Join us for the premiere screening of a new documentary film exploring the struggles and obsessions of Shin Miyata, a Tokyo–based record label owner, music promoter, and cultural ambassador who has been distributing Chicano music and bringing East Los Angeles bands to Japan for nearly 20 years.

The film explores Miyata’s personal connection to East LA, the joys and difficulties of introducing authentic and diverse representations of Chicano culture to Japan, and the conscious efforts Miyata has made to break stereotypes on both sides of the Pacific.

Directed by Akira Boch, Our Man in Tokyo is a production of JANM’s Frank H. Watase Media Arts Center. Screening will be followed by a panel discussion with Miyata, who is flying in from Tokyo for this event, Boch, and the members of El Haru Kuroi, an East LA trio whose unique compositions draw from their upbringing in the city as well as elements of Mexican, South American, African, and American jazz music. El Haru Kuroi will also perform.

This program is free for Museum members and included with general admission for non-members. Please purchase admission at the front desk prior to the event. RSVPs are strongly encouraged using this online form.