[Watch] Li Cunxin: The Lucky Son

Watch acclaimed ballet dancer and cultural leader Li Cunxin as he lifts the curtain on his much-anticipated second memoir, The Lucky Son, with host Tim Byrne.

Born into a poor rural family in the People’s Republic of China, Li Cunxin grew up under Mao Zedong’s rule during the formation of the new communist nation. His extraordinary talent saw him selected to train at the Beijing Dance Academy before he was chosen to study at the Houston Ballet. After defecting to the United States, Li moved to Australia in 1995.

His memoir, Mao’s Last Dancer, was published in 2003 to critical acclaim and later adapted into the celebrated 2009 film, introducing audiences around the world to his remarkable journey. In his second memoir, The Lucky Son, Li reflects on the next chapter of his life – from his illustrious career in Australia to the challenges and opportunities of migration, family and belonging.

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Originally presented on Tuesday 20 October 2026 by The Wheeler Centre.