Name: Yulanda Yo-Rong Shieh
Hometown: Taipei, Taiwan
Education: B.A. National Taiwan University - Drama and Theatre; M.F.A. NYU Tisch School of the Arts - Design for Stage and Film
Favorite Credits: The Late Wedding (Directed by Giselle Ty), Pinky Club (Directed by Allison Emma Wang), A Streetcar Named Desire (Directed by Lou-Ying Wu), Journey to the West II (Directed by Tsui Hark)
Why theater?: Because it’s so real and unreal at the same time. You always find fantasy in reality and reality in fantasy. And that it reveals to you a part of yourself you weren’t aware of before. It allows us to find connections with one another in a metaphoric way.
What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I’m drawn to the stories that show how two extremes co-exist. I’m touched whenever the creators genuinely put all of themselves in the work, when it happens the subsequent healing effect is enormous. I’m inspired by everyone and everything around me. As an artist, I’m dedicated to find beauty in everything. In mundane routines, in tragic events, in all the unexpected circumstances. And of course, beauty does not mean good-looking, it’s an attitude, a way of living. It’s something that touches you and makes you feel alive.
How have you stayed creatively active during COVID?: I doodled, read, and designed some short films.
If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Ang Lee!
What show have you recommended to your friends?: The End Of The Fxxxing World
Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Lun-Mei Gui, "Midnight Rhapsody"
If you could go back in time and see any play or musical you missed, what would it be?: the curious incident of the dog in the nighttime
What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Listening to random playlists on Spotify
If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: A musician I hope!
What’s up next?: I’m currently on a TV Show!
For more on Yulanda, visit www.yulandayorongshieh.com
