Modern Chinese theater is an evolving animal that has worn many different coats over the years. At one time it was a tool for promoting revolutionary change, at another a popular art form. On its centennial birthday modern Chinese drama now faces a threat from the very thing that once spawned it-modernization. Television, the Internet and other forms of easily accessible entertainment have taken its place and led to falling audience figures. But modern theater is fighting back and according to some observers it will rise again as China's growing middle class rediscovers the power of a good play. Modern Chinese theater is an evolving animal that has worn many different coats over the years. At one time it was a tool for promoted revolutionary change, at another a popular art form. On its centennial birthday modern Chinese drama now faces a threat from the very thing that once spawned it-modernization. Television, the Internet and other forms of easily accessible entertainment have taken its place and led to falling audience figures. But modern theater is fighting back and according to some observers it will rise again as China's growing middle class rediscovers the power of a good play.