A Taste of Empire, the thought-provoking play script by Jovanni Sy, serves up a delectable blend of history, culture, and culinary intrigue. Set against the backdrop of colonialism, the play takes the audience on a captivating journey through the lens of food, revealing the complex interplay between power, identity, and the human experience. https://talonbooks.com/authors/jovanni-sy
Sy’s narrative unfolds with a masterful touch, seamlessly weaving together historical events and personal stories. The protagonist, a skilled chef navigating the turbulent currents of colonialism, becomes a symbol of resistance and resilience. Through the culinary arts, the play explores how food becomes a powerful tool for cultural preservation and an expression of identity.
The mono-dialogue in A Taste of Empire is both poignant and humorous, capturing the nuances of the characters’ struggles and triumphs. Sy skillfully uses food as a metaphor for the multifaceted relationships between colonizers and the colonized. The culinary journey becomes a mirror reflecting the broader socio-political landscape, making the play not just an exploration of the past but a commentary on contemporary issues of power dynamics and cultural appropriation.
The dish presented in this one-man play is Rellenong Bangus found in our Recipe section. This Filipino dish can be labour intensive and usually eaten at celebrations and holidays. Not sure if you’d like the end product? Check out some Filipino markets and buy a prepared bangus and set off a culinary adventure!
One of the standout features of the script is its ability to transport the audience through time and space. Sy’s vivid descriptions of dishes, flavors, and cooking techniques create a sensory experience that immerses the audience in the world of the play. The use of food as a narrative device is not only innovative but also adds a layer of accessibility that resonates with a diverse audience. Purchase a copy of this thought-provoking play at https://talonbooks.com/books/?a-taste-of-empire or enter to win the script in our Giveaway section.
Jovanni Sy’s A Taste of Empire is a compelling exploration of history, culture, and power dynamics through the lens of food. With its well-crafted narrative, engaging character, and timely themes, the play is a must-see for anyone interested in thought-provoking and immersive storytelling. Sy serves up a theatrical feast that lingers in the mind, inviting audiences to savor the complexities of the past and reflect on the present.
Contents and images used with permission by the publisher from A Taste of Empire © 2017 by Jovanni Sy, Talonbooks, Vancouver, B.C. https://talonbooks.com/books/?a-taste-of-empire
