Physical Fitness Demand: Moderate

The Traditional Chinese Lion Dance (中國傳統舞獅) is typically performed during Festival Celebrations or in Major Event Ceremonies. It is believed that the dance of lion can scare away the evil spirits and bring good luck, fortune and prosperity to those watching the lion dances. This performance art combines martial art postures and movements with the percussion rhythms, as well as the operation of costumes and percussion instruments.

The traditional Chinese Lion Dance is performed by a group of performers. A two-person team performs under the Lion costume, moving as one active lion. One manipulates the lion head while the other operates the lion's body and tail, synchronizing their movements. The lion dance follows the beats of percussion instruments, including the drum, cymbals, and gong. A person takes on the role of the Happy Guy, leading the lion and coordinating the percussion instruments to provide the beats for the dance.

This class is designed for beginners to gain a basic understanding of the history and key features of the Chinese Lion Dances. Opportunities will be provided for students to learn basic martial art postures and movements to manipulate the lion costume, and to operate the cymbals and gongs for the South China Lion Dance.

Participants should wear sportswear and non-marking sports shoes.