Illegal: A New Musical

Responding to recent anti-Asian racism and violent incidents, particularly against Asian women, Illegal is a historical fiction rap-rock musical that tells the stories of Asian Americans, immigrants, and women of color especially.

Created in 2019 by Skyler Chin, and co-composed by Sita Sunil, Illegal: A New Musical pays respect to the challenges immigrant families face today and gives voice to some of America’s first “illegal” immigrants. Inspired by the 1923 detainment and interrogation of Skyler’s grandfather on Angel Island en route to Manhattan Chinatown, Illegal confronts the history of anti-Asian prejudice that Skyler’s ancestors experienced during the Chinese Exclusion era and that many still face a century later. The show's bold, irreverent characters and upbeat, comedic moments honor the fighting spirit of those who persevered and allowed future Americans to proudly tell their stories.

A Semi-Finalist for the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center’s 2022 National Music Theater Conference, Illegal is the proud love child of Hamilton and Bruce Lee, with fast-talking clever wordplay, an innovative blend of rap, rock, and historical references, and colorful characters ready to take on the world—with kung fu, if need be. Illegal brings to center stage people largely left out of American history textbooks and mostly unseen on American stages. Help us change that!

ILLEGAL - PROJECT GOALS

1. Respond to pandemic-era anti-Asian racism—which has particularly affected New York’s AAPI communities—with positive narratives by and about AAPI individuals, emphasizing perseverance, solidarity, and hope.

2. Introduce Illegal to new communities, especially communities with thriving Asian American populations, and establish strong bases there—with the help of our local Community Partners.

3. Educate people, especially young people, about Asian American history by providing context on Chinese Exclusion, Angel Island, and other exclusionary practices that aren’t often taught in schools.

4. Inspire young Asian Americans to pursue the arts (particularly theater) and encourage them to tell their stories. 

5. Entertain audiences with larger-than-life characters and upbeat music that draws on both contemporary and traditional influences to bring them joy during a trying time.

6. Show people the richness of their history and culture and inspire them to create meaningful positive change in their communities and in the world.