Yin Xiaosheng, a veteran crosstalk performer, gathers himself backstage before he goes up on stage at Qianxiangyi Teahouse in Tianjin, Aug 27, 2010. The 72-year-old was a favorite apprentice of Ma Sanli, the late crosstalk player. [Photo/Asianewsphoto]

Wang Shuai (L) and Liu Lei perform crosstalk at Qianxiangyi Teahouse in Tianjin, Aug 27, 2010. Female players are rarely seen in crosstalk shows. [Photo/Asianewsphoto]