An unforgettable matriarch lies at the heart of this State Theatre Company SA production: Pearl Wong, played by Fiona Choi. After migrating to Australia’s Sunshine Coast with her now ex-husband, Pearl opened a Chinese restaurant and had two children: Zoe (Juanita Navas-Nguyen), who’s trying to navigate her career and dating life, and Mei (Elvy-Lee Quici), who’s in the midst of an identity crisis.

Best known for her role in the SBS award-winning comedy The Family Law, Choi portrays a character that audiences can’t help but fall in love with, embodying a mother unconditionally devoted to providing the best life for her daughters. We also see Pearl as a recent divorcee, a single woman re-defining her place in the world – and someone with a secret that could change her family’s life.

The chemistry between members of the Wong family is to be applauded. Every argument, hug, meal and correction of a mispronounced word oozes authenticity, and for many first and second-generation migrants, this reflects the complex expressions of love that play out in diverse family homes. This is testament to both the writing of Michelle Law (whose credits also include the TV shows Rosehaven and Homecoming Queens), and the sensational performances under the direction of Nescha Jelk (Euphoria).

A special mention must also be given to Kristen O’Dwyer, who plays Mei’s best friend, Katie, the ally everyone needs. Her performance is endearing and incredibly funny.

Kristen O’Dwyer, Juanita Navas-Nguyen, Kathryn Adams and Elvy-Lee Quici in Single Asian Female. Photo by Matt Byrne

Single Asian Female demonstrates how Australian and Chinese culture can both collide and exist in harmony. Missy Higgins merchandise is seen in homes where people take off their shoes at the door, and Cantonise pop songs play alongside a karaoke rendition of “I Will Survive”.

This all unfolds on a marvellous set, designed by Ailsa Paterson. The Chinese restaurant, called the Golden Phoenix, takes up the lower level of the stage, and is brought to life with considered details, like a maneki-neko (the welcoming, waving cat on the counter of many Chinese eateries), spirits lined up behind the bar, lanterns hanging from the ceiling, and cartons of soft drinks stacked in the back room.

The space is maximised with a second storey above the restaurant, where there are two bedrooms: one for Zoe and Mei, and one for Pearl. This allows audiences to see family life unfold alongside the business and gives a visual representation of how, for many migrants, hard work and family are tied together.

Single Asian Female is a story of love, family – and karaoke. Photo: Matt Byrne

On a macro level, Law’s powerful and essential piece explores worth and belonging in a country that has built its identity on stolen land. It holds up a mirror to the Australian society that has alienated both its migrants and traditional owners, and reveals how life’s everyday happenings – dating, work, education – are intensified when racism is present.

And, on a micro level, Single Asian Female explores what makes up any family: love.

Single Asian Female is being presented by State Theatre Company SA, in association with OzAsia Festival, at the Dunstan Playhouse until November 19.