BENNY YAU 邱穟恆
Benny was born in Hong Kong and moved to Vancouver, Canada at a young age. He graduated from Eric Hamber Secondary in 1998 with the Top Music Department Graduate Award and subsequently studied classical voice at Vancouver Community College, completing his studies in 2001.
In 2000, Benny entered "The New Talent Singing Awards" in Vanciuver and was garnered first runner-up. Event organizer Fairchild Television quickly signed Benny to host the weekly infotainment program, What’s On, jump- starting his television career.
While with Fairchild Television, Benny has had multiple opportunities hosting and performing at live events, gaining him national exposure in the Chinese Canadian community. These events include BC Children’s Hospital Miracle Weekend Telethon, Miss Chinese (Vancouver) Pageant, Hong Kong TVB Fans Party and may more.
Over the years, Benny has become quite well-
known to Chinese Canadians for his wit, comedic timing, charisma, and vocal talents. Benny left Fairchild Television in late 2009 and has since kept busy by hosting events for high profile clients such as the Canadian Cancer Society at the Universe of Hope Diversity Gala, and RiverRock Casino for their Chinese New Year VIP Event.
In May 2011, Benny had the rare opportunity of becoming the first ever Chinese-language host of The Price is Right – Live! at a special bilingual engagement, co-hosting with Joey Fatone of *NSync and working with FremantleMedia.
Since 2015, Benny has been the lead singer in the 6-piece dance band The WestCoast Players. The band had quickly proven to be a rising star in the casino circuit within 3 months of performing, having landed the coveted Thursday night Supper Club at Starlight Casino.
Benny is currently a Cruise Director for Princess Cruises, entertaining thousands of guests on a nightly basis as MC, game show host and singer, filling the role as the “face and voice of the ship”. Starting as Chinese Entertainment Host in 2016, Benny quickly moved up the ranks. Within 6 months, he became the first Deputy Cruise Director of Chinese descent in the history of the company. Through hard work and
dedication, he was promoted to Cruise Director in 2017. Benny specializes in the Taiwan and China market for Princess, and has simultaneously worked in the American and Australian markets as well.