Q&A with Lam Man Yik

It can be lonely, but also warm, challenging and fulfilling. We came here alone, leaving behind everything familiar, our homes and countries. Facing all kinds of unfamiliar things, new languages, and completely different cultures and people has given me a strong sense of loneliness. At the same time, the school provided enough space and a sense of security and support. Even though the training is challenging, we go through constant failures, learning, and successes together here. We grow independently, and we accompany and support each other at the same time. I realized that through being in an unfamiliar environment, I was able to understand who I am when I shed my previous identities.

Share something you’ve learned from working with your classmates from various countries.

Sometimes, it's not about a binary opposition of right and wrong. It could be, for example, I’m not wrong, and neither are you. In the past, I thought this was just a way of smoothing things over, but now I feel it might actually be true. Working with classmates from different cultures can easily lead to conflict. Sometimes, we don’t know each other’s boundaries due to cultural differences, but often it's just a matter of clearly expressing those boundaries and communicating well. At the same time, it’s important to recognise that different life experiences between people can lead to different understandings and choices.

Think back to your first day here: what were some of your thoughts and emotions then?

I remember on the first day, we sat in a circle and introduced ourselves. I felt very excited because, finally, I had made a choice for myself—to come here to study. I remember during the self-introduction, I was asked why I came here to study. My answer at that time was to explore myself and get to know who I really am. Even to this day, to the part of me who is eager to succeed, I constantly remind myself: please do it for yourself.

Tell us how you came to know about ITI. What made you choose to come here?

From 2016 to 2021, I participated in 'The Vibrated Self', an acting training programme hosted by Andy Ng Wai-shek, in Hong Kong. He graduated from ITI (TTRP) and now teaches acting in ITI. In training, he often shared the knowledge and experiences he gained from ITI. I was really curious about what it was all about—I wanted to know so badly! And that’s why I came here!

What's one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had at ITI?

The most memorable memory... it’s hard... I probably can’t choose just one to share with you! There are too many precious memories, all filled with sweat and tears. So many changes and first experiences happened at this school, especially learning traditional forms, where there was constant failure, but also the most change and growth. And AIC (Asian Intercultural Conference)! I met so many interesting and beautiful souls.

What has it been like learning from and working with the teachers at ITI?

I think the teachers at ITI are incredibly valuable. Each of them has their own strengths, and they are so eager to teach. It’s as if they want to give you everything they know within the three years we have. They teach and care for me with such selflessness, and I really cherish them for that.

At the beginning of my studies, I sometimes felt like each teacher's feedback seemed different, but later I realised that I could find a way to connect their advice. What they were saying might have been the same thing, just from different perspectives. In the end, most of the time, they were aiming for the same destination.

How has what you’ve learnt here shaped or changed you as an actor?

For me, ITI's training offers many different aspects, such as voice, text analysis, movement, and humanities etc. Through these various types of training and practice, it has helped me develop a habit of focusing on the present, constantly being aware of what is happening. This allows my body to respond organically. As an actor, I can be aware of what my body is doing and how to use it to express and create.

Describe your biggest takeaway from the ITI experience.

Always stay open. Keep trying and seeking change! Accept that your state will be different every day, but give 100% of yourself on that day.

What are your plans after graduation?

I hope to continue creating! I wish to return to Hong Kong to perform my FYiP. I’m planning to further develop the story and make it more complete!

What would you say to a new student or someone thinking of joining ITI?

Be prepared, you are about to go through changes. Along the way, there may be a lot of doubts, a lot of pain, and many conflicts. But as long as you remember the reason why you came here, in the end, you will realize that the time you’ve experienced is all shining brightly.

Any special thanks or parting words?

Thank you to all my teachers, especially Wan Ching, Andy, Simon, and Chin Huat. Thank you to the people in the office! Thank you to the Tan Chay Bing Education Fund for your support with the scholarship.

Profile photo and And the Cats Dance by the Light production shot by Bernie Ng