In this series, we ask Imagination talent all about the experiences that have made them who they are. This month we spoke to Yijun Wu, Junior Production Manager from our Shanghai studio.
A bit about me…
I’ve been jumping between live production and the language industry. I’m often told how different my past experiences are from where I am now, but to me, they all share a common ground, as they are ultimately a celebration of culture. Whether it’s an exhibition space, a solo on a stage, or a webpage in multiple languages, people are sharing a piece of their inspiration and I am always honoured to help bring it to the world.
And when I’m not pouring days and nights into the next big production, I defy gravity!
The creative experience that has influenced me the most…
I was first deeply moved by the immersive theatre production Sleep No More in Shanghai. It tells emotional and often heartbreaking stories through contemporary dance, unfolding across an entire building and engaging all senses to create a transportive experience.
It didn’t take long for me to realise that a few visits as an audience member were not enough, so I quite literally knocked on their door to see if I could be part of the team. I was fortunate to be welcomed by a group of like-minded theatre enthusiasts, and that marked the beginning of two unforgettable years working on the show, supporting daily operations, annual cast renewals, and the production of many special events.
Looking back, that was where my journey in live production began, and a turning point I will never regret.
My industry hero is…
Anaïs Mitchell, creator of the phenomenal Tony Award-winning musical Hadestown. Making the show entirely sung-through is impressive on its own, and when paired with thoughtful integration of lighting, set, a dream cast, particularly the brilliant use of a rotating stage, it became an emotional journey of joy, heartbreak and hope when I first saw it on Broadway.
What was even more inspiring came afterwards, when I discovered that Anaïs is also an alum of my graduate school. Despite coming from very different backgrounds, this shared connection made me feel instantly closer to a far-reaching dream, and has since been a reminder that there is always a path to bridge any gap. Hadestown became a must-visit every time I’m in New York, a constant source of inspiration and a confidence booster.
The piece of work I’m most proud of…
The Ford stand we’ve just delivered at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. We brought the Ford adventure park to Beijing for the first time, recreating off-road features with the most authentic, rugged feeling possible within an indoor exhibition space, while integrating even more brand highlights.
I’m actually still standing on site as I write this, with everything still real and happening around me. Being present makes the pride feel even more immediate. As I look around, the sleepless nights and challenges are still fresh, but what stands out more is the unconditional support and collective effort across the team. This was also my first time leading the production of an auto show stand, which makes it especially meaningful and something I will always hold close to my heart.
The piece of work that makes me cringe…
Mostly back in my interpreting days, those classic “staircase wit” moments where you only think of the perfect phrasing after it’s too late. While I still deal with high-pressure moments now, especially on site, it’s far better compared to being put on the spot in front of a live audience, searching for the right words in real time, something I do not miss.
The experience I wish I had created…
Any Punchdrunk production from scratch. Even though I was lucky to have worked with the team on Sleep No More and saw how the sausage gets made, I am still mesmerised by the scale and complexity of creating a site-specific immersive performance. I can easily imagine tons of sleepless nights and brain-draining moments, but I’m sure nothing compares to the sense of accomplishment that comes from bringing something like that to life.
Advice to my 18-year-old self…
All in good time.
What’s next?
I’m wrapping up one of the biggest auto shows of the year in Beijing and getting ready to head to Dali in southwest China, into the mountains and greenery. We’ll be putting together a technical seminar for Vale, aiming to create a great experience for our client and a bit of a celebration for the team as well!
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