- Traditional folk dramas: These dramas are often based on traditional tales, myths, and legends, and are typically performed in rural areas by local troupes. They often incorporate music, dance, and storytelling, and are often highly theatrical in nature.
- Modern theater: Modern theater in Africa and Asia has been influenced by Western theater traditions, but has also developed its own unique style. Modern plays often address social, political, and economic issues, and are often written by and performed by professional actors.
- Film and television: Film and television have become increasingly popular forms of drama in Africa and Asia. Film and television dramas often address similar issues as modern theater, but they reach a wider audience.
- Spoken word: Spoken word is a form of drama that uses spoken language, often in the form of poetry, to convey a message. Spoken word performances can be delivered by a single performer or by a group of performers, and often address social, political, and economic issues.
- Shadow plays: Shadow plays are a form of drama in which puppets are used to create shadows on a screen. Shadow plays are often used to tell traditional tales, myths, and legends, and are often performed during religious festivals or other special occasions.
- Kabuki: Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theater that combines music, dance, and drama. Kabuki performances are typically highly stylized and elaborate, and are often performed by male actors.
- Noh: Noh is a traditional form of Japanese theater that combines music, dance, and drama. Noh performances are typically highly stylized and minimalistic, and are often performed by male actors.
- Bunraku: Bunraku is a traditional form of Japanese puppet theater. Bunraku performances are typically highly stylized and elaborate, and are often performed by three puppeteers.
- Peking opera: Peking opera is a traditional form of Chinese theater that combines music, dance, and drama. Peking opera performances are typically highly stylized and elaborate, and are often performed by male actors.
- Kunqu opera: Kunqu opera is a traditional form of Chinese theater that combines music, dance, and drama. Kunqu opera performances are typically highly stylized and minimalistic, and are often performed by male actors.
- Kathakali: Kathakali is a traditional form of Indian theater that combines music, dance, and drama. Kathakali performances are typically highly stylized and elaborate, and are often performed by male actors.
- Bharatanatyam: Bharatanatyam is a traditional form of Indian dance-drama that combines music, dance, and drama. Bharatanatyam performances are typically highly stylized and minimalistic, and are often performed by female actors.