A sweeping tale of courage and cultural identity is set to captivate Victorian audiences as Yong: The Journey of an Unworthy Son begins its state tour at Arts Centre Melbourne from 30 July.
This groundbreaking one-man show from Australia’s acclaimed Monkey Baa Theatre Company brings to life the little-told stories of Chinese migrants during the 1857 Gold Rush through the eyes of a reluctant 13-year-old protagonist.
Adapted from Janeen Brian’s award-winning novel by writer Jenevieve Chang (The Good Girl of Chinatown), the production follows young Yong as he’s torn from his Chinese village and thrust into the harsh realities of Victoria’s goldfields by his ambitious father.
Actor Alan Zhu delivers a tour-de-force performance, seamlessly embodying multiple characters as the story navigates between historical fact and poignant fiction.
“This work is a love letter to my father,” says director Darren Yap, who brings deeply personal connection to the production. Chang describes it as “a universally resonant story about stepping out of shadows to find oneself,” while highlighting its importance in acknowledging Chinese-Australian contributions to the nation’s development.
The innovative staging combines James Browne’s dynamic set design with Max Lambert’s original score (featuring Ballarat community voices) and striking audiovisual elements. Movement direction by Angie Diaz and atmospheric lighting from Ben Brockman transport audiences across continents and emotional landscapes.
More than a period drama, Yong speaks directly to contemporary young audiences about family duty, cultural displacement and personal resilience. Its Victorian premiere comes after successful development supported by Creative Australia and regional partners including Her Majesty’s Theatre Ballarat.
Tour Dates:
- 30 July – 4 August :The Show Room, Arts Centre Melbourne
- 7 – 8 August: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat
- 12 August : Riverlinks, Shepparton
- 18 – 19 August : Bunjil Place, Narre Warren
- 20 – 21 August : The Round, Nunawading
- 23 August : Clocktower Centre, Moonee Ponds
- 26 August: Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo
