There is more than one question that permeates the mind leaving The Society for New Cuisine on press night but the most prevalent in the aftermath – is he really going to eat those fingers? 

Chris Fung’s solo show is a punching, powerful new work that leaves you dumbfounded, shocked and a little on edge, in the best way possible. 

Art is often for the masses, palatable and pleasurable to watch. The Society of New Cuisine is surely not palatable or seemingly pleasurable but it is brilliant if not incredibly visceral and different. Fung’s writing speaks to the very inner depths of the human soul and pierces through layers of emotional armour to address deep trauma.

Writing from a place of realism and with great purpose, Fung has to be one of the great, undiscovered wordsmiths of this generation. His words are like poetry, each one seemingly hand selected to perfectly power his message. It flows like music, lyrical and entrancing, capturing the audience entirely. It is not only his brilliant writing that shines but his performance here.

Fung has an innate openness and vulnerability that draws you to him, a likeability that is second to none. He displays versatility, from boyish and joyous, to broken and withered. The physicality of his acting and portrayal is worthy of grand stages, his presence palpable and his passion fervent. It’s a masterclass in embodiment, intention and truthfulness. 

Directed by Rupert Hands, this particular production uses the medium of sound to aid in its overall success. Some moments beg the question “Is this technology, ALL of this technology truly necessary to the show?” There is no doubt that Fung’s performance is powerful enough without it, and arguably having him alone would in some ways be more impactful.

However, in this venue, and seated in traverse, there is an argument to be made that this was a strong choice, if not an entirely necessary one. Nonetheless the use of the sound did not take away from the message of the show, nor did I feel it enhanced it. The sound design is handled with great skill by Jamie Lu who shows prowess in a variety of forms. Rajiv Pattani’s lighting design on the other hand is essential to the overall sense and feel of the piece. It is expertly handled and every choice only adds to Fung’s already brilliant script and performance. 

Chris Fung’s “The Society for New Cuisine” is an outstanding piece of theatre, written with care and craft and performed with extraordinary skill. This is fringe theatre at its height. Whilst it may not be recommended for a fun or light night out, it is essential viewing for anyone who fancies exceptional theatre. 

Five Stars.

Review by Olivia Ruggiero.

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Photo credit Kenny Kung.