The actor Derek Chan discusses the new production he’s starring in A Taste of Hong Kong (06-15 March 2025, with Joseph Planta.

Text of the introduction by Joseph Planta:

I am Planta: On the Line, in Vancouver, British Columbia, at TheCommentary.ca.

Derek Chan joins me again. He is starring in the world premiere of A Taste of Hong Kong, a new production from Pi Theatre in association with Vancouver Asian Canadian Theatre. The play is written by Anonymous. I’ll ask Derek about why the playwright has chosen anonymity, which is especially interesting considering the politics in and around Hong Kong, and frankly, around the world at the moment. As the production’s director Richard Wolfe says, the show indirectly shines a light on the reality of self-censorship in Canada. I’ll also get Derek to reflect on the timeliness of this show, in light of the rise of authoritarianism not just around the world but next door. In the show, Derek’s character Jackie Z provides insight as to the history of Hong Kong from the colonial era to the present, and through food. We’ll discuss the tasty samples to be had at the show, and just how resilient the people of Hong Kong are, and have been throughout its history. The show begins in previews Thursday, 06 March 2025, opening the next evening, and runs until March 15^th at the Vancity Culture Lab, 1895 Venables Street. Visit www.thecultch.com for tickets and information. Before we get to the interview that we taped ten days ago, I should like to note that Derek’s been on the program before about a show he’s performing in or one that he’s conceived. His work has always dealt with the personal and the political, and invariably the two are inseparable. In the past, in 2023 and 2021, we’ve talked about contemporary challenges that the people in Hong Kong face amidst a larger superpower right next door with other designs. The conversations are always timely with Derek, and unfortunately today, the talk about how to contend with questions of sovereignty and self-determination are not only timely but urgent. A Taste of Hong Kong also has a lot of heart and joy, as you’ll hear from Derek. Please welcome back to the Planta: On the Line program, Derek Chan; Mr. Chan, good morning.

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