Kuaiban is a traditional form of narrative singing art, belonging to the rhythmic recitation category of Chinese quyi (folk vocal arts). Its accompanying instrument is made of wooden or bamboo clappers strung together. In earlier times, it was known as Shulaibao (literally "counting treasures as they come"), also referred to as Shunkouliu (doggerel), Liukouzhe (verses flowing from the mouth), or Lianzizui (fast-talking rhymes). It evolved from the Lianhualao (beggar’s songs) performed by the impoverished during China’s Song Dynasty.
