Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts

The stage is set for a unique theatrical experience in Saint Paul, where a troupe of Southeast Asian Girl Scouts are battling hordes of zombies—and facing threats far more complex than the undead. St. Catherine University’s Frey Theater will host “Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts,” a new play premiering October 31, 2026, offering a blend of action, humor, and social commentary. This thrilling production, set during a zombie apocalypse, sees the Girl Scouts of Troop #54129 stepping up to protect their community. The show runs from October 31 to November 15, 2026, presenting a compelling narrative that intertwines the resilience of the Girl Scouts with the challenges of survival.

What Happened

The play centers on Thin Mint, Samoa, and Do-Si-Do, members of a Southeast Asian Girl Scout troop who find themselves protecting their community after local authorities abandon it during a zombie outbreak. The story is a testament to the bravery and resourcefulness of these young women, who find themselves in a situation where traditional roles are turned upside down. According to playwright Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay, the Girl Scouts are creating a sanctuary for their community, protecting not only resources like food and medicine, but also their way of life. “I imagine these Girl Scouts in my play creating this sanctuary for their community, and how they're protecting more than … resources like food and medicine and stuff, but they're also protecting their way of life and their way of like rebuilding a world or community,” Vongsay said. The production promises a blend of genres, including sci-fi, kung fu, hip-hop, and Southeast Asian culture—a deliberate effort to reflect the diversity of Asian American experiences.

Tickets are available on a “Pay As You Are” basis, allowing audiences to choose a price point that aligns with their financial means. The initiative aims to make the performance accessible to a wider range of community members, with ticket prices starting as low as $15. Large-print playbills, accessible seating, and sensory kits will be available at every performance, along with open captions on November 7 and 14, audio description on November 8, and ASL interpretation on November 15. The play is recommended for ages 12+, due to depictions of blood, violence, gore, zombies, adult language, atmospheric haze, and flashing lights.

The Frey Theater is located on the St. Catherine University campus at 2004 Randolph Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55105. Due to the age of the building, restrooms are not wheelchair accessible; ushers will direct attendees to accessible restrooms in an adjacent building. For accessibility questions or concerns, contact the Frey Theater ticket office at 651-690-6700 or [email protected].

Community Reaction

The play has already generated considerable buzz within the community, with local publications praising its innovative approach and empowering message. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine highlighted the play’s focus on preserving cultural identity in the face of adversity. MyVillager emphasized the show’s celebration of Asian American strength and community, noting, “I really like how it embraces girl power and how Asian Americans can do a lot of things. I think people should want to see our play because it shows how a lot of things can be very scary but very exciting when a community comes together.” Art Hounds underscored the need for diverse voices in Asian American theater, stating that the play’s blend of genres reflects the complexity of lived experiences.

Playwright's Vision

Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay, who is also a Lao American poet and essayist, talks about her inspiration for the play. She describes the Girl Scouts as creating a sanctuary for their community, protecting more than just resources like food and medicine; they are also safeguarding their way of life and rebuilding a world or community. Vongsay has received numerous fellowships and grants in recognition of her contributions to the arts, including from the Bush Foundation, McKnight Foundation, Center for Cultural Power, Jerome Foundation, Playwrights' Center, and others.

Meet the Creative Team

“Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts” is the brainchild of playwright Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay. The play is directed by Fran De Leon, who recently joined Theater Mu as artistic director and brings a wealth of experience in producing and directing theater. De Leon previously served as co-artistic director of Will & Company and director of new talent for Playfair. The creative team also includes Mason Tyer (violence director), Jessica Goldade Swanson (production manager), Miranda Shunkwiler (stage manager), and a host of fellows and technical staff contributing their expertise to the production. Theater Mu has a long history of supporting Asian American artists and stories.

Marcus's Take

This production offers a compelling reflection of the enduring values that sustain strong communities. The image of young women, embodying the principles of the Girl Scout movement—service, courage, and integrity—facing a zombie apocalypse is powerful. It speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of passing on those values to future generations. While the premise is fantastical, the underlying themes of community, faith, and perseverance are deeply rooted in the American experience. The “Pay As You Are” ticketing model is a commendable effort to ensure that these vital stories reach a broad audience, especially those who might otherwise be excluded. It’s a reminder that access to the arts is a public good, and that supporting local theater strengthens the social fabric of our community.

What's Next

“Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts” runs from October 31 to November 15, 2026, with preview performances on October 29 and 30. A Halloween costume contest will be held on October 31, and a post-show talkback with the playwright and director is scheduled for November 1. A pre-show Trivia Mafia and a talkback featuring Kao Kalia Yang, Montha Chum, and Rep. Liz Lee will take place on November 4. Southeast Asian Girl Scout Troop #54129 will participate in a post-show salon on November 8. A designer/director fellowship showcase is planned for November 12, and a matinee performance featuring James Ruth in the role of Gary will be held on November 14. The production promises to be a memorable experience for audiences of all ages, celebrating the power of community and the importance of preserving cultural heritage amidst challenging circumstances.

Resources

For more information about “Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts,” including ticket availability and accessibility details, visit the Theater Mu website. To learn more about the Girl Scout movement and its impact on young women, visit the Girl Scouts of America website. Information about St. Catherine University and the Frey Theater can be found on the university’s website.

The performance of “Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts” serves as a reminder of the enduring power of community and the importance of preserving cultural traditions, especially in times of uncertainty. It is an opportunity for families to gather, be entertained, and reflect on the values that bind us together.