Xiangsheng performers in a Tianjin theater.
Crosstalk, also known by its Chinese name xiangsheng (Simplified Chinese: 相声, Traditional Chinese: 相聲, pinyin: xiàngsheng, literally, "looking at each other and speaking"), is a traditional Chinese comedy form. Crosstalk is a special kind of dialogue and a special kind of performance.
The comic language has many puns and allusions. The words are spoken in a fast, rushed manner. The comedy is a kind of banter.