By: Daniel Finch
In the vibrant tapestry of American culture, each thread represents a unique story, a distinct heritage contributing to the nation’s rich mosaic. Among these, the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community holds a profound significance, weaving tales of resilience, creativity, and influence. Every May, the United States celebrates AAPI Heritage Month, recognizing the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the nation. This commemoration not only honors past contributions but also highlights contemporary figures shaping the future. One such luminary is Olivia Desiree.
Born in Indonesia and now based in New York City, Olivia Desiree is a dynamic force in the performing arts scene. As an actor, dancer, and singer, she has captivated audiences with her performances in various productions. However, it was her role in the off-Broadway show “2 Constellations of Everything Before Us,” focused on AAPI themes that marked a pivotal moment in her career.
With AAPI month on the horizon, Olivia shared her thoughts on what this observance means to her personally and professionally. “It would be a space that I would like to get into,” she remarked during an interview. The month of May is not just a period for celebration; for artists like Olivia Desiree, it represents an opportunity to engage more deeply with their heritage and bring those narratives to broader audiences.
Despite significant progress over recent years—underscored by Hollywood breakthroughs from stars like Awkwafina and Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh—the theater stage remains an area where AAPI representation lags behind. Olivia Desiree believes there is much work to be done to ensure that Asian actors are given equal opportunities on Broadway stages.
“It’s about time we see more diversity in theater,” Olivia stated emphatically. “The stories we tell on stage should reflect the world we live in today.” Her passion for greater representation stems from both personal experience and a broader commitment to social equity within the performing arts community.
Her website showcases not only her portfolio but also serves as a platform for advocacy on this issue—encouraging dialogue among industry stakeholders about inclusivity and representation.
Olivia’s journey mirrors that of many AAPI artists striving for recognition within an industry often slow to change. Yet their persistence pays off gradually as each success story paves the way for others. Shows like “2 Constellations of Everything Before Us” offer critical visibility for AAPI narratives while challenging audiences to reconsider their perspectives on identity and belonging.
This year’s AAPI Heritage Month comes at a crucial time when conversations around race and representation have taken center stage across all sectors of society—including theater. For Olivia Desiree and countless other AAPI artists, it is not just about securing roles; it’s about reshaping how Asian American stories are told and received by mainstream culture.
Delving into another celebration of AAPI Heritage Month this May, remember that beyond commemorating historical milestones—the immigration of Japanese individuals in 1843 or the completion of the transcontinental railroad by Chinese laborers in 1869—it’s also about honoring living legacies like Olivia Desiree, who continue to break barriers today.
Through her artistry and activism, Olivia underscores a powerful message: representation matters—not only during AAPI Heritage Month but throughout every month of the year. It is through amplifying voices like hers that people can envision a theater landscape as diverse as America itself—a stage where every story finds its spotlight.
Published By: Aize Perez
