The internationally acclaimed stand-up comedian is in Abu Dhabi for the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, which runs until October 25.
World-renowned stand-up comedian Trevor Noah spoke to attendees on the first day of Culture Summit Abu Dhabi about a variety of topics including the nature of culture, identity, success, and the pursuit of passion in a session moderated by Tim Marlow, Chief Executive and Director of The Design Museum and which was open to questions by the audience.
“One thing we have to accept about the world today is the boundaries and barriers about where one’s culture ends and where one begins; culture exists across boundaries and borders and is defined in different ways. And it comes with many challenges; so to define where and when an idea should exist, it is very hard to do that,” Trevor said.
When asked how his identity shaped or impacted his career, Noah described it as a challenge and a gift. “I learned through life that identity can evolve, like here in Abu Dhabi. I love to see it and it forces me to understand the other; it is a constant journey.”
Talking about the responsibilities of an artist and specifically for him as a comedian, The Daily Show host shared how he’s allowed himself to grow through comedy from when he first started out. “Over time as I grew more and expanded how I see the world, I hope my comedy has evolved the same way. People shouldn’t be the same at each age, we should expect them to change and I reflect that on myself; I want to look at myself and see my old ideas and not recognize them anymore.”
Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, which runs until October 25, is organized by DCT Abu Dhabi in collaboration with global partner organizations bringing expertise in diverse fields, from culture and arts to media and technology. Partners include UNESCO, Economist Impact, Google, the Design Museum, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, and the Recording Academy. Other participating partners include Image Nation Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Film Commission, Sandstorm Comics, Cultural Foundation, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi, Culture Resource, Arab Fund for Arts & Culture, and the Institut Français.