Australia: The Lucky Country. And through the eyes of a teenage, orphaned girl in Singapore, it represents her dream, her hope for a better life and an escape from the emotional shackles that the death of her mother has dealt her. Although inspired by the early years of its writer Merlynn Tong, Golden Blood is a fictional, semi-epic tale of urban survival by two siblings, known to us simply as Girl (Merlynn Tong) and Boy (Charles Wu).
We first see Girl aged 14, just after her mum’s funeral. Her brother Boy is 21 and vows to take care of her, as their father also passed away many years earlier. Boy is a Singaporean gang member, a big-noter and would-be gangster. He has seen his mothers’ Will and is able to take on a guardianship role in order to protect his sister’s substantial inheritance until she comes of age. His valued possession is the parang, a nasty-looking and intimidating machete, which he gleefully demonstrates with dexterity.
In contrast, Girl clings onto her cuddly toy koala. Like a security blanket, she hopes to one day become a vet in Australia and “look after all the marsupials”. The siblings could not be more different. Raised in a family that glorifies the accumulation of material goods, their views on life and the pursuit of happiness are worlds apart. Their Chinese heritage has also instilled deep views on the afterlife. Offerings to the spirits can include burning money in the hope of better fortunes here on Earth.
Over the course of the next seven years, Girl and Boy’s lives descend into some dark areas. All the “abuses” – alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling and financial – turn up to test their strength. As they mature, the answers to their problems become evident, but that is not before they learn the meaning of traditional values. They need to wise up quickly, because there is one big secret about to blow their relationship as brother and sister.
Merlynn Tong is a great storyteller. Golden Blood has the drama, intrigue and emotional pull to maintain audience interest for the full 90 minutes. There is always a new angle or sub-plot that emerges and provides twists where we were not expecting any. And empathy is created by the carefully placed moments of humour. Merlynn is also a wonderful actor in her role as Girl. She is just as convincing as a frightened and lost 14-year-old as she is as the mature and worldly 35-year-old.
Charles Wu has full command of his part from start to finish and struts about the stage with confidence and vigour. As his character is convinced that love comes from status, money and power, Charles combines voice, body language and gestures to demonstrate his internal struggle.
The theatrics of the play are well-handled by director Tessa Leong. With a small stage area, her creative crew do wonders with lighting, sound, costumes, props and … sulphur.
Golden Blood is on at the SBW Stables Theatre until 30th July 2022. It is an exciting, fast-paced play, with never a dull moment.
Paul Keily
More from Paul Keily can be found at www.absolutetheatre.com.au
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- Golden Blood (Arts Centre Melbourne) – theatre review
- Prima Facie (Griffin) – theatre review
- The Ham Funeral (Griffin) – theatre review
Paul Kiely reviews shows in Sydney for www.absolutetheatre.com.au. He joined the team in 2018.