Hong Kong-born, multidisciplinary artist Roshelle Fong, who is based in Naarm/Melbourne, Australia has been announced as the winner of the International Award.

Chosen from a shortlist of five plays submitted via partners in Australia, Canada and the US, The Red Lead 红铅 is a portrait of sisterhood, survival and an attempt to rise up in 1542 Ming Dynasty China.

The Red Lead 红铅 by Roshelle Fong (Australia)

Hong Kong born multi-disciplinary artist Roshelle Fong wrote, directed and produced the Melbourne Fringe award-winning immersive show ‘nomnomnom’ in 2018, and is currently completing a Master of Theatre (Writing) at University of Melbourne’s Victoria College of the Arts. The Red Lead 红铅 is set in 1542 Ming Dynasty China, painting an anachronistic portrait of sisterhood, survival and an attempt to rise up.

The judges said: “At once epic and intimate, this entertaining play immerses us in 16th century China palace intrigue. Bold and surprising in its visual imagery and with a sharp, contemporary voice the story slices through layers of sexual politics and class, upending preconceived notions on a massive scale without ever losing sight of the young women at the centre, their humanity and bravery in the face of systemic oppression, and the hope that comes through collective action.”