Early Chinese Theatre and Drama

Early Chinese Theatre

• Origins traced to the Shang dynasty (16th century BC – c. 1046 BC), with shamanistic dances and songs recorded.
• Zhou dynasty (c. 1046 BC – 256 BC) saw professional entertainers emerging, including dancers, musicians, and actors. These earliest actors were likely clowns.
• Evidence suggests court performances existed that mirrored shamanistic practices, with music and costumes.
• Famous actor You Meng (or Jester Meng) was a giant, and his performance highlighted the ability of entertainment to influence rulers.

Early Drama and Storytelling

• The Great Warrior Dance (Dawu Dance) from the Zhou dynasty was a significant performance.
• The dance, discussed by Confucius, depicted the overthrow of the Shang dynasty by King Wu and the foundation of the Zhou.
• The dance used symbolism to portray military might, success, and the waiting for other leaders.

The Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD)

• The Horn-Butting Show (Jiǎodǐxì), a wrestling show, flourished and was among the "Hundred Shows" during the Han dynasty.
• The Horn-Butting Show, likely also a spectator sport, shows evidence of performers acting out defined roles and plotlines based on stories like the battle between a tiger and a magician.
• Murals from aristocratic tombs like the one in Dahuting, Xinmi, Henan, confirm the presence of performers entertaining at banquets.