Category: Reviews
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Theatre: Miss Saigon – a musical that can’t shake its problems
For many years I have shown little to no interest in watching Miss Saigon. A musical that’s been around since 1989 but has been constantly dogged by controversy regarding the storyline, characterisation and lyrics. However, I decided to give it a go to form my own opinion on its current…
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Theatre Review: 13 Going on 30 the musical
“13 Going on 30” is the latest in a long line of so-called romcom chick flicks from 20+ years ago to get the musical makeover treatment. It might bring back early 2000s feel-good nostalgia, but do the previews of this premiere new show in Manchester’s Opera House have what it…
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Film Review: The Wedding Banquet (2025)
Ang Lee’s 1993 film “The Wedding Banquet” is a classic LGBTQ/Asian American piece of cinema. It may not have necessarily really needed a remake, but Andrew Ahn’s modern take on it is warmly welcomed.
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Triple Review: Docile by Hyeseung Song, Shanghai Dolls at Kiln Theatre and Love Hurts starring Ke Huy Quan
In this first of future triple reviews, I lend my thoughts on Docile – Memoirs of a Not-So-Perfect Asian Girl by Hyeseung Song, the play Shanghai Dolls at Kiln Theatre and the film Love Hurts starring Ke Huy Quan.
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The Six Chinese Titanic survivors: Uncovering hidden British history with Voice ESEA’s ECHO exhibition
History author Steven Schwankert’s new book “The Six” uncovers the hidden and forgotten stories of the Titanic’s six Chinese survivors more than 100 years ago. Coinciding with the fateful anniversary and released as a companion to “The Six” documentary from 2021, this eye-opening book is surprisingly detailed and thought-provoking, and…
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Theatre Review: Death Becomes Her on Broadway
People should be careful about adapting classic films into musicals as it can either not work or at least just adds to the seemingly endless number that are done. However, the new musical version of the 1992 cult classic “Death Becomes Her” has been a hit on Broadway. Here is…
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Film Review: How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies
“How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” is the Thai film that is taking Southeast Asian cinema by storm with its heartbreaking yet beautiful and thought-provoking story about dealing with a loved one’s death but also celebrating their life. Out in UK cinemas from 26th December.
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Theatre: Make Way for Rose
Voice ESEA member Xindi Wei talks to “Make Way for Rose” writer and actress Runxuan Yang and director Kang Ting Ho . “Make Way for Rose” premiered at the Camden Fringe Festival in August this year.
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Film Review: Didi
“Didi” is this summer’s must-watch coming of age drama about a Taiwanese-American teenage boy who struggles to fit in and appeal to everyone. Another win for Asian representation on the big screen and hopefully an Oscar win for previously nominated director Sean Wang. Out in select UK cinemas from 2nd…
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Theatre Review: Burlesque the Musical
Ever since 2010, when Christina Aguilera made her debut on the silver screen as Ali and Cher returned to it after a decade in the now cult classic musical film “Burlesque” as Tess, gays and girls have loved its camp kitschness. Now it’s been re-immortalised as a brand new musical,…
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