Lucas Yufeng WU (he/him)

Lucas Y.F. Wu is a first-year PhD student in Drama at the University of Exeter. His research examines the interplay between intercultural theatre, traditional Chinese performance practices, and contemporary musical theatre. He investigates how these art forms navigate cultural hybridity and globalisation, with a particular focus on reimagining cultural heritage in global performance contexts, balancing the preservation of artistic traditions with innovative adaptation for modern audiences.

Before joining Exeter, Lucas completed an MA in Traditional Chinese Opera and Drama Studies at Shanghai University (China), where he graduated with distinction and was recognised for his exceptional research contributions. His academic background is further enriched by a period at Université de Picardie Jules Verne in France, where he focused on studying tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

In 2020, Lucas founded PlayArts China, working with local bookstores and kindergartens to adapt cherished picture book stories into engaging stage performances for children. He also brings professional experience from Shanghai Culture Square, where he contributed to introducing top-rated international musicals to Chinese audiences while supporting local theatre practitioners in developing contemporary Chinese musicals.

Lucas’ doctoral research is supported by the China Scholarship Council and the University of Exeter.