Out of Character is a rebellious reimagination of traditional love stories, produced by Prickly Ash.
Based on a fictional Hong Kong triad story, this work presents three original stories and adapted versions of fan fiction from a female perspective. Choosing a triad story as the subject of reflection is a clever choice, as it represents the extreme brotherhood and violent aesthetics of patriarchy. The girls’ imaginations break through the limitations of traditional narratives, answering the question of what would happen if the two male protagonists fell in love. Interestingly, the characters constantly shift between the identities of readers, writers, and roles, smoothly interweaving fantasy and reality. This non-linear narrative structure continuously sparks the audience’s curiosity and thirst for knowledge.
Out of Character is a term originating from BL novels, meaning that the author allows characters to behave in ways that are inconsistent with the original setting or say things that are inconsistent with their original personalities. The projection on stage introduces the chapter title, author, hashtag, rating, and warning. These details recreate the page display of a BL fiction website, just like reading the real one.
The actors highlight the contrast between the girls’ inner imaginations and the original story using their exceptional delivery of lines and physical techniques. The anger between the two characters in their confrontation suddenly transforms into tender care in the rewritten version. The actors create distinctly different character traits at the same time.
The live music from the hang drum is the most surprising element of Out of Character, adding a mysterious atmosphere to the story. As the characters’ emotions change, the background music becomes passionate or suspenseful. Although the hang drummer is not positioned on stage, the music coming from behind the audience creates a surround sound effect.
While bringing the ideas of a BL fan to the stage is an important innovation, it is a bit difficult for audiences unfamiliar with BL fictions to connect with the characters.
Out of Character is a drama full of twists and creativity that focuses on BL culture.
