BESEA & ESEA Rock ‘n’ roll - music & comedy at Moongate Mix #4 at Omnibus Theatre (Ken Cheng/Yau/Yuriko Kotani/Wondermare)
Like some other ESEA I’ve spoken to, I’ve been finding it hard to leave the house. At the same time, I really needed a change of scene for my mental health.
So I decided to go on a date with myself .. to a riveting ESEA (East & Southeast Asian) show!
“What might it feel like to perform live again?” - one question that drew me to MoonGate Production's 4th Moongate Mix at OmnibusTheatre
After 5 electric️ BESEA and ESEA performances I can’t wait to!!
Read on and find out more…
NB: This is an UN-official review with blurry snaps!Through a squid’s eyes…
BESEA country punk trio Wondermare MAKE ME WANT TO BE IN A BAND AGAIN. ESEA Riot Grrrrl is alive & well. Political lyrics & frenetic mandolin - on point, funny & raucous!
BESEA Yau (Sophie Yau-Sylvestre) has a voice like silk (a cliche ? but true!) with live Chet Baker trumpet vibes. I agree with Yau about Spotify! Check out her tender, soulful music w. expansive textures!
Japanese comedian Yuriko Kotani yells hilarious comments on rude white men, ribald thunderbolts & other familial/work surprises. Poss the 4th ever ESEA female stand up I’ve seen - feels v. healing!
Seeing Ken Cheng, I want to indulge my bright retro sports top fantasy even tho I look terrible in orange! After Ken’s disturbing reveal, I’m not sure I wish to see the film Ratatouille but I do (contrary to his advice!) wanna try stand up!
Who’s the 5th?!!
Makan Malaysia of course! The star of the show which lured me all the way to south was the Nasi Lemak (jackfruit & shiitake mushroom rendang), veggie fritters & pandan cakes.
Shout also to Hag (reclaiming the word “hag”) & ritually prepared vegan botanical balms & oils who had a cute holly adorned stall.
Overall verdict: I had a cool time at this ESEA festival of frankness. AND… now I want to move to South London!
Mental health resources
THERAPY
BAATN - The Black, African and Asian therapy network (UK)
Pink Therapy - Gender and Sexual Diversity Therapy in the UK
UK HELPLINES
Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline: 0300 330 0630
Mind Infoline: 0300 123 3393
Samaritans: Call 116 123
Wherever you are, whatever you need - support lines
Check out my #StopAsianHate & LGBTIQA+ pop song..
Listen to Asians Have Feelings Too on Spotify
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