Page:A Pocket Guide to China (1943).pdf/30



FOR the most part the Chinese do not have the highly organized amusement places to be found in American cities and towns. They love movies, any kind of movies, as you will discover when you wedge your way into a crowded building. But do not expect comfort when you do so. The likelihood is that you will sit on an uncomfort­able bench or folding chair and that the house will be hot in summer and cold in winter. As for the picture, it may be anything. It may be a Harold Lloyd you saw 15 years ago!

Theaters are more numerous than movie houses. Few Americans really understand the Chinese theater but those who do, find its acting a sensitive and mature art. Go at least once if only to marvel at the audience. People eat hot food that is brought in by waiters, crack watermelon seeds between their teeth, drink pots and pots of tea, talk, play with their children, and catch the hot towels that are thrown over the heads of the crowd by expert towel throwers. Better not use these towels yourself, however.

There are tea houses everywhere, and this is the equiva­lent of the English public house, only tea is drunk in­stead of beer and ale.

Actually the Chinese shows which you may enjoy best are the little traveling theaters in the country. And there 25