Q: What made you join Han Lin Children’s Shuochang Group?

A: I want to improve my Mandarin and general language capabilities. I want to be able to speak more fluently.

Q: What’s your favorite type of shuochang?

A: My favorite type of shuochang is cross talks because it is filled with jokes, and it makes people laugh.

Q: What is the most interesting part of you lesson?

A: I think cross talks duo and group cross talks are both very interesting. They are both funny, and they show the versatility of cross talks.

Q: Did you come across any difficulties while learning shuochang? How did you solve it?

A: When I first started learning clapper, it did not go too well. However, after getting more and more practices, I slowly got the hang of it, and then I would work on some special techniques for clappers.

Q: How do you prepare yourself before going on stage? Can you share with us?

A: I usually review the script page by page and go threw the facial expressions that I need to have for the performance.

Q: Did you come across any difficulties while practicing? How did you solve it?

A: Not really. I believe as long as I work hard, I can solve all the problems.

Q: Did you start off with three-piece or seven-piece clapper?

A: I started off with three-piece clapper, and then seven-piece clapper followed. When I practice, I would look at the techniques demonstrated by the teacher and then practice on my own.

Q: When you are performing on stage, what are some things to watch out for?

A: We need to articulate clearly and maintain eye contact with the audience. We also need to memorize all the moves and get all the props ready before the show.

Q: Have you ever felt nervous or scared before going on stage? How did you overcome it?

A: That’s for sure. I would take a deep breath before the show or chat with other team members to divert my attention.

Q: After gaining performing experiences, did you feel differently about shuochang? (Like more about shuochang? Like more about performing?)

A: I learned cross talks while learning the art of shuochang. It made me feel alive and happy.

Q: Would you want to continue learning shuochang?

A: Yes, I would. I would want to continue learning shuochang to improve my Mandarin and make people laugh.

Q: Will you go more in depth into any specific form of shuochang? How will you do it?

A: I would want to learn more about cross talks monologue because it is performed without a partner. I will go and watch others perform to see if there are any techniques to learn.