Kim's Convenience, created by Ins Choi and directed by Esther Jun, is an exceptional piece of feel good theatre that offers a slice of life in the Kim household. The play, originally written and performed in 2011, has since found new life in the Netflix series of the same name, and with numerous stage revivals.
The play doesn't have a particularly dramatic plot, choosing instead to offer a glimpse into the everyday life at the Kim's Convenience, which is what makes this show so irresistible and successful. The many layers that are slowly discussed, observed and confronted make every moment that much more meaningful. The play starts with Mr. Kim being offered a generous sum of money to sell his store, to make room for a Walmart. Mr. Kim then begins to question what his story (legacy) is, and how this affects his family, particularly children Janet and Jung.
Kim's Convenience tasks itself with providing an authentic narrative of first and second generation immigrants, and the East Asian (Korean) culture and customs. The play, although primarily light-hearted and hilarious, is ultimately the story of hopes, dreams, success and failure. The use of emotional guilt, family obligations and duties, and tradition runs through the piece, undercutting the humour with a sharp sting of responsibility. This is particularly evident in arguments between Mr. Kim and Janet, who is a photographer.
The cast do an excellent job, with James Yi (Appa) and Caroline Donica (Janet) as the standout performers. Yi is brings out every nuance of Mr. Kim, and is equal parts lovable and frightening. Yi quickly wins over the audience with his bold observations, dad jokes, friendly relationships with customers and a fierce sense of pride for the store. Wonderfully animated, yet so deeply human, Yi's Appa becomes an authentic figurehead for thousands of first generation immigrants.
Donica's Janet is a strong opposition, infusing the piece with vulnerability, unconditional love and fatigue from the constant pressure. Struggling to slip out of her father's shadow, Janet challenges tradition and strives to make her own. Donica brings out this determination with ease, making audiences root for her.
Andrew Gichigi is a charming addition as Alex, Janet's love interest. With a refreshing shyness, Gichigi's Alex is adorable in all the right ways, but it's his unabashed romantic interest and cheerful nature that neatly combats the Kim's more passionate conversations. Gichigi also takes on a variety of smaller roles, in a revolving door moment at the start of the show, with four back to back character changes as different customers and acquaintances. Candace Leung as Umma has a small, yet significant role, as she deciphers Appa's actions in quieter moments of the play with Jung with a steadfast loyalty and wisdom. Daniel Phung as Jung has another small role, yet his presence rolls over the rest of the show. Phung brings out the stark regret and desperation of Jung with a strong performance.
The set, designed by Mina Camille, is brilliant, resembling the small but well-stocked and welcoming convenience store. With racks of snacks, drink fridges and daily necessities, the attention to detail is impressive. The use of sound effects to denote the store door being opened, or murmurs of passing cars adds to this (Adrienne Quartly) and fluorescent lights atop the dramatic usual stage lighting (Jonathan Chan) help audiences feel privy to the Kim's lives. Also a smaller second movable set piece helps to create a small church window, fitting in well to create the more vulnerable moments between Umma and Jung.
The play wins audiences over with its humour and heart within minutes, yet it's the unspoken depths that really push the piece to new heights of brilliance. The weight of great expectations burden Janet and Jung, both self-imposed and from external factors, and makes for a really compelling piece that encourages families to reflect on dynamics and relationships. The piece is careful to never dive too deep into these discussions, often reverting to a funny moment immediately after to elevate the mood, yet when the laughter fades, the heavy truth is what audiences will take with them.
Kim's Convenience is an exceptionally strong piece that remains as relevant as ever. Kim's Convenience is the story of community, told through the Kim family. An unmissable piece of theatre, it is currently on tour and is playing at the Rose Theatre in London until 29th March.
★★★★★ (5*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Victoria Davies
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