“Play It Like It’s ‘54” Exclusive Reveal Party

This exclusive event catered towards the cast, crew, and donors of the short film “Play It Like It’s ‘54” will allow for the Bay Area community to watch the film alongside the folks who made it a reality. From script to screen, “Play It Like It’s ‘54” is a feat for Brazilian-American, lesbian writer and director Nova Duartez Martinez. This event will have musical performances along with the presentation of an animated short. Following the reveal of “Play It Like It’s ‘54” is a Q&A with its cast & crew.  

Light refreshments will be provided for all attendees. 

This event is also an opportunity for IndieGoGo donors to claim their perks which may include a personal letter from the director, autographed photo cards of the cast, and exclusive merchandise. 

In 1950s San Francisco, a young Chinese-American steps into Mona’s 440, the city’s first lesbian bar, determined to explore her complex identities amidst a society that forces queer love into the shadows.  

Written, Directed, and Produced by Nova Duarte Martinez, this is her third film, but biggest production to date. Fiona Huynh produced the film, greatly influencing the selection of the Chinatown shooting locations. Assistant Director Yoko April Tamada produced the film with a keen eye towards collaboration with local businesses. 

Chloe Wong starred as JEAN, with Niku Radan as VIVIAN. Terrance Zheng played TOM, Barbara Diel Schubert played THE BARTENDER, Aubrey Milowski played BARBARA, and Claire Blomme played THE IMPERSONATOR. Sole extras include Paige Mojica, Tonantzin BLANK, and Angelica Tamada. Crew who also acted as extras include Yoko April Tamada, Sophie Schultz, Luna Bautista, Stephanie Houston Jeanette Paak, Vanessa Camacho, and Yaneli Zenteno. 

Cinematographer Hannah Burhorn led the camera department that included Jovann Guevara (1st AC), Jennifer Quiroz (1st AC), and Gabby Yabut (2nd AC/DIT). Gaffer Leslie Alarcon led the lighting department that included Thea Krusinski (Key Grip), Samson Lothschutz (Key Grip), Nicole Won (Grip), Luna Bautista (Grip/Swing), Javier Omar Gutierrez (Grip), and Emilio Valencia (Grip). Production Designer Kristian Crowther led the art department that included Jeanette Paak (Graphic Designer/Set Dresser), and Vanessa Camacho (Assistant Set Dresser). As well as additional Graphic Design by Chloe Wong and Kippy Chan. Wardrobe Supervisor Stephanie Houston and Hair/Make Up Artist Yaneli Zenteno worked closely with the art department. Sound Mixer Ninny Xiong led the sound department that included Denisse Lopez (Boom Op), Asia Griem (Boom Op), and Janelle Frazier (Boom Op). Dylan Diep was Script Supervisor, and Cameron Haruta was Intimacy Coordinator. The BTS team includes Emilio Valencia, Miles Moreira, and Milan Perry. Production Assistants include Terrance Zheng, Sophie Schultz, Emilio Valencia, Miles Moreira, Jacky Chiu, Brian Yan, “Elliot” Mabel Sum, and Oni Akananim. Cantonese Translators on and off set include Fiona Huynh, Chloe Wong, Terrance Zheng, Kippy Chan, Jacky Chiu, Brian Yan, and “Elliot” Mable Sum. The Post-Production team includes Gabby Yabut (Main Editor), Emilio Valencia (Assistant Editor), Kelly Duo (Sound Designer/Post-Prod. Sound Mixer), Ru Jingru Wang (Scorist), and Samson Lothschutz (Colorist).  

Filming took place at Stookey’s Blue Room in San Francisco’s Nob Hill neighborhood on Day 1. Day 2 it took place at Ross Alley, Spofford Alley, and an SRO in San Francisco’s Chinatown. Day 3 it took place at Jasper Place, and Peter Macchiarini Steps in San Francisco’s North Beach. 

The local businesses that provided support to the production of “Play It Like It’s ‘54” include Raja Chai, Amsterdam Hostel, The State Garage, and Chinatown Parking Garage. 

Host or Publisher Yoko April Tamada