Yong’s golden story on stage

THE premiere of Monkey Baa Theatre Company’s new original Australian play will be staged at Civic Hall this weekend.

Yong is a one-hour performance which presents life on the goldfields through the eyes of a Chinese teenager, based on the novel Yong: The Journey of an Unworthy Son by Janeen Brian.

Playwright Jenevieve Chang has adapted the book for audiences aged 10 to 13 and their families, with the show starring solo actor Wern Mak.

“Yong is a universally resonant story about a young boy who must learn to step out of the shadow of other people’s expectations in order to find himself,” she said.

“It’s about what it means to be a son, what it takes to be a parent, and the push and pull of community.

“Most of all, it shines a light on Australia’s history, bringing focus to sacrifices and contributions which have helped build the resilient nation we are today.”

The story begins in China in the 1850s, before 13-year-old Yong makes an emotional journey to Ballarat, via Robe, South Australia, to find a golden fortune for his family.

Themes explored include facing fears, becoming an adult, and fulfilling duty to family.

Charles Zhang, the president of the Chinese Australian Cultural Society Ballarat, has been a consultant throughout the development of the play, which features vocal performances by local singers, and has been directed by Darren Yap.

“I’ve never really told a story this close to my heart and my DNA,” Yap said. “[It’s] a love letter to his father.”

Yong will premiere on Saturday, 27 August at 7pm, with a pre-show Welcome to Country, and performance by the Chinese Sunset Choir from 6.15pm.

The play will then tour Victoria, with shows in Portland, Warrnambool, Colac, Mildura and Bendigo.

Funding from the Federal Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand Fund, and the Australia Council, has boosted the production.