‘Exotic Deadly: Or the MSG Play’ Review: A Humorous Exploration of Identity
The San Francisco Playhouse presented the Northern California premiere of ‘Exotic Deadly: Or the MSG Play’, a comedic yet poignant production penned by Keiko Green. Set against the backdrop of 1999, this play serves as a commentary on cultural acceptance and the stereotypes surrounding Asian cuisine, particularly the misconceptions around monosodium glutamate (MSG).
Plot Overview
The narrative follows 14-year-old Ami, portrayed by Ana Ming Bostwick-Singer, who grapples with her Japanese identity and the familial expectations that come with it. As she explores her cultural heritage, Ami encounters various surreal experiences, including time-traveling escapades that reflect her internal struggles with acceptance and self-esteem.
Character Dynamics and Performances
Ami’s journey is punctuated by humorous interactions with her family, including her mother, played by Nicole Tung, and her brother, portrayed by James Aaron Oh. These interactions highlight the comedic tension between cultural traditions and the desire for invisibility in social settings.
Supportive performances come from Phil Wong, who impressively embodies a flamboyant newscaster, adding humorous commentary to the family’s breakfast scenes. Meanwhile, Edric Young plays multiple roles, adding depth and contrast to the production.
Thematic Exploration
One of the standout features of the play is its engaging critique of societal racism that has shaped negative perceptions of Asian food. Through humor, the production addresses these biases while providing a relatable, coming-of-age story. The inclusion of memorable 90s references, such as popular TV shows and cultural icons, adds a nostalgic layer that resonates with audiences.
Innovative Storytelling Techniques
The play’s innovative approach includes personifying MSG as a character, played by Francesca Fernandez. This creative decision tackles the stigma attached to MSG, illustrating how cultural elements can be misconstrued and misunderstood. The character evolves through various personas, embodying both the stereotypes and the resilience of the immigrant experience in America.
Production Elements
Director Jesca Prudencio skillfully navigates the tone of the play, blending humor with striking visuals. The use of props and costume design, notably by Kathleen Qiu, effectively enhances the storytelling, such as a character sporting a plastic visor that humorously accentuates her ‘keyboard warrior’ persona.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, the play sometimes veers into narrative territory that feels unfocused, especially during sequences that explore Ami’s grandfather, represented as a less impactful character. Certain dream sequences could benefit from tighter scripting to maintain the audience’s engagement throughout the performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘Exotic Deadly: Or the MSG Play’ is a vibrant, comedic exploration of identity and belonging that addresses cultural stereotypes head-on while providing an enjoyable theater experience. With some refinement in its narrative focus, this production has the potential to fully realize its promise and leave a lasting impact.
For those interested in experiencing this intriguing blend of humor and cultural commentary, the play is running through March 8 at the San Francisco Playhouse, located at 450 Post St. Tickets range from $35 to $135.
For more information about the play and to purchase tickets, visit the San Francisco Playhouse website.
