Theater trip blends performance and food for a culturally fulfilling day

by Anna Derby

LW contributor

“Kim’s Convenience” is a popular play that explores themes of family and community while set in a family-run convenience store in Toronto. Attending it one Saturday in April at the Ahmanson Theater was a special experience—live performances often create a shared energy between the actors and audience that really bring the story to life. The story was meaningful for our family given our family’s immigrant experience.

The story, created by Ins Choi, whose father was a pastor and thought he was very funny with the audience at the church, captures many familiar moments—balancing cultures, family expectations, humor in everyday struggles, and the deep love that holds everything together. On stage, those emotions tend to feel even more immediate and personal.

It was a unique show that featured five people of color telling the story of a workingclass immigrant family, trying to make ends meet, trying to love each other without necessarily having the words to express it.

For our family of five, it was more than just a show—it sparked conversations, memories, even laughter about our own journey. Some moments hit close to home, while others simply reminded us how universal those experiences are.

To finish the outing, we chose Soban, a popular Korean restaurant in Los Angeles, which gained fame with the movie “Parasite” Academy Award recipients hanging out, plus “KPop Demon Hunters” actors and other famous Korean stars stopping by.

Soban is truly a gem if you’re looking for authentic, home-style Korean cooking. It’s especially known for dishes that feel like they came straight from a Korean family kitchen rather than a commercial restaurant.

What makes Soban stand out is its variety of banchan (side dishes)—they change often and are made with care, reflecting traditional flavors. Many people say the banchan alone is worth the visit. Some highlights you might want to try include Gan Jang gejang (soy-marinated raw crab)—a specialty and favorite for those who enjoy bold, traditional flavors; Godeungeo gui (grilled mackerel)—simple but deeply satisfying; Bossam (boiled pork wraps); and Kimchi jjigae— comforting and rich, especially if you want something warm and hearty.

To top it off, the owner of the Soban shared stories of her restaurant and served a special fermented fruit alcohol to make us feel like very special guests.

What a day to remember.

Anna Derby (r) with daughter Jane