The Society for New Cuisine

Omnibus Theatre

Fung's writing paints a picture of darkness and desperation where side characters are interestingly created through his use of technical elements. This is edge of your seat tension mixed dark comedy.

After its successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2023, Chris Fung's piece 'The Society for New Cuisine' has made its return to stage and is playing at the Omnibus Theatre in Camden till April 5th.

Darkness fills the room, and the audience are left in silence as this show begins. The black box theatre is set so the stage is in the centre and the audience are placed each side, displaying almost 'Thrust' stage elements. This piece explores how mental health can be affected by the overbearing pressures of society, culture and family. One man is lead down a dark path as his life falls down a negative, downward spiral. He faces the end of his marriage, the terminal illness of a close family member and his workplace piling on the load; when he needs the space and time to process what is going on. There is no escaping the tug of war those around you are playing with your life... or is there an easier, sexier option?

The director is Rupert Hands, who has previously directed 2024's 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' at the London Palladium, he was also an associate director of Jamie Llyod's 7x Olivier award winning 'Sunset Boulevard' 2024 and is soon to work on this year's production of Jamie Llyod's adaptation of 'Evita'. His style emphasises the tension of Fung's writing and embellishes the pictures that he has painted in the words spoken by the character. There is no moment or movement that feels unplanned, the attention to detail for each action, reaction and transition ensures the audience are locked into the story; with no moment for getting lost in their fleeting thoughts. The way the technology that is scattered around the stage paints pictures of his tangled life, mental state, and represents characters and moments. Symbolism is a clever technique used throughout. For instance, as you enter the space Fung is sat at the bottom of the stage, cross legged, in front of a grey wall covered with images of people's sinister faces with their mouths open. This shows how the character feels his needs are below those around him and how they are chewing away parts of his life.

Chris Fung's performance is also energetic and symbolic. He controls his voice to present his feelings towards his life events, the journey of processing these feelings and moments of pushing away those around him when he is presented an opportunity. The way he reacts to lighting elements and moves in time with cues creates the image of other characters. For instance, in moments another voice is played; he will sharply turn to where the light is on and deliver his lines to the light and react to what is said. This is so convincing, that you will find yourself turning to see if there is another figure there. There are moments that are lost from jumping from story to emotion; you do long for a moment to digest Fung's writing. However, the character also longs for a moment to digest what is going on, his curious character is clearly presented.

Lighting and sound are playful additions to the piece. As previously mentioned, there are lighting elements by Rajiv Pattani that present side characters, such as shadows. Lighting also shows mood and creates tension. There is a moment where his path is lit by spotlights and at the end the examination table. The use of this element shows how his character is being led to this extreme. The sound by Jamie Lu, plays voices, background sounds and his loud thoughts getting louder and louder shows the pressure piled on him. Whilst at the same time showing the seduction of the 'Society for New Cuisine' how it is inviting him in and offering him an easier life, with open, warming arms... all for his sacrifice. The technical elements have provided the story a deeper lens for the audience to understand the tale, whilst providing moments for them to piece together areas that are not spoon fed and this heightens the intensity of the show.

This is one for lovers of the theatre, for something unique and dark. So much attention to every tiny detail is evident and impressive. However, how clearly plotted the show is, you do find yourself craving a further understanding and connection with the character. This could be achieved through slowing down moments where the character is talking about how he feels and having a moment with the audience where he is letting out his vulnerability. It lacks a relationship with the audience at times. The tension the story builds, how the audience is locked into the story and the imagery created through the writing and technical elements is a marvellous display of theatre art. Audience's senses are used to follow along the journey, you feel the moments he describes, the temperature, the feelings and the visuals. A very impressive element. The show has a deep meaning, that everyone can relate to in their own way, and it does not have to go as far as this story. It's empowering, beautiful and well written!

I just wanted to write a little section about mental health. This piece is a beauty, but it is very intense, and I think it is always important to highlight what help there is available out there for those who are struggling. This piece is right we do give so much of our valuable time, energy to so many elements of our lives and it is so imperative to look after ourselves. Whether that be through self-care, help and talking to people. Never forget how important your life is and being physically and mentally healthy. How can you help others to your best ability when you are unwell? You come first!

Mind is a great mental health charity, and they have a grand website for navigating how to get support: https://www.mind.org.uk

Samaritans have a divine helpline to talk over the phone, write a letter or even email if you are having a dark time or just need someone to give you non-judgemental advice: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

You can also contact 'Shout' if you prefer texting when you need mental health support: https://giveusashout.org

Always make sure to try and go to your GP for medical advice, referrals or suggestions for more tailored therapy and if you are in need of immediate help, because your physical health is at harm contact 111. Medical professionals and trained mental health professionals are important for getting the correct and safest help. You are important, your feelings are important, and your health is very important. Always put yourself first!