The first book-length study in any language of the presence and influence of Mei Lanfang, the internationally known Chinese actor who specialized in female roles on the twentieth-century international stage. Tian investigates Mei Lanfang's presence and influence and the transnational and intercultural appropriations of his art.
'Tian's greatest strength is his ability to draw our attention to a balanced history with his comprehensive summary of conflicting views of Mei's tours ... Tian offers a rich paradigm of the multiple strategies that evolved in response to Chinese theatre's increasing visibility. There is much to enjoy in these thoroughly researched and critically argued chapters ... This book is sure to provoke further discussion among all those who have an interest in the impact of Mei Lanfang on the international stage.' - Comparative Drama