The Lion Dance is a tradition dating back over a thousand years that makes it a "must" as part of the Chinese New Year celebrations. Thought to scare away the bad spirits and bring luck for the coming year, I was able to see my first Lion Dance up close and in person at Joe's work on Wednesday, January 25th. It was acrobatic, exciting and filled with meaning and tradition. They say a picture is worth a thousand words and I think that is the best way for me to try to share this experience with you.
The Lion Dance is accompanied by the energetic sounds of drums and cheers from the crowds. The first part of the dance is filled with energetic choreography and amazing leaps from elevated poles as the lion seems to fly from riser to riser.
While high atop a pole, one of the Lions releases a couplet of Happy New Year wishes for 2012.
Turns out you have to "feed" the lion! Throughout the store, hung offerings of vegetables and also Lai See.
The lion "chews" the vegetables and then throws them back out to the crowd to spread prosperity. It is considered very lucky to catch any of the vegetables the lion has "spit" back. Many of those that have gathered to try to catch the lettuce also make sure they try to touch the top of the lions head which is also considered good luck.
Joe celebrates catching the vegetables! He is assured of good fortune for 2012!
Alex and I have an opportunity to offer Lai See to the lion and touch his head for good luck and fortune for 2012.
After his complicated and acrobatic dance, the Lion visited all three floors of the store at Sun Plaza, stopping in every department, as well as offices, to receive the gifts of vegetables and Lai See and spread prosperity and good fortune to employees and customers. The traditional dance and rituals took over two hours and each stop was greeted with tremendous enthusiam and excitement.
The Lion was accompanied throughout his dance and store tour by drums, cymbals, and gongs. I have video of The Lion Dance but have not figured out how to get that on my blog yet. It allows you to get the energy, spirit, and enthusiasm as well as the sounds that are a big part of this traditional dance. I have posted them on my facebook so if you have access to that make sure and take a peak to really get a feel for this experience.
The Saturday after seeing my first Lion Dance I was looking forward to attending the Lunar New Year Carnival where we live. It was held on the lawn at Bel-Air on the Peak and there would be another Lion Dance, a Dragon Dance, food booths, acrobatics, and crafts and games for children. Count me in!
The Lion Dance I saw performed at Bel-Air was on even higher risers and more acrobatic. I tried to capture The Lion as he "flies" through the air.
Another lion stands high atop a pole silhouetted against the backdrop of Hong Kong hills and skyscrapers on a beautiful blue sky day.
More exciting, high flying lion antics! I am officially a fan of the Lion Dance and Dragon Dance and would recommend it to any and all to experience.
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