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Guo Chao’s comprehensive study of male dan in traditional Chinese theatre provides fresh insights into Chinese culture and history. The book draws a chronological chart of male dan for around 500 years, examining the differences and/or relations between male dan and homosexuality. His informative analysis allows readers to understand this particular Chinese phenomenon.

Mei Sun, National Central University

Guo Chao offers an engaging and original contribution to the study of the male dan, tracing this prominent but often misunderstood figure from its late imperial heyday to the twenty-first century. Nimbly navigating between sociocultural history, theatre and performance studies, and gender studies, Chinese Traditional Theatre and Male Dan courageously complicates received narratives, whether unsympathetic or celebratory.

Josh Stenberg, The University of Sydney

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