Theatre Review
Yellow Earth Theatre
Running the Silk Road
by Paul Sirett Barbican Pit 28 June, 2008
A review by Alan Taylor for EXTRA! EXTRA!
Yellow Earth Theatre are a theatre company dedicated to raising the profile of British East Asian actors. Set up in 1995, their latest venture Running the Silk Road tells of four friends who decide to carry an alternative Olympic torch across the ‘Silk Road’- an old trading route between East and West. Running to promote awareness of global warming and the floods in China, the journey isn’t easy and is plagued with visions of an ancient east, brought to us in the form of Beijing Opera. Although starting with a shaky premise (“Shall we all abandon our lives and go travelling for a year to promote awareness of global warming?” “Yeah, sure… Just let me check my mum hasn’t made my tea and I’ll be on my way”), the instant humour and likeability of all the characters entrench you far enough not to notice. Though it sounds overtly political, the issues are dealt with in a very human and subtle way, and doesn’t patronise or romanticise the East, but recognises the impact of Western war and funding. Also, very cleverly, they point out the flaws in China’s government; the exploitation in Africa and occupation of Tibet makes light of the Communist regime. Some really beautiful moments in the Beijing Opera scenes, bringing to life the beauty of Mandarin Chinese. The poetic writing by Paul Sirett sets this off, and the very stylised dancing of Shen Feng as Lei Shen, the thunder god, is amazing. The acrobatics were fairly understated but fantastic feats. These ‘mythical breaks’ in the play also give a strong Brechtian vibe, emphasising the deep cultural values from which China’s Communist regime gave birth to. Making some poignant points, the opera has subtle contemporary references. This particular quote is when the goddess of rebirth talking about the land of China: Nu Ch’ou shi shi: Six suns, whirlwinds swirl A tip of the hat to the constant threat of nuclear war and the effects of climate change without making it obvious, overstated or laboured. In fact, it makes it seem relevant yet lyrical. Obviously a great synthesis of thought between director David Tse Ka-Shing and writer Paul Sirett, this play could have easily strayed into dodgy territory, but steers a clear course through its beauty and simplicity. Using exactly the right elements of traditional and contemporary (especially the strong drums and Oriental sound composed by Suki Mok, combining modern Chinese music with Beijing Opera), the visuals are beautiful and the story is poignant. A great introduction to the extremely stylised Beijing Opera, mixed with a modern and relevant story, this is a play that every serious theatre lover should see. The delicacy is powerful, and the fragility makes it strong. You will leave the theatre inspired rather than placated.
Running the Silk Road is playing until the 28th June
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