Stages of Laughter: The Development of Shanghai Farce and reflection of Chinese society

Abstract

This study examines the evolution of Shanghai farce and its reflection of societal changes in Shanghai across various historical periods. Using qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews, group interviews, and observation, this research applies theories of structural functionalism, semiotics, the SMCR model, and social constructionism to analyze the interplay between farce and social dynamics. Findings reveal that Shanghai farce evolved in response to major social transformations, which shaped its themes and characters. The study focuses on three key periods: the origin period (1941-1948), marked by wartime critique and social resilience; the Cultural Revolution period (1949-1976), characterized by political alignment and censorship; and the prosperity period (1978-2000), where state support enabled a revival amidst modernization. This study traces the evolution of Shanghai farce, focusing on its content development and its role in social reflection. It highlights how the genre has adapted to societal changes, reflecting key social dynamics throughout modern China's history.