Join me in conversation with Professor Xing Fan who is a specialist in Chinese drama, theatre, and performance culture, with research interests in Asian performance aesthetics, historiography, intercultural collaborations, and gender studies. She is the author of Staging Revolution and has contributed peer-reviewed articles, translations, and essays to various academic journals and books. A practitioner as well as a scholar, she has training in multiple Asian performance arts, has won the Po‘okela Award for Best Leading Female Role, and currently serves as the President of the Association for Asian Performance while holding editorial roles in academic journals.

Step into the mesmerizing world of ancient Chinese theater! In this episode of Curtains Up!, we journey through time to explore how performance arts evolved from sacred rituals in the Zhou Dynasty to the breathtaking spectacle of Peking Opera.

Discover the theatrical innovations of the Tang Dynasty’s Pear Garden, the poetic dramas of the Yuan Dynasty, and the vibrant artistry of Ming and Qing opera traditions. We’ll also spotlight legendary figures like Guan Hanqing, Tang Xianzu, and Mei Lanfang, whose work shaped the legacy of Chinese theater.

Whether you're a theater enthusiast or a lover of cultural history, this episode unveils the rich traditions, dramatic styles, and artistic mastery that continue to inspire performers today.

🎧 Tune in now and let the stage transport you through centuries of theatrical brilliance! #CurtainsUp #ChineseTheater #PekingOpera #TheaterHistory

In today’s special episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most intriguing—and sometimes eerie—elements of theater: Superstitions. My friends Neil and Luke joins me in a conversation explaining some of the fascinating ones.

From the infamous ‘Scottish play’ to the mysterious ‘break a leg,’ we’ll explore the rituals and beliefs that have been passed down through generations of actors, crew members, and theater enthusiasts. Join us as we uncover the fascinating history, strange origins, and lingering magic of superstitions in the theater.

So, sit back, relax, and let’s take a deep dive into the superstitions that keep the spotlight shining bright.

Join me in a conversation with Ms. Chandrayee, one of the prominent Kathak dancers in Seattle. We learn that Kathak is more than just a dance—it’s a storytelling art that blends grace, rhythm, and expression. Rooted in the royal courts and temples of India, this classical dance form captivates audiences with intricate footwork, rapid spins, and emotive gestures. Ms. Chandrayee's performances embodies movement that tells a story, whether it’s from ancient mythology or contemporary themes.

Join me in this captivating episode of Curtains Up: A Historical Perspective on Drama as we journey to ancient India to explore the mesmerizing world of Sanskrit drama. Discover the profound influence of the Natya Shastra, Bharata's timeless guide to performance arts, and unravel the concept of rasa — the emotional essence at the heart of Indian theater.

Don’t miss this episode packed with history, culture, and timeless storytelling!

Join me and a very special guest speaker, Professor Scott Magelssen from University of Washington, School of Drama as we talk about ancient theater in roman history!

Join me as we dive into the depths of 2 very special and important playwrights from Ancient Rome: Plautus and Seneca!

Our very first episode! Dive into the depths of ancient tragedies made by the 3 most important playwrights of the time.