Parental expectations. Conformity. Culture. Truth. Simplicity. These are some of the topics presented throughout the world premiere of Vanessa Bates’ The One, now showing at the Ensemble Theatre. Set in Jim’s Oriental Restaurant and Milk Bar, The One, offers more than a few glimpses into the pressures and in-your-face racism thrust upon Eurasians growing up in Australia’s suburban jungle in the mid-1990s and beyond.
How long can adults hide their authentic selves from their family? – that is what brother and sister Eric (Shan-Ree Tan) and Mel (Angie Diaz)face and debate. Mel’s got a lot on her plate. Between the anxiety inducing return of her mother from their old home in Malaysia, her brother Eric’s mysterious double life and the pressure of caring for her mother’s prized poodle, Mel is hungry for more simplicity. In the world premiere of this new and eccentric family comedy, award winning playwright Vanessa Bates colourfully unravels the complexities of what it means to be Eurasian in contemporary Australia.
Throughout this humorous yet at times serious play the audience is given opportunities to laugh, to cry, but most importantly – to learn.
CAST
Helen – Gabrielle Chan
Mel – Angie Diaz
Jess – Aileen Huynh
Cal – Damien Strouthos
Eric – Shan-Ree Tan
CREATIVES
Playwright Vanessa Bates
Director Darren Yap
Assistant Director Sophie Kelly
Dramaturg Sarah Odillo Maher
Set & Costume Designer Nick Fry
Lighting Designer Verity Hampson
Composer & Sound Designer Michael Tan
Choreographer Angie Diaz
Stage Manager Lauren Tulloh
Costume Supervisor Renata Beslik
Top photo: Angie Diaz + Shan-Ree Tan ©Prudence Upton
Venue: ENSEMBLE THEATRE, 78 McDougall St Kirribilli NSW
Playing now till 27 August 2022, don’t miss this new comedy unravelling what it means to be Eurasian in contemporary Australia. To book visit: www.ensemble.com.au
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