mei-Li immediately loses her heart to the son of her father's best friend. Then she is crushed to learn he has eyes for another woman. Mei-Li is torn between love for this man and for her country. She is nearly convinced to return to Hong Kong when her love reappears. Other worthwhile performances: Randall Duk Kim as the elderly Wang; his conniving business partner, Madame Liang, played by the wonderful Jodi Long, and especially Sandra Allen as the show's "hottie," Linda Lowe.
The show is punctuated by some great Rodgers and Hammerstein tunes, including "I Enjoy Being a Girl" and "You Are Beautiful." Unfortunately, there aren't enough great songs to lift this show into the 21st Century. It is amazing to note that this politically correct version of the original 1950s musical resorts to the completely tasteless "Chop Suey." In this number, showgirls are seen strutting around in translucent Chinese take-out boxes. They woodenly move their arms and legs like puppets. A moment later, their illuminated breasts and naked bodies can be seen inside the take-out boxes. It's amazing to think such a number would be appropriate in an otherwise family-friendly show (okay, the strippers aren't exactly family friendly, but they don't bare all, either). There's also a stereotypically gay character inserted for God-knows-what reason. The choreography, too, is hit or miss.
Flower Drum Song wowed audiences 40 years ago; unfortunately, it can't do the same today.
