Crazy Rich Asians Musical Workshop: Ruthie Ann Miles Joins Star-Studded Cast

CRAZY RICH ASIANS Musical Workshop Reveals Star-Studded Cast for Broadway Adaptation

In a major development for theater fans, the highly anticipated musical adaptation of Crazy Rich Asians held its first star-studded workshop in New York City. The 29-hour developmental reading brought together Broadway heavyweights like Tony winner Ruthie Ann Miles as Eleanor Young, alongside Helen J. Shen as Rachel Chu and Liam Oh as Nick Young. Original film director Jon M. Chu oversaw the creative process, marking a significant step toward the musical's Broadway debut.

Workshop Highlights: A Week of Creative Intensity

The intensive workshop took place at New 42 Studios from December 16-22, 2025, featuring a cast that read the entire musical over nearly 30 hours. Composer Helen Park (KPOP), lyricists Amanda Green (Hands On A Hardbody) and Tat Tong, and book writer Leah Nanako Winkler (Schmigadoon!) were all present to refine their vision. Kevin Kwan, author of the original novel, shared his emotional reaction on Instagram: "It was absolutely euphoric to hear these amazing actors bring the characters alive, there wasn't a dry eye in the room, and it was truly a dream come true."

Alongside Miles, the ensemble included Conrad Ricamora, Alyssa Joy Fox as Astrid Leong Teo, Daniel K. Isaac, and Kelvin Moon Loh. Chu, fresh off directing the two-part Wicked films, balanced his schedule to participate, emphasizing his commitment to the project.

Ruthie Ann Miles: Broadway Powerhouse Takes on Iconic Role

Tony winner Ruthie Ann Miles (known for The King and I and Carousel) anchors the production as Eleanor Young, the formidable matriarch. Her casting reflects the show's dedication to high-caliber talent capable of handling both comedic and dramatic moments. Miles recently originated the role of Sahra in McNeal on Broadway, further cementing her status as a leading theatrical presence. Her portrayal of the disapproving mother promises to bring fresh depth to the character.

Key Workshop Cast Members

• Ruthie Ann Miles as Eleanor Young
• Helen J. Shen as Rachel Chu (Maybe Happy Ending)
• Liam Oh as Nick Young (Netflix's Boots)
• Alyssa Joy Fox as Astrid Leong Teo
• Conrad Ricamora as...

Creative Team: Broadway Heavyweights Lead the Charge

The musical boasts a dream team of Broadway veterans:

• Music: Tony-nominated Helen Park (KPOP)
• Book: Leah Nanako Winkler (Schmigadoon!)
• Lyrics: Amanda Green (Hands On A Hardbody) and Singaporean songwriter Tat Tong
• Director: Jon M. Chu (original Crazy Rich Asians film)
• Producer: Mark Kaufman (Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures; Beetlejuice, The Notebook)

From Film to Stage: Preserving the Original's Legacy

The 2018 film broke barriers as the first major Hollywood studio feature with an all-Asian cast in 25 years, becoming the most successful studio rom-com in nearly a decade. Michelle Yeoh and Constance Wu starred in the box-office hit that showcased Asian-led stories' commercial viability. The musical aims to capture this cultural milestone while translating its lavish Singapore setting and family-drama dynamics for the stage.

"This isn't just an adaptation—it's a celebration of Asian representation on Broadway," said lyricist Tat Tong. "We're honoring the film's impact while creating something entirely new for theater audiences."

What's Next for the Musical?

The workshop's success accelerates the timeline for this Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures production. With only nine months passing since the project's announcement, insiders expect formal Broadway announcements—including theater assignment, opening date, and casting details—in early 2026. Given the high-profile creative team and star power, producers are eyeing a major Broadway venue.

As Kelvin Moon Loh noted on social media, "Grateful doesn't begin to cut it" for the transformative workshop experience. With Ruthie Ann Miles leading the charge and Jon M. Chu at the helm, Crazy Rich Asians is poised to make history once again—this time on the Great White Way.