I just returned from New York after a brief, five day getaway. While there, I had the opportunity to see the new Broadway production, Chinglish. For anyone planning a trip to New York any time soon, this play is definitely worth checking out. In short, the story (ostensibly) revolves an American businessman trying to close a deal in China and the obstacles (both personal and professional) he and his Chinese counterparts face during the process. Though the play revolves around the pains of communicating/translating, a closer look reveals (quite humorously) the differences that exist between the cultures (Western and Chinese). The story deals with cronyism, corruption, love, cultural cues and customs, and the future of China as world leader all through the eyes of the two main protagonists (the American businessman and the Chinese politician). I am not sure if this will be a touring production (given the play's relatively small size, I doubt it will), but if it ever lands out West, it's a smart and witty play that should not be missed.
http://chinglishbroadway.com/
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