Phil Wang: Sidesplitter

Phil Wang, one of the UK’s most exciting stand-up comics, comes to the Wheeler Centre to discuss his new book Sidesplitter: How To Be From Two Worlds At Once.

‘But where are you REALLY from?’ is a question Wang has heard just a few too many times. In Sidesplitter, he uses this as a jumping-off point to reflect on his experiences as a British-Malaysian man, and his life spent half in Asia and half in the UK. Having made countless appearances on programs such as Would I Lie to You?, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Drunk History and The Great British Bake Off: Extra Slice, as well as releasing his Netflix special Philly Philly Wang Wang in 2021, Sidesplitter offers a sophisticated and intimate companion to his more unrestrained style of stand-up comedy. Using a graceful and insightful blend of memoir and essay, Wang delves into what it means to be mixed race, and explores the contrasts between Britain and Malaysia’s histories and culture, bringing his trademark cynicism and wit to topics ranging from family, food, and comedy to race, empire and colonialism.

Wang will join writer and comedian Jennifer Wong for this behind-the-scenes conversation about his life and influences as a comic. 

Presented in partnership with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival

The bookseller for this event is Readings