Review by Louisa Polson
Golden Blood is a brilliant 90 minute duologue, written by actor and writer Merlynn Tong. This play explores the journey of two siblings, Girl, 14 and Boy, 21, (played by Merlynn Tong and Charles Wu) brought back together following the unfortunate death of their Mother. Separated by age, location and circumstance of their upbringing, the audience is privy to the rise of this new found sibling bond. As Boy encourages Girl to allow him to be her guardian, despite his unconventional means of employment within the industry of organized crime. With almost no other option, Girl concedes, and together we see the journey of this unorthodox family try to navigate coming of age and learning the true value of blood and family.
Golden Blood is a young and fresh contemporary story making waves within the Australian theatre scene on its second Sydney run two years on from its debut in 2022. It is refreshing to see new contemporary stories written from the perspective of young theatre makers. Having unique stories such as Golden Blood take the stage, is a win for the local scene, demonstratong the creative talent swirling in the city.
While many will not be able to see the story of Golden Blood and relate to the plot of two orphaned adolescent youths making their way up in the Singaporean gang scene. It is the incredible character work between Charles Wu and Merlynn Tong that makes Golden Blood such an easy and entertaining watch. It is the dialogue that leads this piece of theatre. Both Tong and Wu never drop pace, retaining a youthful high energy and lightness to their words, making the interactions seem so naturally non-chalant. Weaving in playful jabs and quick wit in conversation, in a style of interaction that is often only seen in sibling dynamics. While there are only ever two characters present on stage, Girl and Boy, their collective role as siblings is arguably a third character. As their growth as a unit has an overall character arc, where both siblings strive to maintain and strengthen their “legacy” and family unit.
The set design is minimal, opting only to have the bare minimum to create an aura of their world, as opposed to a complete replica of an apartment and its trimmings. However, where pieces of spectacle are employed, they are done so in an eye-catching fashion. Firstly the stage is set with minimal furniture, but the floor of the stage is glazed with a shiny golden covering, alluding to themes of the play. Secondly, lighting is used very specifically, and equally excitingly within the story to brighten up the space (obviously literally, but figuratively also). The three panels that line the backdrop are lit up in bright white, blue and red washes to create new places and feelings. The colourful washes are so bold and bright, perfectly fitting the environment of these two young siblings. Focusing only on a select few areas of design and executing them in a very intentional manner was a great win, as it allowed the story to shine through and not get lost in too many theatrical layers.
Golden Blood is a buzzing piece of theatre. Definitely not a show that will bring you down, but instead will boost your energy, making it the perfect show to see with friends, or even your siblings on a night out.
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