We report here a study that has revealed two distinct modes of reactivity of azobenzene derivatives (ArNNAr) with benzynes, depending on whether the aryne reacts with atrans- or acis-azobenzene geometric isomer. Under thermal conditions,trans-azobenzenes engage benzyneviaan initial [2 + 2] trapping event, a process analogous to known reactions of benzynes with diarylimines (ArCNAr). This is followed by an electrocyclic ring opening/closing sequence to furnish dihydrophenazine derivatives, subjects of contemporary interest in other fields (e.g., electronic and photonic materials). In contrast, when the benzyne is attacked by acis-azobenzene, formation of aminocarbazole derivatives occursviaan alternative, net (3 + 2) pathway. We have explored these complementary orthogonal processes both experimentally and computationally.