Home isn’t always where the heart is
Internationally acclaimed photographer and storyteller William Yang returns to the motherland he never knew for his latest theatre production, China.
Yang explores the story of an Australian-born Chinese who feels foreign in his homeland. As he draws on personal experiences, culture, heritage and belonging become the focus of the piece.
Reconnecting with his cultural heritage, Yang portrays the complex social layering of Beijing – from the electronic superstores that jostle with echoes of Cultural Revolution to the sacred mountain Huang Shan that is the focus of every pilgrim-tourist.
“I have gotten caught up in Asian Pride, but I actually feel that I have done gay as a subject and I have moved on from it,” Yang said.
“As an artist you concentrate on a certain theme and once you fully explore it in your work it is very hard to continue it.”
The intimate nature of Yang’s piece, his eye for detail and arresting photographs are complemented by Nicholas Ng’s live score for an engaging and uplifting performance.
China, by William Yang, will play at the SBW Stables Theatre, 10 Nimrod St, Kings Cross. Previews will be held 15 and 16 January, with the show playing from 19 January to 9 February. Tickets: 1300 306 776.
