Sheng Wang is a standup comedian, writer and actor known for his laid-back style and sharp, observational humor. Born in Taipei and raised in Houston, Texas, he began his comedy career performing standup in San Francisco and New York City. From 2015 to 2018, Wang worked as a staff writer, executive story editor and actor for the hit show “Fresh Off The Boat.” In September 2022, he released a Netflix special titled “Sweet and Juicy,” which finds humor in everyday, relatable experiences. Since then, he has gained popularity, performing on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” and “John Oliver’s New York Stand Up.” The Dartmouth sat down with him before his upcoming tour, which he hopes to publish as another Netflix special. Wang will be performing on tour in Hampton, N.H. on May 16.
We’re catching you in the middle of a tour that will last more than two years. What inspired the tour and how are you feeling around the halfway point?
SW: This is my first tour since the release of “Sweet and Juicy” and the biggest tour of my career so far. I knew things would be different after my Netflix premiere, but I wasn’t sure just how much the needle had moved. It has been incredible to see how many people resonated with the special and wanted to come out and watch my new live show on this tour. Despite the fatigue of travel, I’m feeling absolutely grateful for the opportunities to do these shows for all the fans, old and new.
In “Sweet & Juicy” you cover topics like healthy eating and exercising. What does your routine look like now when you’re on the road, and what do you like to do when you visit a new city?
SW: The new routine features all new material, but has a similar approach and vibe to “Sweet and Juicy.” There’s an underlying tone of kindness and joy, with a focus on simple life experiences and mundane moments. When I visit a new city, I like to do a lot of walking around the town and visiting the local botanical garden or cemetery to be with local flora.
Can you take us back to the first time you did stand-up? What drew you to performing in front of a live audience?
SW: My first attempt at standup comedy was during a talent showcase in college. The material was terrible, but the experience of connecting with a live crowd felt exhilarating and grounding at the same time. I loved those moments of doing a show, but soon realized that the greatest satisfaction came from writing a new joke or making an existing one better. The thrill of creating is ultimately what keeps me coming back to stand up.
Most artists spend their early days trying to find their “voice.” What was that process like for you?
SW: I believe I’m still trying to find my voice, to be my freest self. It may very well be a constant evolution as I grow and learn with age. I think when you write your first few original jokes that actually get laughs, you get a sense that it’s possible, that you can be great if you keep creating new bits and keep yourself to a high standard, to keep honing, tinkering and editing to find the strongest version of your ideas.
You’ve mentioned that your comedy is driven by a combination of “wonder, exploration — and maybe hope.” You stay pretty positive, but how do current events impact how you view your work and its quality?
SW: Current events generally seem pretty grim. I don’t usually discuss those things or my feelings about them directly, but it motivates me to try to do my best to really make a lasting impression on people who come out to enjoy a comedy show. My hope is to have people leave the show and go on with their lives with more appreciation for little moments in everyday life that can suddenly be imbued with more meaning.
Many underrepresented artists can appreciate the predicament: You want to do a good job and make something you’re really proud of, and you’re also wrestling with the burden of representation. When you started on “Fresh Off The Boat,” what was going through your head and how did you approach the creative process?
SW: Honestly, that was my first writing job for a major T.V. network on a big sitcom, and I just wanted to not mess up! By the time I joined the writer’s room, it was the second season, so the show had already gotten past that initial worry of whether or not it was going to be a funny and successful show. I just tried to learn as much as possible and contribute however I could, however small.
What upcoming projects are you most excited about?
SW: I’m just excited to continue touring and developing the new tour in preparation to eventually tape it for my next Netflix special.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
