Born in Hong Kong, China, James Yan graduated from the Oslo National Academy of the Arts and joined Hong Kong Ballet as an Apprentice in 2023 and became a Corps de Ballet member in 2024. He was a Prix de Lausanne finalist in 2020 and 2023, and his notable accolades include a gold medal at the 2022 Berlin TanzOlym and first place at the 2022 Youth Grand Prix Riccione semi-final.

With HKB he has performed in Vladimir Malakhov's La Bayadère, Septime Webre’s The Great Gatsby and Yuri Possokhov’s Swan Lake.

Dancer Q&A
1.Why do you dance?
Dancing is the only thing that makes my life more colourful.

2.What does ballet mean to you?
Ballet is my life. It allows me new discoveries every day with its ups and downs and motivates me to look forward to a brand new day.

3.What’s the most challenging ballet you have danced and what made it so challenging?
My most challenging role was the Golden Idol in La Bayadère. This was the first classical ballet I performed after I joined Hong Kong Ballet. I was lucky to be selected by Victor Malakhov to perform this role. It was a valuable opportunity which made me stressed.

4.How do you unwind after a show?
I pack my belongings slowly to calm myself. Then I rest on the sofa after I am home.

5.What is the Attribute you most like about yourself?
Perseverance

6.What keeps you motivated on tough days?
Willpower keeps me motivated during hard times. Delicious food and games are also important.

7.What is the Place where you feel most yourself?
A quiet place allows me to feel like myself.

8.Where is the most interesting place you have ever visited or want to visit?
 I am looking forward to my next Japan trip.

9. If you can have a super power, what would it be?
 Teleportation, so I can save a lot of travel time.

10.Who is your favorite dancer who has inspired you?
 Mikhail Baryshnikov