Meet Yibin Wang | Theater and Performance Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yibin Wang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yibin, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
I’m a theater maker and director, and in my opinion, our industry operates with a strong emphasis on honesty. While I understand that the term “industry” may spark some debate, I genuinely believe in the inherent value of what we do. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned through my experience in theater is the absolute necessity of honesty. Whether it’s during rehearsals or in conversations with collaborators from other disciplines, if we don’t delve deeply into a genuine level of honesty, our work will fail to resonate with our hearts and, consequently, won’t connect strongly with the audience. During my directing training, my teacher often posed the question, “What is it really?” It’s a question we must ask ourselves, and I think we just need to listen and express yourself really. You just simply can’t fake it. And after this process, I believe that we can also set up a clear boundary for us to move forward more smoothly.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a theater artist, I strongly believe that theater has the power to delve into the inner workings of the social system and explore how we, as human beings, can coexist. As a result, I am deeply fascinated by various forms of theater, such as online theater, interactive/immersive performances, theater without actors, and the integration of new technologies on stage.

In some ways, I do research with the warmth of humanity in the theater. Typically, I begin by posing a question that guides the creative process. For instance, during my undergraduate studies, I brought together a group of international students and posed the question, “How have we changed since coming to this country?” Based on our collective experiences of living abroad and encountering different cultures, we collaborated to create a documentary theater piece. The raw authenticity of non-actors and the genuine stories that reflect our present society never cease to leave an impression on me. I am particularly intrigued by the “banality of life” and its portrayal on stage, as well as the significance it holds.

Furthermore, as someone with a multicultural background who has experienced theater and performances across various countries, I constantly strive to push the boundaries of theater and challenge its definitions in different cultural contexts. I once developed an original production called “The Family,” which explored contemporary family dynamics in China. This production was presented both in the United States and my hometown, Hangzhou. The audience feedback I received from different cultures provided invaluable insights. Currently, I just finished a project that explores the presentation of a Traditional Opera from my hometown, Yue Opera, through my personal lens as a diaspora Chinese in the States.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Ever since I acquired my bike last September, I’ve been cycling more frequently. It grants me the freedom to explore NYC at my own pace, and the best part is that I no longer feel confined by train schedules. For recommendation, I highly suggest riding along the bike path by Riverside Drive. Not only can you revel in the splendid view of the Hudson River, but you’ll also soak in the laid-back atmosphere of people enjoying themselves on the benches.

One of my absolute favorite areas in the city is Manhattan Chinatown. Apart from the diverse range of restaurants, I love taking a reusable bag and heading to Deluxe Meat Market. There, I can peruse the freshest and most authentic cooked dishes and ingredients, creating a cozy and comforting feeling. The vibrant colors within the market never fail to fill me with joy and a sense of cultural richness. Additionally, seeking recommendations from the friendly aunties and uncles is always a wise move.

Lastly, I would highly recommend a visit to the Rubin Museum, which specifically focuses on Himalayan Buddhist art. It offers an interactive space for meditation and contemplation, immersing visitors in the wisdom of ancient traditions. I could easily spend an entire afternoon there. Moreover, the museum acknowledges its location within the Western sphere and actively works towards fostering mutual dialogue and understanding, which deeply resonates with me.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a huge shoutout to my family, who despite their concerns, have shown unwavering support for me and created an environment where I can freely explore my passion and find my own path. Being a Chinese kid from a family that has faced numerous challenges but has yet to step out of their comfort zone, I recognize the privilege I have been afforded. I also want to extend a heartfelt shoutout to my high school teachers, Lucy and Gu. They treated me as an equal, which empowered me to view myself as a responsible adult. Additionally, I am immensely grateful to my mentors and teachers since coming to the U.S., including Gideon, Jonathan, Chiori, Anne, Brian, Peter… I have learned so much from them. My closest friends, Yan, Vivian, Ricky, Shuang, Yido, Guang, have played a vital role in shaping the person I am today. And finally, a big thank you to my partner, Star. Through her, I have gained a deeper understanding of myself.

Website: https://yibinwang.weebly.com/

Instagram: yibinbillwang

Image Credits
1: Zhang Xiao 2. Yejia Sun 3. Yuexing Sun 4. Yejia Sun 5. Tayler Everts