A gem of a novel is making its way to the Sydney stage with Belvoir St Theatre’s adaption of Vivian Pham’s The Coconut Children. At the centre of the story is the rad Gemma Chua-Tran, taking on yet another role as a young lass working out her way in the world, this time in the suburb of Western Sydney’s Cabramatta. We got chit-chatting to Gemma about the play, the community it crystallises, and a whole lot more in our chinwag below. Snag tickets to the play – showing from November 21st to December 26th – over here.

Tell us about your role in The Coconut Children and what the production is about. The production is about Vietnamese refugee families finding hope in Cabramatta. I play Sonny, a dreamer, wanting to grow up and spread her wings but at the same time is grappling with her duty to be a good daughter and older sister. 

Had you encountered the novel before you got on board the production? I hadn’t! But as soon as I signed on, I immediately read the book. Vivian has the most beautiful way with words, I’m a little nervous about doing Sonny justice but I trust that everyone will guide me in the right direction. Honestly, it should be part of the school curriculum – it’s a perfect novel. 

How does performing on stage compare to acting for the screen? I love both in different ways! But I think with theatre, I really have to look after my body in a routine way. And it’s sooo nice having a set schedule – like, I know what I’m doing up until Christmas. That never happens. I think with acting for the screen, there’s way more leeway for me to just wing it and cross my fingers but with theatre, I’m learning to apply more discipline in my life haha!  

In what ways do you feel Western Sydney comes alive in the production? The language, the food, the sets, the costumes, the sense of community, and finding joy in suffering. 

What’s been your favourite memory from working on the production so far? It was the first time I got to be on the other end of the audition process – seeing everyone’s completely different takes on each character was particularly eye opening for me. It really solidified the audition process as a vibe check rather than anything else, everyone’s instincts were so different and interesting.

Why is now the perfect time to show this production of The Coconut Children? Holiday cheer. 

Snag yourself some tickets to The Coconut Children this-a-way. For more rad arty chats, feast your eyes on our chinwag with ceramicist Not Core or check out our chat with craft biz FunkyFunYou’s founder. Plus, sign up to our newsletter for more goodness.