Off-Broadway's Ma-Yi Theater Ensemble will examine the plight of Filipino migrant workers on the West Coast in the '30s in peregriNasyon, which began performances Aug. 8 at Theatre Row Theatre (424 W. 42nd St.). The play officially opens Aug. 16 for a run through Aug. 30.

The play is based on Carlos Bulasan's book America Is in the Heart. The story concerns workers in the shipyards of Seattle, the canneries of Alaska and the fields of central California, and their continuing connections with their families in the Philippines.

The play is adapted and directed by Chris B. Millado. Peter Cabuay, who designed the set for David Henry Hwang's Golden Child, is scenic designer. The title refers to the Filipino word for wandering; the capitalized "N" is meant to evoke wandering nations.

Ma-Yi was founded in 1989 to develop, produce and present works exploring the Filipino and Filipino-American experience. For information: (212) 581-8896.

-- By Robert Simonson