Art Journal #22: Writing in Water, by Stan Lai

水中之書; 賴聲川. Delightful performance by HK Repertory Theatre, story written and directed by the renowned Stan Lai. The project didnt start with a completed script - Stan basically came with a few ideas, and then brainstormed with the HK Rep cast to come out with a story that's very much a true "team work". It's hilarious at times (Stan always have humor to keep you awake and keep it "easy to digest"!), it has an element of suspense, but deep down, it's a sad and almost huanting story about memories and people's past lives. Its an exploration of the meaning of happiness - and how (and how not) to get there. The design of character background is decidely HK - Jason is an investment bank VP who recently lost his job; so joining the rank of those "unhappy souls" in Central. His GF Vivienne teaches "happyology" - 5 classes for HK$8000 - but herself is lost and havent found her true self. Taken negatively, the story leaves you with a "warning" - rescue yourself from tradegies in your next life by not wronging others. Taken positively, its about "living in the moment" and listening to your inner self - the only path to true happiness. The stage was simple - but effective. There's no a lot of bells and whistles - but enough to offer you a "video" of the work. A delightful two hours