He takes part in a poetry contest in Hangzhou in December 2021. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Looking abroad

Al Rudaisat's unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have not only propelled him to master the Chinese language but also opened doors to a profound exploration of Chinese culture through traditional Chinese cross-talk, his mentors and friends say.

A popular comedian representing his comedy club and nation in his life, interviews and documentaries, the remarkable journey is a testament to the power of his perseverance in overcoming language barriers and fostering cross-cultural understanding, they say.

"You will not understand a culture just by reading history books or watching movies about it. It will help if you have a context and a bunch of people around you to learn from and experience the culture, in order to appreciate and comprehend it fully," he says, adding that he is planning a trip back home, after pandemic travel restrictions have separated him and his family in Jordan for almost four years.

But he will certainly continue his cross-talk career, he says.

"I would love to keep performing in Jordan or China; I would also love to introduce xiangsheng to more Jordanians and Arabs, for them to learn xiangsheng and its theatrical, artistic aspects," Al Rudaisat says.

"He is going to make it happen, I am sure," Bo says.

There are a greater number of opportunities for China to promote healthier and deeper cultural exchanges with Arab nations, he says, and as China's economic development and technological prowess continue to have positive global impact, international ties, including those with Arab nations, will undoubtedly grow.

"I truly hope that with my efforts, more foreigners will be inspired and get to know Chinese culture through xiangsheng and use it as an interesting, humorous tool to uncover, research and fall in love with Chinese culture," Al Rudaisat says.

Chang Aohan and Luo Yilin contributed to this story.