ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — American Stage Theatre opened their 2019-2020 season this week celebrating the "American Dream" with their season theme, "American Dreamscape," and the first production of the season, "Vietgone."

"Vietgone" explores what it means to be new Americans.

In fact, the story of immigration in the play, set in 1975 post-Vietnam War America, is one that has played out millions of times in our country throughout its history. Immigration was, is, and continues to be part of the American Experience.

It's a reflection of who we are.

"It's a really powerful story about refugees and immigrants and the bravery it takes to start over again," said Director Brian Balcom.

The play’s author, Qui Nguyen, is the child of Vietnamese refugees. His work is part comedy, part love story, and part epic triumph over the suffering of war.

Bacolm says the play offers a chance to move beyond many one-dimensional stereotypes of fellow Asians and Asian Americans. 

"It really exciting to see this new generation of storytelling where we are seen as heroes and lovers, with really complex journeys and faults and successes and joys," he explained. 

The play is performed and directed by a mostly Asian cast and crew — people who understand this immigrant story in a special way.

"I'm actually first-generation Chinese American," said lead actor Sami Ma. "My parents are some of the strongest people I've ever met."

"I was adopted at nine months old from Korea,” said Balcom. "I was given opportunities in this country with my adopted family that I never would have had if I would have been home in an orphanage."

“With it’s fresh and very unique style and voice and its story of two very new Americans experiencing the wonder of our nation for the first time, Vietgone seemed the ideal opening production for our American Dreamscape season,” said Stephanie Gularte the CEO and Producing Artistic Director of American Stage.

The play runs through Nov. 3. For a behind-the-scenes preview of the show, watch the video above.