University of Southern California
Bovard Auditorium
Wednesday, February 19th, 2025
Tickets available soon – save the date!
Special Event: Cal Performances
at the University of California, Berkeley
Friday, April 4th, 2025
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Possible future cities may include Portland, Seattle, Salt Lake,
and New York!
About Defining Courage
Defining Courage is a journey into the legacy of the Nisei Soldier, Americans of Japanese ancestry who served in the segregated military units of the 100th IB, 442nd RCT, MIS, and 522nd FAB. Considered the greatest fighting units in American military history, most have never heard their extraordinary stories.
Narrated by ABC7-Los Angeles News Anchor and Filmmaker David Ono along with musicians and vocalists curated by Music Director Chris Wade, we immerse you into the tragic, yet uplifting world of these heroes who fought prejudice at home and the enemy abroad.
You’ll fly over World War II battlefields in Italy, France, Japan, and Germany, in an unforgettable live Docu-Theatre Experience that includes: Stunning Cinematography, Live Music & Choir, Historic Film and Eyewitness Interviews.
SEE, HEAR, and EXPERIENCE their incredible heroics through this piece of innovative storytelling. Far from a history lesson, it is a testament to inner strength, one that inspires us in our search for courage in today’s world.
The series Our America featured Defining Courage in episode 25 – watch below to experience see behind the scenes from our show at the magnificent Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
Gallery
Reviews
Knew very little of the story going in. Blew me away with the artistry, craft and storytelling. I was stunned by the live elements such as the vocalists and instrumentation, and how seamlessly it was integrated with the edited footage AND the soundbites of the documentary and narration. Much deserved standing ovation at the end…not a dry eye in sight. Thank you for creating and sharing this important work!
Chris L.
So grateful to have been able to see the show last night! I’m bummed it was just 1 night because I know so many that would’ve loved to see it! It was so incredibly well done and moving. The description didn’t do it justice at all because none of us realized what an amazing experience it would be! Thank you so much for creating it! Would love to share the experience with many relatives and friends!
Karen F.
The films, photos and stories blew me away and brought me to tears. David Ono’s personal dedication and passion were evident and made such an impact. Overall, it was fantastic and I thank you for putting it together and all that went into bringing it to Orange County. I learned so much and most of all, now have an incredibly deeper appreciation for the Nisei soldiers who fought and died for our country.
Susie D.
Thank you for creating and performing Defining Courage. It was magnificent in highlighting these significant stories in history. I was moved to tears…It exceeded expectations and was well worth the three hour drive to see it. I will remember it the rest of my life.
Lois Y.
The story witnessed in Defining Courage is one that sits forever in your soul.
Kim Godwin-President, ABC News
This was an impressive, impactful and untold narrative presented in such a creative way. The journalism and historical perspective was beyond expectation. We all enjoyed this show. A must see for all.
Sharon O.
The Team
David Ono
Host, Producer
David Ono is the co-anchor for ABC7 Eyewitness News at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Since joining ABC7 in 1996, David has witnessed history worldwide, covering Hurricane Katrina, Haiti’s earthquake and Japan’s tsunami. He traveled across Europe and Asia chronicling brave acts of the Nisei soldier from World War II. He has won 10 Edward R. Murrow awards and 26 Emmy Awards.
Since joining ABC7 in 1996, David has witnessed history worldwide, covering Hurricane Katrina, Haiti’s earthquake and Japan’s tsunami. He traveled across Europe and Asia chronicling brave acts of the Nisei soldier from World War II. He has won 10 Edward R. Murrow awards and 26 Emmy Awards.
Dylan Glockler
Director
Chris Wade
Music Director
Chris has been involved in the Entertainment, Music Industry and the Theatrical Production business since he was a young boy. From age 10-16, Chris sang with the All-American Boys Chorus in Southern California. Since, he’s created and composed music for numerous choirs of his own. He’s also been the Music Director of Hair and other large-scale musicals.
The Team
David Ono
Host, Producer
David Ono is the co-anchor for ABC7 Eyewitness News at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Since joining ABC7 in 1996, David has witnessed history worldwide, covering Hurricane Katrina, Haiti’s earthquake and Japan’s tsunami. He traveled across Europe and Asia chronicling brave acts of the Nisei soldier from World War II. He has won 10 Edward R. Murrow awards and 26 Emmy Awards.
Since joining ABC7 in 1996, David has witnessed history worldwide, covering Hurricane Katrina, Haiti’s earthquake and Japan’s tsunami. He traveled across Europe and Asia chronicling brave acts of the Nisei soldier from World War II. He has won 10 Edward R. Murrow awards and 26 Emmy Awards.
Chris Wade
Music Director
Chris has been involved in the Entertainment, Music Industry and the Theatrical Production business since he was a young boy. From age 10-16, Chris sang with the All-American Boys Chorus in Southern California. Since, he’s created and composed music for numerous choirs of his own. He’s also been the Music Director of Hair and other large-scale musicals.
Raise Choir
Live Choir
Partners
Contact Us
If you saw the show, please share your thoughts. We’d love to hear from you!
If you’re interested in bringing the show to a “theatre near you”, let’s talk.
Want us to let you know when the next show will be? Shoot us a message!
Contact Us
If you saw the show, please share your thoughts. We’d love to hear from you!
If you’re interested in bringing the show to a “theatre near you”, let’s talk.
Want us to let you know when the next show will be? Shoot us a message!
