LION DANCE 2014, CHINESE NEW YEAR, SINGAPORE

The Lion Dance is an integral part of the Chinese New Celebrations, nowhere more so than here in Singapore.  You will come across these Lion Dance Troupes (the dance is performed a lot during the two weeks of Lunar New Year festivities), all over the place, sometimes when you least expect it.  The loud banging of drums and clashing of symbols is a pretty good indicator that there is a Lion Dance going on in the vicinity.  

The tradition is supposed to bring good luck, fortune, health and happiness for the coming year, which is why many businesses, schools and clubs will arrange for a troupe to come and perform. 

Last year I witnessed a dance in a Shopping Mall, this year I was fortunate enough to witness a really good one at the One° 15 Marina Club on Sentosa, close to where I live.  I got some photos and also some video footage. are a number of Lion Dance troupes here in Singapore.  The performance I saw this time was done by Xin Cheng Events and Entertainment.

The Southern Lion (南獅) Dance was originated from China, which dates back to the Third Century B.C, and is traditionally regarded as a guardian creature. Southern Lions (南獅) are symbolic creatures, performing to summon luck, prosperity and fortune. The Southern Lion has a fresco of coloration with large eyes and mouth, and a short fur coat. The Holy animal is believed to hold a statutory position amongst the divine creatures and gods, with the ability to bless and bring good fortune and luck.

When performed, the lion dance wards off “evil” spirits, thus inviting for all good things: health, happiness, wealth and prosperity. The lion dance can be performed at all kinds of celebrations: from weddings, birthdays, ceremonies, on-stage performances and business openings, especially popular during the Chinese Lunar New Year Celebrations.

A careful demonstration of the stylized movements of the Lion Dance is performed by a skilled performer, with basics of the Chinese Martial Arts. Performances are meticulously synchronized with the rhythmic drum beats, gongs and cymbals percussions.

                   Xin Cheng Events & Entertainment

Just need bodies

Preparing the banners

Waiting for the performance to start

Almost show time, where is my head

The performance started out with one lion who buttered up the crowd, before jumping up onto some poles for some fantastic leaps and bounds.  Then he was joined by two more lions, nicely decked out with LED lights.  The throwing of the greens and unfurling of banners was completed with much drum banging.  Lots of noise is required to scare away any evil spirits.

The children love the lions :)

Please check out my You Tube video below, about 2 minutes in is where the real acrobatics begin.  I think it is pretty amazing what these guys do.  Warning, ear plugs may be needed!  Those drums were pretty loud.  Enjoy!

GONG XI FA CAI

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