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Dance in China

Dragon dance
The dragon dance originated in China. Along with the Lion Dance it is one of the most iconic Chinese celebrations. There have been records of the dragon dance from as early as the Han dynasty (205 B.C. – 219 A.D.). It is first practiced in China as part of the farming and harvest culture, as a prayer for rain and blessing, as well as a method of healing and preventing sickness. Over the course of history, the dragon dance diverged from its original purpose and became a form of festival celebration as well as manifestation of good will.

After thousands of years of development, the dragon dance has diverged into several streams, each composing of their own unique style and costume. However, the majority involves the performance of a skilled team whose job is to bring the motionless dragon body to life. The dragon itself is a long serpent shaped body on poles, assembled by joining the series of hoops on each section. Traditionally dragons were constructed of wood, with bamboo hoops on the inside and covered with a rich fabric. The dragons may range in length from 25 to 70 meters, composed of 15 to 46 sections, each with its own performer. Longer dragons are thought to be more lucky than its shorter counterparts.

Lion Dance
The Lion dance originated in china during the Han dynasty (205 B.C. – 219 A.D.) and became popular during the Tang dynasty. As lions are not native to China, much like the dragon and Kirin it was once thought to be a mythical creature. It was not until the Han dynasty where lions were introduced to China for the first time from western regions of Asia.

The lion dance was originally practiced in China for the purpose of exorcism of evil spirits and bad luck, due to the fearsome appearance of the lion. However, overtime the lion dance became the symbol for blessing, good will and longevity and it is performed at many important grand occasions, including Chinese New Year, cultural and religious festivals, business opening events, birthday celebrations, honor guest welcoming and wedding ceremonies by the Chinese communities.

Many styles of the lion dance exist today in different regions of China, such as Guangdong, Ninghai and Ningbo. The majority involves two performers, one acting as the “head” of the lion and the other acting as the “tail”. The performers need to carefully collaborate to bring the motionless lion body to life. The Chinese lion dance is closely associated with Kung Fu; performers of the dance are usually martial art members of the local Kung Fu school. Acrobatics are very common in the lion dance, with stunts like lifts or balancing on a giant ball. Performance of the lion dance is accompanied by the music of beating drums, cymbals and gongs. Such instruments synchronize to the lion’s movement and actions. The lion costume used for the dance is made out of bamboo and silk. Such costumes can only be custom made in specialty craft shops in rural part of China.