In Is There Work On Mars?, Faye Yan brings us to an automated testing lab, prior to a young woman’s immigration to Mars. Although demanding some further confidence in both performance and plot, Yan’s show is a brilliantly vibrant study of systemic failures – and how such failures are not our personal failures.
The show’s reflections on intersectionality – particularly, in relation to race and neurodiversity – are both insightful and pertinent. Likewise, reflections on adolescence are deeply poignant. We’re transported to an unforgiving classroom and a university party; utilising these settings, Yan expertly portrays how the need to conform within them breeds poor mental health. Despite such depth, Is There Work On Mars? keeps matters playful with a bleep test, a cheer routine and a game of beer pong; such is the delightful absurdity of Yan’s writing.
At times, Is There Work On Mars? loses itself. Moments which demand a certain vitality fall somewhat flat; narratives stagnate and theatrical devices grow worn. Undeniably, however, Yan is an inventive storyteller; the sheer kaleidoscopic brilliance of Is There Work On Mars? is most certainly testament to this.
Is There Work on Mars?, ZOO Playground, until 24 Aug (not 20), 4.30pm