Chinese Xiangsheng Performance Marks Thaw in Sino-Japanese Relations

The Deyun Society, a theater group headed by Guo Degang (born 1973 in Tianjin), showcased a performance in Japan attended by 5,000 people to mark the thawing of diplomatic relations between China and Japan, which have historical roots in WWII atrocities and Taiwan's status. Since the normalization of ties in 1972, collaboration has deepened, with a recent event furthering this trend amid the North Korea crisis. This marked the inaugural Xiangsheng (Crosstalk) performance in Japan, blending in Kabuki influences. A congratulatory letter from former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama expressed hopes for fostering peace and friendship in Asia. Xiangsheng, which features dialogue and political humor, was banned during the Cultural Revolution and later revived after Tiananmen, largely due to Guo Degang's efforts.