In this, the first anthology of its kind, editor and translator Faye C. Fei provides a guided tour of China's evolving conceptions of theater and performance through the writings of noted Chinese philosophers, scholars, artists, and critics. The book's more than sixty selections, the majority of which have been translated for the first time in English, are arranged chronologically to provide a historical overview of four major periods: antiquity to the Song dynasty (fourth century B.C.-1279 A.D.); the Yuan dynasty (1279-1368) and Ming dynasty (1368-1644); the Qing dynasty (1644-1911); and the remainder of the twentieth century.. "The writings treat the origins, aesthetic principles, and functions of theater. Some are virtual manuals on playwriting and performance techniques; some describe the practices, conditions, and government policies concerning theatrical performance. The book will be an invaluable resource to those interested in theater and performance, as well as to students and teachers of Asian philosophy, history, and arts.