Duo views laughter as the best medicine

Sampson resides in a traditional Beijing siheyuan courtyard home surrounded by buildings on all four sides. Eastern and Western design elements converge, mirroring the cross-cultural appeal of Shufu Duo's performances. The unique setting has become a creative sanctuary for the partners to hone their act.

Their resonance with audiences also reflects how stand-up comedy incorporating Western elements is carving out a niche in the country's entertainment scene.

"Unlike traditional comedy, stand-up involves direct engagement with the audience, creating a dynamic and often unpredictable comedic effect," Li says, noting that the interaction is a key feature distinguishing stand-up from Chinese xiangsheng.

"While both forms depict everyday life with humor and satire, xiangsheng follows a more structured and generational approach, whereas stand-up thrives on spontaneity and contemporary relevance."

The evolution of stand-up comedy in China can be traced back to the 1970s and 1980s. It gained early traction in Hong Kong with performers like Wong Tze Wah. By 1990, Wong's stand-up routines, known for their sharp social commentary, resonated with audiences and paved the way for the genre's expansion into the Chinese mainland.