In an old strip mall being converted into offices and apartments, the Chinese Canadian Conservative Association gathers for its annual Christmas party. Trays of food are laid out, speeches are given, but all eyes are on the TVs above and mics in the corner of the room. The host announces that no one is leaving without at least one song. Couples dance to Teresa Teng’s Tian Mi Mi, a couple of guests tell the audience if they’re going to San Francisco, be sure to wear flowers in your hair. The biggest cheers of the night come out as turn of the 90s rock outfit Beyond’s Hoi Fut Tin Hung and Hei Fun Nei come on the system. The crowd, now long married with children who’ve grown up, belts out every Oh Yeah and Shoo Be Doo from the anthems of their youth. Hei Fun Nei ends the way one of Elvis’ greatest performances from the last months of his life begins – my love, my darling, I hunger for your touch. A polished baritone voice booms through the room – love me tender, love me long, take me to your...heart. A double take reveals the speakers are only playing the backing track – a 50 to 60-year old suited man with Hong Kong roots gives his vocal tribute to Elvis. The night winds down, the lights dim, a disco ball is brought out, and the couples still left dance in its rays.
--Meng Bao
