By Claire DeMarco
John (Trieu Tran) works for a British master and his daughter, Miss Julie (Shelby Garrett) in a house in Hong Kong. His girlfriend, Christine (Yan Pang) serves as the all-round domestic in that same household.
After World War II Hong Kong is still controlled by the British, although their influence is waning.
Julie loves both John and Christine although she often doesn’t show it. She’s been reared in Hong Kong. Exposed to Chinese culture but as part of the white hierarchy, there are social boundaries that can’t be crossed.
There has always been a reckoning that the upper and lower classes don’t mix. This “upstairs, downstairs” mentality may soon be broken as John has aspirations for independence. His potential wealth and growth would take him outside of his social class.
Christine is content being the obedient servant and is the only moral person in the household. She embraces Chinese traditions but is also a faithful Christian.
Julie has a more selfish outlook on life. She wants to be entertained and satisfied constantly. It is apparent that she never had the parental attention she now seeks in others.
There is a definite distinction and division in the two classes within the household. Not only a division by class, race and culture, but also the rancor of colonialism.
When Julie decides to break all social barriers by meandering “downstairs” into John’s world, everything changes.
Note: Playwright Amy Ng’s adaptation of “Miss Julie” incorporates more than differences in social class. By adapting the play as if it occurred in the 20th century it can and does include distinctions in race and culture, along with the concept of colonialism.
Pict’s production of “Miss Julie” is outstanding, beautifully presented and well-acted.
Garrett is excellent as the tormented Miss Julie. She transitions easily from the spoiled young woman who demands attention from John. She is a crazed, confused woman whose emotions and rationale are fluid and easily changed. In spite of her behavior, Garrett conveys a sense of sadness a troubled soul.
Tran is a dynamo. His desire to move and grow out of his current station in life is palpable. He has a wide range of emotions – funny and endearing, at times subservient, angry and combative, physically threatening. He is an equal opponent in his and Julie’s psychological warfare.
As the domestic servant Pang keeps her cool most of the time, capitulating to both John and Miss Julie. When she finally reaches her limit, Pang lets loose, freeing herself from the demure, always acquiescing person to a woman with a mind of her own.
Mimi Jong as Auntie has no vocal lines but her presence as “Auntie’s Ghost” as she gently glides across the stage or plays the Erhu is soothing.
“Miss Julie” was written by August Strindberg with adaptation by Amy Ng.
Scenic Design by Tucker Topel is exquisite and artistically presented. Bob Steineck complements the set as Lighting Designer.
Kudos to Director to Elizabeth Elias Huffman.
-CED
“Miss Julie” runs from April 18th to May 4th at Carnegie Stage, 25 West Main Street, Carnegie, PA. 15106. For tickets and additional information, click here.
