* Developed in the 14th century
* Performed on a square stage with a roofed backstage area
* Actors wear elaborate masks and costumes
* Plays are traditionally based on historical or mythological stories
* Noh is a highly stylized form of theater with a focus on symbolism and ritual
Kabuki (Japan)
* Developed in the 17th century
* Performed on a large, proscenium stage
* Actors wear elaborate makeup and costumes
* Plays are often based on contemporary stories or popular legends
* Kabuki is a more popular form of theater than Noh and is often seen as a form of entertainment
Peking Opera (China)
* Developed in the 18th century
* Performed on a large, proscenium stage
* Actors wear elaborate makeup and costumes
* Plays are traditionally based on historical or mythological stories
* Peking Opera is a highly stylized form of theater with a focus on acrobatics and martial arts
Kunqu (China)
* Developed in the 16th century
* Performed on a smaller stage than Peking Opera
* Actors wear less elaborate makeup and costumes
* Plays are often based on romantic stories or everyday life
* Kunqu is a more refined form of theater than Peking Opera and is often seen as a form of art
Kathakali (India)
* Developed in the 17th century
* Performed on a large, open-air stage
* Actors wear elaborate makeup and costumes
* Plays are traditionally based on religious stories
* Kathakali is a highly stylized form of theater with a focus on dance and mime