Ruthie Ann Miles is set to star as Eleanor Young in the eagerly anticipated workshop for the Crazy Rich Asians musical, recently held in New York City. This workshop was overseen by original film director Jon M. Chu, who is transitioning his work in film to the stage. The workshop, which took place from December 16 to 22, 2025, involved a 29-hour developmental reading and is a significant step toward an eventual Broadway debut.
The workshop featured a talented ensemble cast, including Helen J. Shen as Rachel Chu, Liam Oh as Nick Young, and Alyssa Joy Fox as Astrid Leong Teo. Other notable performers involved in this exciting project include Conrad Ricamora, Jasmine Forsberg, and Daniel K. Isaac. The team had the added privilege of insights from Kevin Kwan, the author of the original novel, who shared his enthusiastic experience on social media, highlighting the emotional depth of the readings.
The creative team behind the musical is equally impressive, with music crafted by Tony-nominated composer Helen Park, lyrics by Amanda Green and Tat Tong, and a book written by Leah Nanako Winkler. This creative collaboration brings together a wealth of Broadway experience and diverse artistic viewpoints, increasing the project’s prospects for success.
Jon M. Chu’s commitment to the musical is particularly noteworthy, as he balances directing responsibilities with promotion for his other project, the two-part adaptation of Wicked. His involvement signals a strong dedication to ensuring the stage adaptation lives up to its cinematic predecessor. The musical aims to resonate with audiences by capturing the original story’s essence, where Rachel Chu navigates the complexities of her boyfriend’s affluent family and the tension with his mother, Eleanor.
The adaptation is built on the remarkable legacy of the 2018 film, which was notable for featuring an all-Asian cast in a major Hollywood production for the first time in 25 years. With stars such as Constance Wu and Michelle Yeoh, the film achieved significant box office success and set high expectations for the musical.
As the workshop progresses, there’s a growing anticipation surrounding the musical’s future, including updates on official casting, opening dates, and venue assignments. Theatre insiders suggest that the rapid pace at which the project is developing signals substantial financial support and artistic enthusiasm. With Ruthie Ann Miles anchoring the ensemble and the remarkable talent assembled, the Crazy Rich Asians musical is poised to make a significant impact when it arrives on Broadway.