These days my main focus is on solo performances, usually either as a 10-15 minute guest appearance or in the format of a 60-minute one-man show. I put all of this under the label of Dashan Live.
In general terms, I work as an entertainer and presenter. "Cultural ambassador" is a vague kind of label that gets tossed around. I've been working between China and the West for over 30 years now and almost all on a freelance basis, so it's been a very eclectic career. The categories below give a general summary.
Whatever I do (and I'm always open to new ideas) I take a Chinese-first approach. As a native English speaker born and raised in the West, working in my second language and outside of my own cultural environment has always seemed the best way to truly bridge cultures.
In recent years I've focused on developing a live show that I've toured across China and to Chinese communities around the world.
If you're interested in working with "Dashan" for something along these lines, or if you have an even better idea, send me a note.
I first made my name performing xiangsheng and comedic skits on national TV in China, before spending the middle part of my career diversifying into non-comedic work. Of everything I've done, comedy is by far the most difficult and most rewarding, and so I've come full circle in recent years but with a new twist, through my solo show Dashan Live.
Working as a television host & presenter was my bread & butter work for many years, especially for programs and events that require an English / Mandarin bilingual host. I try to bring an engaging and entertaining style to my work as MC, but prefer to keep this distinct from comedic performing for the simple reason that appearing as MC detracts from the focus required for comedy. I do one or the other, not both for the same event.
To share my story and insights gained from 30 years living and working as a Westerner in Chinese media & entertainment.
I've performed in television dramas and theatrical productions, winning a White Magnolia award for best supporting actor some years back. It has to be the right role (and typecasting for Caucasians in China is as bad as for Asian actors in Hollywood) but I'm open to new opportunities when the stars align.
I love this work and have done Chinese narration for pieces like "Carnival of the Animals" with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and "Peter and the Wolf" with the New York Philharmonic. I also narrate children's plays by Mermaid Theatre.
My work as a television host led me to host many educational programs over the years, both to teach English and Chinese. That was more of an old school, traditional media approach. Haven't done this for a while now.
I've done advertising and promotional events for corporate clients and charitable causes, and I still get a lot of requests for this type of work. Fair warning -- I turn down most requests because I'm looking for long-term clients that are a good fit with my public image and other work. I'm not a KOL for hire per post.
Perhaps the best way to work together is in partnership as a sponsor of my one-man show Dashan Live. If that sounds interesting, let's talk.
