Danxian gets its themes mostly from famous Chinese novels -- Strange Tales of Liaozhai, Strange Tales New and Old, and Outlaws of the Marsh. The better-known numbers are: Rouge, The Courtesan's Jewel Box, and Wu Shihui. Some reflect the life styles of people at different periods of history. The Poor Woman's Visit to the Wanshou Temple describes the life of the people at the end of the Qing Dynasty, and Qiu Jin Rises in Rebellion describes conditions in the early years of the Republic of China.

After the founding of the People's Republic of China, danxian developed further. New programs were written and performed, while changes were made in vocal music and performance. The duet of male and female voices was introduced, and the singing of many songs continuously was a significant feature. The leading singers were Cao Baolu, Shi Huiru, Zhao Yuming, and Ma Zenghui.

Amateurs became active again after the 1980s. A large number of works reflecting the realistic life emerged. Danxian also spread from North China to some cities in East and Southwest China.