Chizi's Return to Stand-Up Comedy
Chizi, a well-known Chinese stand-up comedian, has embarked on an international tour, performing for Chinese-speaking communities in cities like Tokyo, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. This move follows a ban on his performances within China, which he discovered in February 2023 after a series of shows abroad that touched upon politically sensitive topics.
During a recent performance at the National University of Singapore, Chizi opened with a joke referencing the extended leadership of President Xi Jinping, a subject rarely broached by comedians in China. The audience, largely composed of Singaporean Chinese and Chinese expatriates, responded with enthusiasm.
Navigating Restrictions and Finding Freedom
Chizi, whose real name is Wang Yuechi, stated that his decision to perform outside China was driven by a desire to connect with Chinese speakers and share his perspectives as someone who lived in China for three decades. He acknowledged the risks associated with his content, particularly his decision to perform in Taiwan, an island claimed by Beijing.
Despite his ban, Chizi expressed that he intentionally limited overtly political humor in his current tour. For instance, when referencing President Xi, he avoided using his name, instead calling him “Peng Liyuan’s husband,” referring to Xi’s wife, a famous singer. His previous North American performances, which led to the ban, included jokes about censorship, rising nationalism, and the diminishing rights of ethnic minority groups in China.
“If something feels risky or dangerous, I find it interesting.”
Chizi revealed that his initial reaction to the ban was a sense of relief, as it allowed him to express his genuine thoughts and feelings, which he had been unable to do within China's increasingly confined comedy scene. He maintains a folder titled “Things I can’t say” containing jokes that were censored or deemed inappropriate for performances in China.
From Rising Star to International Performer
Chizi began his stand-up career in 2015, quickly rising to prominence after appearing on a popular Chinese talk show. He became a regular, known for his improvisational skills and sharp wit, often incorporating current events into his routines. However, he grew frustrated with the limitations imposed by censorship and the hostile social media environment, eventually taking a hiatus in late 2021.
During China's extensive lockdowns, Chizi experienced the limitations of his influence firsthand when his attempts to repost requests for essential supplies were often deleted by censors. This reinforced his decision to step back and re-evaluate his path.
Now, Chizi plans to expand his tour to Australia, New Zealand, and North America. He describes the unique connection he feels with his audience during live performances, likening it to making 500 friends simultaneously through mutual understanding.
Source: Original Article
