ROSE VALLEY, PA — The Hedgerow Theatre Company will present the regional premiere of Endlings by acclaimed Korean-Canadian playwright Celine Song. Directed by Kalina Ko, the production runs from May 13 through June 1, showcasing the evocative tale of generational struggles, identity, and cultural heritage.
Set across two islands, Endlings tells the stories of three elderly haenyeos, or sea women, on Korea’s Man-Jae island who persevere in their fading tradition of deep-sea fishing. Meanwhile, in Manhattan, Korean-Canadian playwright Ha Young wrestles with the expectations placed on her work and the challenge of maintaining authenticity. The play examines how the stories we tell shape identity and cultural memory.
The cast includes award-winning stage actors Tuyết Thị Phạm as Go Min, Gray Choi as Sook Ja, and Shigeko Sara Suga as Han Sol. Philadelphia native Sarah Shin portrays Ha Young, alongside Scott Berkowitz, Ethan Goonewardene, Paul Harrold, John Harvey, and Kevin McCann in ensemble roles.
Director Kalina Ko brings her expertise from notable theater institutions, including Atlantic Theater Company and Clubbed Thumb. “I fell in love with Endlings the first time I read it,” Ko said. “Song’s play asks us to consider what might be gained when cultural worlds collide. It’s an honor to bring this underwater world to Hedgerow’s audiences.”
Hedgerow’s creative team features Scenic Designer Marie Laster, Lighting Designer Lily Fossner, Costume Designer Saawan Tiwari, and Sound Designer Caroline Eng. The production also incorporates puppetry by The Big Howl and movement coordination by Jungwoong Kim.
Performances take place at Hedgerow’s historic 100-seat theater in Media, housed within a 19th-century grist mill. The preview performance is scheduled for May 13 at 7:30 p.m., with the official opening night on May 14 featuring a postshow reception. Endlings is recommended for ages 15 and up, with an approximate runtime of 100 minutes without intermission. Single tickets are available for purchase online.
Hedgerow’s Endlings production is supported by honorary producers Ann Byun and Stephen Kanes, hospitality sponsor The Inn at Swarthmore, and other local and national organizations.
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