Review: THE TRUTH ABOUT LYING at The Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy For Performing Arts

The Truth About Lying presents an examination of modern relationships within the bustling backdrop of Hong Kong. Written by WONG Wing Sze, the play portrays complex characters grappling with love, commitment, and the spectre of divorce. However, while some elements are masterfully executed, others feel like unnecessary fillers, detracting from the overall impact.

The narrative centres on CK, a reserved and intelligent man, and his wife Laura, a powerful law firm partner. Dayo WONG delivers a compelling performance as CK, embodying the character's passivity with grace. His ability to convey depth through silence and well-timed pauses adds an intriguing layer to the story. In stark contrast, Carina LAU shines as Laura, portraying her with a sharp, decisive edge that reflects her status as a wealthy businesswoman. The dynamic between the two is palpable, illustrating the strain of their marital discord.

One of the standout performances comes from YEUNG Sze Man, who plays Maria, a rich socialite seeking divorce after suspecting her husband of infidelity. Known for her comedic roles, Yeung transitions seamlessly into the darker aspects of her character, skilfully balancing humour with the gravity of mourning. Her performance is a testament to her versatility and adds significant emotional weight to the production.

While the play's chinese name is titled 香港式離婚 (literal translation: Hong Kong Style Divorce), the elements that distinctly represent Hong Kong are somewhat limited, primarily manifesting in the use of swearing. This raises questions about the cultural specificity of the narrative; although the setting is distinctly Hong Kong, the themes could resonate universally.

The costume design by CHEUNG Shuk Ping deserves praise for bringing glamour and sophistication to the characters, perfectly complementing the world of high-powered lawyers and affluent clients. Credit also goes to lighting design, WONG Yu Hang, and stage design, YIP Cheuk Tong, who have together created some visually stunning and grand pieces. The visual aesthetics enhance the narrative, grounding the characters in their social milieu.

Despite the strong performances and excellent design, the production's book and direction leave room for improvement. While the play ambitiously explores various relationships, it could benefit from a tighter script. Lengthy scene transitions, some lasting nearly a minute, disrupt the flow, leading to moments where the momentum wanes.

In conclusion, The Truth About Lying offers a blend of humour and some emotional depth, showcasing capable actors and engaging character dynamics. However, with a more streamlined narrative and tighter direction, it could have reached greater heights. As it stands, it is a commendable exploration of love and divorce, albeit with some missed opportunities.