Dragon and Lion Dance
The dragon dance is an important festive tradition in China. It was originally performed to please the dragon, who is the deity of water, to ask for rain during drought years. Gradually it became an entertainment and dance form on festive occasions, usually during the Spring Festival and Lantern Festival.The dragons, usually ranging from several meters to more than 100 meters long, are mainly made of bamboo, wood, rattan, cloth, paper, and other materials. There are poles attached to the belly of the dragon. During the performance, performers hold the poles and raise the dragon, starting the grand dance to the beats of roaring drums. Sometimes a performer raises a pearl and entices the dragon to follow his rhythm. The lion is not an indigenous animal of China. However, the lion is an important Chinese totem, the symbol of power, majesty and courage, capable of warding off evil spirits. In Chinese legend it is said that the lion was the ninth son of the dragon and made the best guardian, so it was frequently seen in front of royal palaces, offices and residences. The 485 lions guarding the famous Lugou Qiao (Marco Polo Bridge) are the best known examples in China.
The lion dance is another important tradition
in China, usually performed with the dragon dance on auspicious occasions.
A good performance is believed to bring luck and happiness. Performing
the lion dance requires more Wush (Kung Fu) skills than the
dragon dance. There usually are two performers who play the lion. One,
handling the lion's head, leads the dance and shows the lion's emotions.
The other plays the body and the tail. They hide themselves under a
cloth hide attached with the head. The lion is accompanied by musicians
playing a drum, a gong and cymbals, and a man who entices the lion,
usually holding a fan or a giant ball called a Qing.
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“The style, grace, and execution of their dance routines appeared
flawless…the costumes of both groups were so colorful and attractive…it
was riveting!”
-Bill C., National Park, New Jersey