What are the historical origins and cultural manifestations of theatrical cross-dressing across global societies? Laurence Senelick, a distinguished scholar of theater history, examines the practice of transvestism on stage by synthesizing archival research, performance theory, and historical analysis. He argues that theatrical cross-dressing serves as a complex mirror for societal attitudes toward gender, sexuality, and the performative nature of identity throughout human history.

Experts recognize this work as a foundational text for understanding the intersection of gender performance and theatrical history. Scholars frequently cite the book for its extensive research and its ability to contextualize transvestism within broader cultural frameworks.