Lion dance 舞獅 is a form of traditional dance in the Chinese culture and other Asian countries in which performers mimic a lion’s movements in a lion costume to bring good luck and fortune. The lion dance is usually performed during the Chinese New Year and other traditional, cultural and religious festivals. It may also be performed at important occasions such as business opening events, special celebrations or wedding ceremonies, or may be used to honour special guests by the Chinese communities. The Chinese lion dance is normally operated by two dancers, one of whom manipulates the head while the other forms the rear end of the lion. It is distinguishable from the Dragon Dance, which is performed by many people who hold the long sinuous body of the dragon on poles. Lion dance fundamental movements can be found in Chinese Martial Art, and it is commonly performed to a vigorous drumbeat.

There are two main forms of the Lion dance, the Northern Lion and the Southern Lion 南獅. Both forms are commonly found around the world especially in Southeast Asia, the Southern Lion predominates 南獅比較普遍全球 as it was widespread by the Chinese Southern communities who are historically mostly of Southern Chinese origin. Versions of lion dance related to the Chinese lion are also found in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam. Besides the Southern Chinese lion dance, other forms of lion dance also exist in India, Indonesia and East Africa.

Chinese Lion dance in a Chinese culture: symbolise bringing good luck to people and businesses all round, plus warding off evil spirit. They are usually performed by two martial artists and accompanied by Drum, cymbals and gong. In order to make the lion behave almost like a big cat, require a lot of agility and strength from the performers and this is particularly very beneficial for martial artists (i.e., improve their muscular strength, flexibility and stamina immensely)! Strangely, the more you do this, the younger you look! 

Interested?
Minimum age 8+ within school term time.

Starts on 3rd Match at Nether Hall CB1 8NN , Martial Art Studio from 2-3 pm

Fee: Block of 6 session = £36 and they are as follow: 3rd,10th,17th, 24th March
21st April and 28th April.

Chinese Lion Dance is quite popular for new business, the spectacle symbolises good luck and prosperity for the proprietor and often attracts huge crowd which can be their future customers!