Cathy Lam

Exploring Life Through Film and Theater
Cathy Lam shares how her passion for film and theater has shaped her worldview. She believes that movies offer unique perspectives on life that challenge societal norms and injustices. Through the lens of storytelling, she finds comfort and exploration in worlds that differ from her own experiences. This connection to cinema and theater has not only been an escape but also a means of understanding complex human emotions and societal issues.

Cultural Shock and Community in San Gabriel Valley
Cathy recounts her initial cultural shock upon moving to the San Gabriel Valley from Hong Kong. She highlights how the predominantly Asian community provided a sense of familiarity and belonging that eased her transition. Over time, the SGV transformed from a daunting new environment into a cherished second home where she found community, food, and cultural connections. This evolution reflects her journey of acceptance and love for her new surroundings.

Navigating Parental Expectations and Personal Passion
Cathy’s journey as an artist has been significantly influenced by her traditional Asian upbringing and her parents’ expectations. Initially pushed toward more conventional career paths, she struggled to reconcile her passion for theater with their desire for a stable future. However, with support from her husband and a deeper understanding of her own identity, she chose to pursue her artistic dreams, illustrating the challenges many face when balancing familial expectations with personal aspirations.

The Role of Mentorship in Artistic Growth
Cathy emphasizes the importance of mentorship in her artistic development, particularly during her formative years in theater. A key mentor helped her gain insights into the ethical responsibilities of being a theater maker and the potential for art to address social justice issues. This relationship not only shaped her approach to theater but also instilled a sense of responsibility to use her platform for meaningful dialogue about societal challenges.

Resilience Through Adversity
Cathy’s life story is marked by moments of profound adversity, including a serious health crisis that led to a miraculous recovery. Her experience highlights the strength of her faith and the support she received from her community. Through these challenges, she has emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, reaffirming her commitment to her art and her role as a storyteller in addressing important social issues.

Intersection of Art and Identity
Cathy’s work often explores themes of identity, particularly her experiences as an immigrant navigating different cultures. Her plays reflect her quest to understand her own identity against the backdrop of political and social changes in Hong Kong. By using theater as a medium, she aims to spark conversations about identity and belonging, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own experiences in a multicultural society.

The Healing Power of Art
Cathy believes in the transformative and healing power of art, both for herself and for her audience. Her journey through personal trauma and recovery has reinforced her conviction that storytelling can bring healing and understanding. By creating art that resonates with shared experiences, she hopes to foster connection and empathy among diverse audiences, demonstrating that art can be a powerful catalyst for healing and social change.