From puppets to living players and musical speech to colloquial prose, Asian theatre is a rich world of contrasting expressions. While it has thrived for centuries and embodies the folk traditions of the Asian people, it also reflects contemporary concerns and innovative theatrical practices. At a time when Asia is of tremendous importance to the West, its theatre is a key to understanding its culture as well as the heritage of Asian Americans. This book is a detailed and authoritative survey of traditional and contemporary Asian theatre.

The Encyclopedia includes hundreds of alphabetically arranged entries written by more than 90 expert contributors.

Entries on the most important topics cite works for further reading, and the Encyclopedia closes with an extensive bibliography. Social studies students will appreciate its glimpses of Asian culture, while literature and drama students will value its exploration of the Asian theatrical tradition.

Includes hundreds of alphabetically arranged entries written by more than 90 expert contributors

Covers individuals, genres and forms, regional theatres, and special topics

Cites numerous works for further reading

Includes extensive cross-references