International relations are the topic du jour when Soft Power takes the stage at the Ahmanson Theatre. The world premiere is a collaboration between Tony Award winners David Henry Hwang (best known for M. Butterfly and Flower Drum Song) and Jeanine Tesori (of Fun Home fame), and concerns a budding romance between a Chinese business executive, played by Conrad Ricamora (shown here), and a U.S. leader named Hillary Clinton (don’t tell Bill… or Donald).
It all takes place in the wake of the 2016 presidential election. Prepare for a steady dose of laughter with a dash of cultural complexity in this theater/musical hybrid. Opening day is May 16 and preview performances this week are Tuesday-Saturday, May 8-12, at 8 p.m., with additional shows Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. At 135 N. Grand Ave. or centertheatregroup.org.