Curve Theatre Leicester – until 24th May 2025
Reviewed by Amarjeet Singh
4****
Kim’s Convenience began as a hugely successful play at the Canadian Fringe Festival which transitioned into an equally successful tv show on Netflix. This stage version borrows some moments from the show, but it stands as a slice of Korean convenience store life in its own right. A homage to his Korean immigrant parents, writer Ins Choi presents a beautifully told, tender story about a family who love each other deeply but sometimes struggle to show it. Different generations of immigrants, with different priorities, values and goals means that arguments are inevitable. Kim, the father and store owner, along with his wife Umma, feel they are obliged to do everything for their children. They need to uphold their traditions and are fiercely proud of this role and their standing in their community. Their children are embracing their newfound home in Canada, choosing to forgo taking over the store and instead forge their own lives. Daughter Janet is deciding to embrace the arts and become a photographer and son Jung has left mysteriously under the shadow of a cloud.
Kim’s Convenience explores expectations, honour, racism, Koreas rich proud history and traditional roles. The main themes of home and family are expertly displayed along with the colourful produce in the store. This 75 min production is chock full of humour and pathos, perfectly balanced by director Esther Jun.
James Yi is amazing as Kim, the quick witted, fast talking, stubborn and loveable patriarch. He lights up the stage in every scene. Candace Leung as Umma, is gentle and wonderful to watch. The scenes with Yi where they converse in Korean are stunning. We understand every word, their facial expressions and movement transcend language. Caroline Donica as Janet offers some fire and feist as their independent and artistic daughter. Daniel Phung is great as their estranged son Jung, dealing with his struggle to straddle the cultural divide and shrouded in mystery. Andrew Gichigi steals the show playing multiple characters, embodying them all fully, including accents. He plays various customers and Janets childhood crush. He is utter perfection.
Kim’s Convenience is an authentic show about the immigrant experience. A hilarious and heartwarming play that explores feelings of identity and family connections, with a satisfying story arc.