News Summary
A new research project, ‘Hiding in Plain Sight,’ led by UNLV faculty, aims to shed light on the historical contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander performers in Las Vegas. The initiative highlights artists like Gia Mo, the Reycard Duet, and productions such as ‘Flower Drum Song’. A public event will present their findings, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging AAPI narratives in the arts and fostering a deeper appreciation for their rich cultural contributions.
Las Vegas – A groundbreaking research project titled “Hiding in Plain Sight” aims to uncover and highlight the often-overlooked contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) performers in the history of Las Vegas entertainment. Led by UNLV faculty members Su Kim Chung and Tammi Kim, the project investigates the artistic legacies of AAPI artists who have significantly shaped the entertainment landscape in the city.
The initiative was sparked by Chung’s discovery of archival material concerning Gia Mo, a dancer who performed in the iconic Magic Carpet Revue at the Dunes Hotel. Recognizing the need for representation in historical narratives, Chung is committed to revealing the rich histories of performers including the Reycard Duet, the Kim Sisters, and the Sunspots, as well as notable productions like “China Doll Revue,” “Flower Drum Song,” “Holiday in Japan,” and “Geisha Rella.”
The Reycard Duet, a comedic singing duo composed of Rey Ramirez and his partner, was particularly influential in Las Vegas from the 1960s until the late 1990s. The duet’s legacy is still cherished by many, including Ramirez’s daughters Rachelle Basso and Rhonda Okurowski, who express pride in their father’s impact. The Reycard Duet not only entertained local audiences but also opened for The Beatles during their performance in Manila, further solidifying their place in entertainment history.
As part of the project’s goals, Chung and Kim will present their findings during a free public event at the Gibson Library in Henderson on May 19 at 5:30 p.m. This presentation aims to raise awareness of the contributions made by AAPI performers and foster a deeper appreciation for their stories, which often remain hidden or forgotten.
The essence of the “Hiding in Plain Sight” project extends beyond mere recognition; it seeks to preserve the cultural identity of Las Vegas by ensuring that the narratives of AAPI entertainers are not lost to time. Chung has labeled this project as one of the most fulfilling experiences of her career as an archivist, reflecting the importance of acknowledging the diverse contributions to the arts.
Throughout their research, Chung and Kim have discovered a wealth of stories that highlight the significance of representation in media and entertainment. They emphasize that the absence of these narratives can perpetuate the invisibility of AAPI performers in historical accounts. By bringing these stories to light, the project fosters inclusivity and promotes a broader understanding of Las Vegas’s rich cultural tapestry.
The call for greater visibility of AAPI contributions in entertainment history resonates deeply with both the researchers and the community. As they investigate the lives of these performers, the hope is to inspire future generations of artists and entertainers by honoring the legacy of those who came before them.
In light of this research, community members are encouraged to engage with the findings of the project and to acknowledge the critical role that AAPI performers have played in shaping Las Vegas’s entertainment scene. The invitation to the presentation is not only a chance to learn about the past but also an opportunity to participate in an ongoing conversation about representation and appreciation in the arts.
As the “Hiding in Plain Sight” project unfolds, it further highlights the necessity of recognizing the multitude of voices that have contributed to the vibrant history of Las Vegas, ensuring these significant stories are remembered and celebrated by all. The initiative stands as a testament to the power of research in bringing about change and enhancing cultural understanding in the community.
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Additional Resources
- KTNV: Hidden in Plain Sight
- Wikipedia: Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage
- 963KKLZ: UNLV Research Reveals Asian American Performers
- Google Search: AAPI performers Las Vegas
- 8 News Now: Trump to Speak at Las Vegas AAPI Event
- Google Scholar: AAPI performers Las Vegas
- News 3 LV: Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Asian history
