Connecting people

His linguistic versatility — switching between American and British English and the Beijing dialect — also reflects their act's broader cultural adaptability.

"When I was little, I spoke American English at school and then switched to British English at home. I spoke the Beijing dialect with the nanny. As the language kept switching, so did my way of thinking," he says.

Sampson says he believes that stand-up, as an imported art form, offers Chinese audiences a rich cultural experience, albeit one that must be tailored to local sensibilities.

The duo's performances often address cultural misunderstandings and humorous anecdotes, easing the tension that might arise from language barriers. Their act not only entertains but also fosters a deeper appreciation of cultural differences, he says.

"Many people don't usually communicate with foreigners in English, so I noticed that when I'm on stage, the audience can somehow feel nervous. We use comedic techniques to release this tension. It works very well," Sampson says.