“Yellow Face” is a play written by David Henry Hwang, first performed in 2007. It is a satirical comedy-drama that explores themes of racial identity, cultural assimilation, and the complexities of Asian-American representation in popular culture and media.
In “Yellow Face,” Hwang uses humor and wit to address issues of racial stereotypes and the challenges faced by Asian-American actors in Hollywood. The play blurs the lines between reality and fiction, as the protagonist, also named David Henry Hwang, grapples with his own identity and the pressures of representing his community in the entertainment industry.
The title “Yellow Face” refers to the racial slur used to describe people of Asian descent, as well as the practice of casting non-Asian actors in Asian roles in film and theater. Through its sharp dialogue and clever storytelling, the play challenges stereotypes and raises questions about authenticity, representation, and the power of storytelling.
Overall, “Yellow Face” is a thought-provoking and engaging work that confronts issues of race and identity with humor and insight, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own assumptions and prejudices.
