Review: Strong Ensemble Cast Carries Factory Theatre's BANANA BOYS

The second piece of Factory Theatre's Naked Season is Leon Aureus' BANANA BOYS, directed by Factory's artistic director Nina Lee Aquino. The ambitiously funny adaptation of the Terry Woo novel follows the lives of five Asian Canadians as they try to fit into the subculture of Canadian multiculturalism. This refreshing production is snappy, witty and treats audiences to a range of emotions.

The energy of the ensemble cast led by Simu Liu carries the production; their undeniable chemistry and brotherhood bring a sense of raw honesty. Darrel Gamotin, Matthew Gin, Philip Nozuka and Oliver Koomsatira join Liu to portray diverse characters who try to navigate a world and society where they are different - because they are Asian. The five struggle with fitting in, finding love and living up to the high expectations of their parents. Nina Lee Aquino's vision paired with the strong performances of the cast transform Factory's smaller Studio Theatre into a unique experience.

BANANA BOYS thrives where Factory's other production, AGE OF AROUSAL falls short - its staging. The clever direction and transitions based around a simple elevated set just works. The actors move across the open space and into the audience to bring a sense of intimacy - the wall between the audience and stage was non-existent. The stripped down, raw performance embodies the Naked Season.

However, the production's subject matter and tone is geared towards a younger audience. The room was divided throughout the two-hour performance; some were on the edge of their seat laughing while others were left puzzled and confused. Regardless, everyone in the room felt something at some point in the production - the intense climax before the end of the first act is filled with anger and discontent. The overarching theme of racial discrimination and the desire to fit in is universal.

Whether you come for the hilarious impersonations of overbearing Asian parents, or for the chilling and intense racial protests, it is undeniable that BANANA BOYS is a Canadian classic. 10 years after its world premiere it is still fresh, relevant and powerful.

BANANA BOYS is presented as part of Factory Theatre's Naked Season. On stage until November 22, 2015. More information at www.factorytheatre.ca.

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