“Same on the outside, different on the inside” encapsulates Barton Williams’s raw and poignant narrative as a Vietnam adoptee during the Second Indochina War. Williams candidly shares his feelings of displacement while growing up in Adelaide, Australia. Although he acknowledges the love of his adoptive parents, he felt a distinct preference for his older brother from his father, who dismissed it as “just a father-son thing.”
Williams interweaves his personal story with accounts from adoptees worldwide, whose experiences echo his own. These narratives are frank, powerful, and deeply emotive, adding a global perspective to the adoption experience. The authenticity of these shared stories enhances the emotional impact, making the audience keenly aware of the complexities involved.
A pivotal moment in Williams’s journey occurs during an acting job on the Isle of Lewis, where he meets someone who shares his background but was raised in a different part of the world. This encounter leads him to revisit Vietnam, exploring his roots and delving into his new friend Andy’s story.
While certain sections could benefit from brevity, the compelling subject matter and Williams’s heartfelt delivery captivate the audience, drawing them into a nuanced exploration of identity and belonging. The passion and artistry of Williams’s narrative shine through, leaving a lasting impression.
(4 Stars)
By Melissa Findlay
Precious Cargo, 15:10, Summerhall – Demonstration Room, Aug 6-11, 13-18, 20-26
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on#q=%22Precious%20Cargo%22
