teng-wei

The Precarious Rise of Female Comedians in China

Contributions from individuals with unique perspectives to share. Hear from everyone, from experts and commentators to those whose voices are often marginalized.

VOICES & OPINION

On China’s biggest stand-up comedy shows, 2025 has been a breakout year for women. But it’s more a story of economics, not equality.

A Look Back at the History of Chinese Stand-Up

The art form, originally a Western import, has had its share of ups and downs in China.

Rise of the Red Retirees? China’s ‘Dama’ Are No Red Guards

Commentators like to blame collectivism and poor values for seniors’ supposed bad behavior, but the real culprit is a reform movement that left them in the cold.

On ‘Dama,’ ‘Daye,’ and China’s Sexist Double Standard

The country’s middle-aged and elderly men are routinely given a pass for bad behavior, so why aren't their female counterparts?

‘Dama’: A History of China’s Ageist, Sexist Slur

While ‘dama’ used to be a term of endearment, it has since become an epithet for middle-aged women who don’t know their place.

How Square Dancing Grannies Became Capitalism’s Next Frontier

Though its first movers and shakers were socialists, the rise of Chinese “square dancing” in cities across the country was choreographed by capitalism.

‘Jackass’ App Makes Explosive Marginal Culture Mainstream

Is the Kuaishou mobile app a chance for poorly represented rural people to finally have a voice?

How ‘Shamate’ Devolved From Urban to Underclass Fashion

A subculture that was once popular with China’s elite has been adopted by the lower classes.