A Chinese stand-up comedian, whose act was banned in Beijing, has found a new stage in London, performing to packed audiences of Chinese diaspora. The shows, held in a north London venue, have become a symbol of free speech for many who feel their voices are curtailed at home.
Li Wei, a 32-year-old from Shanghai, was forced to leave China after his routines mocking local officials and state media drew the ire of censors. His act, a mix of sharp political satire and everyday observations, was performed three times last week to crowds of over 200 each night. Tickets were bought up within hours.
“I was told my material was not suitable. But here, I can say what I think. It feels like breathing again,” Li said backstage after a show. His jokes tackle everything from the cost of housing in Beijing to the overbearing presence of surveillance cameras. The audience, mostly young professionals from the Chinese community in the UK, roared with laughter at references that would be considered taboo in China.
But Li’s success raises questions about the limits of free expression in a globalised world. Chinese authorities have in the past pressured overseas venues to cancel shows by dissident artists. The UK government, however, has made no move to restrict his performances.
“We are a hub for free speech,” said Mark Foster, a London-based human rights lawyer. “But this could test our commitment. The Chinese embassy often objects to such events, and we must be careful not to let diplomacy silence artists.”
The Chinese embassy in London declined to comment. But state media has previously described Li as a “troublemaker” spreading “fake news”.
Audience member Zhang Min, a 28-year-old student from Beijing, said the show was a revelation. “We grew up with propaganda. To hear someone say these things openly is shocking and liberating. I wish my friends in China could see this.”
Li plans to tour other UK cities, including Manchester and Birmingham, where large Chinese communities exist. He hopes his shows will help build a bridge between the experience of life in China and the values of Western democracies.
But the risks remain. Li’s family back in Shanghai have been questioned by police. “I worry about them every day,” he said. “But if I stop, the censors win. This is my small rebellion.”
