Theatre Local: Tell us a bit about your piece, what’s it about?

Marjorie Chan: It’s dim sum which many people are familiar with. In my circle of friends, it is usually a time to reconnect.  Since I am in Hong Kong, I thought I would explore an artistic recreation of that feeling even though I am not there physically.

TL: What led you to create this piece?

MC: I’m fascinated by Small Audiences because, personally, I always enjoy being one of the lucky few who got to experience it.  That’s what makes theatre magical.  It’s ephemeral and once it’s gone, it’s gone!

TL: 5AM is really early/late, how do you feel about being presented at this time?

MC: I hope that people can be bribed with treats.

Marjorie is a multi-disciplinary theatre artist based in Toronto. As a writer, her works have been performed in the United States, Scotland, Hong Kong, Russia and across Canada. She has been in artist-in-residence with Tapestry New Opera, Cahoots Theatre Company, Theatre Direct Canada, SUNY (Geneseo, New York) and Theatre du Pif (Hong Kong). Most recently Marjorie assistant-directed Maria Stuarda (Pacific Opera Victoria) and A Synonym for Love (Volcano Theatre). Marjorie’s other direction has included Late (Obsidian Theatre) and the Asia Premiere of Knives in Hens for Theatre du Pif, in Hong Kong (Theatre Highlight of 2010, Best Actor – HK Libre Awards). A five-time nominee, Marjorie is the recipient of two Dora Awards, one each for acting and writing. She has also received the K.M. Hunter Artist’s Award in Theatre. Other notable nominations include the Governor General’s Literary Award for her playwriting debut, China Doll and the Canadian Citizen Award for her work with Crossing Gibraltar – a theatre program for young refugees. Current libretti-in-progress include a contemporary adaptation of Medea, with composer John Harris (Tapestry/Scottish Opera) and The Lesson of Da Ji, with composer Alice Ho (Toronto Masque Theatre). Current projects include directing A Doll’s House (in Cantonese/English) for Theatre du Pif in Hong Kong, and co-creating Fare Game: Life in Toronto’s Taxis, a documentary theatre show premiering at Theatre Passe Muraille November 2012.
www.marjoriechan.com