What do we pass on to our children? Our features? Our culture? Our mannerisms? Our music tastes?
What do we pass on to our children? Our features? Our culture? Our mannerisms? Our music tastes? Passing looks at the question of what is important to pass on, and the consequences of leaving things behind. Yash has (for deeper reasons only hinted at in the play) entirely abandoned the cultural traditions of his Indian parents, and done his best to assimilate. Rachel (his mixed race daughter) is desperate to reconnect with her own Indian heritage before her paternal grandfather (Yash’s father) passes away. In order to achieve this Rachel organises the family’s very first celebration of Diwali – determined to bring Indian culture into their lives before it’s too late.
The play’s exploration of the Singh family’s intricate, and tempestuous relationships as well as the clash between characters of different generations and cultural backgrounds is thought-provoking. Conversations about micro-aggressions, and bullying are intensely relevant today, and an older generation accusing the younger of being ‘too soft’ is no doubt happening in living rooms and on screens all over the country. Sareen balances these rather heady issues with some great laughs and dour one-liners ably delivered by his excellent cast.
Amy-Leigh Hickman’s performance as Rachel, a character struggling with where she fits in, is moving and relatable throughout. Catherine Cusack is funny, and heartbreaking as Rachel’s mother (Ruth) who is desperate to help Rachel, and get it right. Jack Flammiger beautifully embodies Rachel’s well-meaning but often misguided boyfriend (Matt), as he attempts to navigate the complexities of Rachel and her family, and Kishore Walker seems very at home playing the snarky, gibing second favourite child (David).
The content is there, the script however would benefit from some cuts. The production, currently runs at over two hours. Both acts are slowed by some overly baggy scenes, and some debates that are repeated by multiple characters with similar views.
Passing has strong performances and is intensely relevant in this age of questioning one’s own identity. The play would benefit from a more streamlined approach.