Ben Chau-Chiu is a director and actor based in the San Francisco-Bay Area.
As a director, they've worked with PlayGround-SF, where they are a company member, Marin Shakespeare’s Teen Touring Company, Plethos Productions, and U.C. Santa Cruz’s Theater and Opera programs. They’ve independently produced and directed under the group name Teatro de las Tías. They've also assisted for multiple productions at A.C.T., Cal Shakes, and S.F. Playhouse. They are drawn to new works, especially those that cover topics of mental health, race, and love.
As a performer, their credits range from Shakespeare to musicals to new works to opera to solo performance. They’ve been grateful to have worked with many theaters around the Bay Area, such as A.C.T., S.F. Shakes, 42nd Street Moon, Cal Shakes, and Berkeley Rep.
Whether on or off the stage, Ben is determined to promote diverse voices and work in theater, as well as advocate for a kinder and human-first environment.
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Human First, Artist Second
I’ve been using this saying since the beginning of 2025. It describes the basis of my approach towards creating and collaboration. When I say “human first,” I mean that we must focus, acknowledge, and take care of the humans we are in order to create art that is effective and sustainable. While being an artist is important to me and one of my many identities, I feel that the importance of care and kindness for each other far surpasses the importance of any art we may create. So the human must come before the art. And I strive to show this in both my leadership and in my storytelling.