In this tense and intimate drama, a ‘chicken war’ puts pressure on the marriage of a young couple in Qingdao, China. When the couple escalates the war to profit themselves, the underlying tension in their relationship is exposedRating
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A young couple stressed about their work sit down to an awkward breakfast, while next door a war rages between two factions of chickens. When a free egg rolls into their home, the couple see a chance to profit from the conflict. Chicken Droppings charts the breakdown of Yifei and Ming’s marriage as the stress of the chicken war pressures their relationship, building to a violent explosion of their marriage’s underlying conflicts. The tension rises well throughout, building to an intense conclusion.
This is supported by strong performances from both cast members, especially Tristen ZiJuin as Ming, who shifts from mild-mannered to violent with startling ferocity. His sudden shift in tone caught me by surprise, causing me to physically jump in my seat. This sudden switch accurately captures the unpredictable, simmering tension of domestic violence.
Reality and absurdity collide seamlessly in Dongmeng Chen’s script. The neighbouring chicken war is more complex than merely a fight between birds. There are factions and strategies at play, which add a note of humour to the tension, providing another layer to the story beyond what would otherwise be a kitchen-sink drama. The writing also touches on a political analogy, as Yifei (Clarissa Liaw) wants to aggravate the chicken war to profit from it, while Ming wants to ignore it and hope it goes away. This serves as a metaphor for different political philosophies, from conservatives wanting to exploit war for gain to liberals who throw up their hands and say, “there’s nothing to be done” or “it’s all too complicated”. Beyond these broad archetypes, the message about conflict was unclear, and Yifei and Ming swap positions on the chicken war during the narrative, which prevents the analogy from being fully explored.
The stress increases as the chickens invade the home, and the relationship between Yifei and Ming worsens. Moments of humour throughout the show provide welcome tonal variation. However, it’s not consistently funny. The absurdity of the chicken war escalates but does not reach a satisfying comedic payoff.
Chicken Droppings is set in China, specifically an apartment in the city of Qingdao, which adds an interesting additional layer to the characters and situation and provides some insight into the pressures to perform at work and fit into contemporary Chinese society. The story also touches on other cultural differences between China and the West, such as the importance of regional visas for work and how a job is essential to access social security. These details ratchet up the pressure on the couple’s domestic situation. While the story of a young couple under pressure is universal enough to be relatable, these additional specific details bring the characters to life.
Chicken Droppings is a tense, and at times funny show, with well-constructed characters and great performances. It touches on universally accessible themes, from relationships to war, while providing enough specificity to feel believable.
Directed by Zhaoyi Ying
Written by Dongmeng Chen
Produced by Lingquan Kong
Set & Lighting Design by Shunsuke Imai
Sound Design by Aoi Mizuno
Stage Management by Shunsuke Imai
Assistant Lighting Design By Heather Yuetong An
Chicken Droppings has completed its performances at the Etcetra Theatre as part of the Camden Fringe
