Ivan Heng

Ivan Heng is a Singaporean actor, director, and cultural leader who is openly gay and one of the most influential LGBTQ+ figures in Southeast Asian theatre. Trained at RADA and known for his electrifying stage presence, Heng founded Wild Rice in 2000 — now one of Singapore’s most important theatre companies — with a mission to champion bold, inclusive, and socially engaged storytelling. His work frequently foregrounds queer themes, gender fluidity, and political critique, including his iconic drag‑inflected performances as Emily of Emerald Hill, which he has reimagined across decades as a celebration of queer artistry and Singaporean identity. Heng has spoken publicly about his sexuality, his long‑term partnership with Wild Rice executive director Tony Trickett, and the importance of visibility in a country where LGBTQ+ rights remain contested. Through his directing, acting, and institution‑building, Heng has become a cornerstone of Singapore’s queer cultural landscape — a trailblazer whose artistry and advocacy have shaped an entire generation of performers and audiences.