Susan Granger’s review of “Kim’s Convenience” (Westport Country Playhouse)
What fun to hear laughter reverberating through the Westport Country Playhouse again!
The perceptive comedy “Kim’s Convenience” revolves around gruff Mr. Kim (David Shih) – a.k.a. Appa – an immigrant who, many years ago, opened a neighborhood grocery store in Toronto, Canada. He’s a Korean Archie Bunker, bragging how he can immediately spot a shoplifter while spewing exaggerated racism and stereotypical prejudices, particularly against the Japanese..
His totally assimilated, 30 year-old daughter, Janet (Cindy Im), is an aspiring photographer. Since she’s still single and living at home, her devoted mother – a.k.a. Umma (Chuja Seo) – is understandably concerned – at least until Alex (Eric R. Williams), a local policeman, shows up.
Then there’s Janet’s older brother, Jung (Hyunmin Rhee), the prodigal son who showed great scholastic potential but abruptly left home at age 16 after a horrific fight with Appa, who is adept at martial arts.
Now, Appa’s big worry concerns the future, his legacy. Who will run his beloved store when he no longer can? Since the neighborhood is gradually gentrifying, he’s received a generous offer to sell, but he’s determined not to.
Playwright Ins Choi and director Nelson T. Eusebio III adroitly explore the delicate generational balance between gratitude and ingratitude in a poignant relationship drama that’s, not surprisingly, filled with subtle conflict.
Led by patriarchal protagonist David Shih, the intricate cultural bond that binds the ensemble cast is palpable, even endearing. Kudos to set designer You-Shin Chen, costumer Lux Haac, lighting designer Marie Yokoyama with sound design by Twi McCullum.
If the plot – heartache leavened with humor and hope – sounds a bit like a sit-com/soap opera, it should – since Choi’s play, which made its debut at the 2011 Toronto Fringe Festival, subsequently spawned a Netflix show, also titled “Kim’s Convenience,” that has completed its fifth season.
FYI: Audience members must present proof of vaccination and wear a mask at all times while inside the Westport Country Playhouse. It’s just a shame that “Kim’s Convenience” plays such a short run, closing on Sunday, July 17. Catch it while you can.