The Visual and Audio Extravaganza of “13.67” The Visual and Audio Extravaganza of “13.67” The Visual and Audio Extravaganza of “13.67”

When I saw the synopsis for “13.67”, I wanted to see how one can successfully translate a novel on stage without losing the attention of the audience.

Mathias Woo successfully did this with technical competence that added a dimension of shared suspense and appreciation of aesthetics. Each scene presented the audience with something new to engage in. The sparse stage and presentational style of the first scene prompted an almost stylized play but changed in the scenes that followed. As scenes unfolded, new devices to help the storyline were introduced and it provided something for the audience to wonder about, for example the blue tinged videos about unrest around the world over timelines made me reflect on the senseless of unrest, yet showed people that they were not alone.

Two highlights for me were the music and the art. They were there for a purpose and not for novelty. The sensitivity and beauty of each and every piece was something I really appreciated.

I don’t understand Cantonese and the surtitles explained enough for me to follow. My companion who is well versed in both Chinese and English remarked that the translations were well done.

The Context at the beginning of the show was very helpful and I’m intrigued by the sound system (such well-balanced sound!) and the follow spot. I understand that this play has gone out to schools and has a history angle to it. I think it’s an ingenious way to make the subject interesting and relevant. My companion was especially taken up by the canto pop segment. He found it very enlightening!

My congratulations to the cast, crew and creative team. Please ask your ASM in blue overalls (editor’s note: one of the performers) to take a bow. He became an integral part of the story.

Thank you for a beautiful evening.