Eurasian comedy with an Aussie bent

Vanessa Bates knows what it’s like to feel different. The Eurasian writer spent her part of her childhood in Malaysia before moving to regional Australia with her family. 

“When I was growing up I knew nobody like me. There was no other kid who was Eurasian – except for my sisters,” says Bates. “You know, as a kid you always try to fit in, but of course you’re always aware that you can’t because you don’t look the same.”

That experience of alienation and cultural friction has informed much of her writing, not least her latest play, The One, which was commissioned by The Ensemble Theatre. 

“It’s about a brother and sister who are preparing for their mother to visit them – they haven’t seen her for years,” says Bates. “She’s Malaysian and they’re afraid that maybe they’ve made lifestyle choices that she won’t agree with and they’re both anxious about her return.”

The siblings have organised a special event at a Chinese restaurant they used to go as kids. 

“And everything that can go wrong, does!”

Bates’ writing is insightful and funny.  She admits to often using humour as a Trojan Horse to deliver a deeper message. “I’m a firm believer in that whole idea of making people laugh and punching them in the gut at the same time.”

The brother and sister at the centre of the plot are called Mel and Eric and they had been ballroom dancing champions in the past – quite idiosyncratically Australian. Their mother’s visit will force them to reconcile with the other half of their cultural identity. 

Darren Yap, the director, is Malaysian and some other members of the cast and crew are Asian or Eurasian. It’s created great rapport and helped them all relate easily to the script. 

“I have been in rehearsals with these people and laughed so much I fell against the wall at what they were doing –  but then cried,” says Bates. 

With three years to develop the play (thanks to COVID), Bates is thrilled with the result, in particular with some of the production elements. Nick Fry has created “amazing costumes” and Michael Tan’s music, including an original song, is “fantastic”. She also has high praise for the Ensemble company and staff and is really looking forward to sharing that joy with an audience. 

July 22 – Aug 27, Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall St, Kirribilli;  $38 – $80 + bf, Tickets and Info: www.ensemble.com.au/shows/the-one/