'Kim's Convenience' sets London cast

Ins Choi, who wrote the play in 2011, now leads the cast of the U.K. premiere of the show, which begins performances at the Park Theatre on 8 January.

The U.K.-premiere production of Kim's Convenience has set its full cast. The Park Theatre hosts the show from 8 January to 10 February only.

Playwright Ins Choi stars in Kim's Convenience as Mr Kim, also known as Appa. Besides writing the show, he also starred as Mr Kim's son in the 2011 Toronto world premiere.

"I’m very much looking forward to returning to where it all began 12 years ago," Choi said in a statement. "It’s a wonderful journey and it feels great to have finally grown into this role. This play launched my career and continues to provide a great vehicle for Asian actors and shines an important light on representation."

The Kim's Convenience London cast also includes Namju Go as Umma, Jennifer Kim as Janet, Brian Law as Jung, and Miles Mitchell as Rich/Mr Lee/Mike/Alex.

Kim's Convenience is set at the Korean family-owned store of the title, whose owner must contend with a changing neighborhood and the difference between the difference between his first-generation immigrant experience and that of his second-generation kids. This production is directed by Esther Jun, who also performed in the original production.

"I have been involved with Kim’s Convenience in some shape or form for nearly 20 years and to finally bring it to London, where I learned my craft as a director, is extra meaningful," Jun said in a statement. "The simple genius of this play is how it continues to resonate for different cultures and ages at different times in people's lives."

The creative team also includes set and costume designer Mona Camille, lighting designer Jonathan Chan, and sound designer and composer Holly Khan.

Book Kim's Convenience tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: Ins Choi, Najmu Go, Miles Mitchell, Jennifer Kim, and Brian Law. (Photos courtesy of production)