Lion Dance stems from a very ancient Chinese legend, going back all the way to the Tang Dynasty (between 618 and 907 AD). This tradition is one of a kind, deeply rooted in Kung Fu, and is a symbol of Prosperity and Peace, of the fight against evil, and is the allegory of a happy beginning. For these reasons, Lion Dance is likely to be found as a popular event during the Chinese New Year celebrations.
The Lion Dance’s basics are movements with strong waist rotations and footwork, but which don’t rely too much on raw arm strength. The Lion’s head may weigh as much as 10 kg, therefore the load must be correctly distributed on the shoulders in order not to exhaust oneself. A good Lion Dance must be able to make the Lion seem real, alive, by insisting on its expressions, on its movements and attitude, and on the general impression it gives. In parallel to the dance, a traditional percussion orchestra (drum, cymbals and gong) plays music for the lion.
We regularly organize Lion Dance lessons, and our demonstration team often participates in various events.
