Lion Dance

A little bird told me ...............

According to myth, lion dance was conceived to scare away the evil spirt of Nien during spring.

Lion dances, which are colourful and acrobatic is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and identity dating back at least a thousand years. Originally a court dance, performed only in the Forbidden City of Beijing, to entertain the emperor, it slowly made its way out until it was adopted by the common people.

Accompanied by crashing cymbals and heady drumbeats , it is believed that the lion dance brings luck and prosperity. Besides being perfomed during Chinese New Year, it is also performed at official openings of buildings and at launching of businesses, where a bunch of sang choy (lettuce) is tied to a string from the ceiling.
The lion dance performer leaps and catches the lettuce with its mouth, then chews it, spitting it out to the left, right and centre, symbolising luck, prosperity will be in abundance throughout the year, spreading far and wide .

There are 2 distinct types of Mou See-
a) the Northern
- closest to its original form in the royal palace.
- reddish -orang in colour.
- Its fur is thicker and almost covers the players entirely to keep them warm
during the cold weather.

b) Southern
- weather being warmer, materials used became lighter

LION HEAD
All new lion heads must undergo the traditional "baptism" ritual of Tim ching , or doting the lion's eyes to give it life. A red dot made from Cho Sah (mercury oxide) grounded into a paste with water is painted at the centre of the new lion's eyes. Can only be done by elders, monks or respected figures such as village head.
Special prayers are also recited to invoke the blessings of the gods and ancestors, and the lion dance troupe must Keng Lai, or pay their respects to their ancestors before any performance.

Lion dance is closely related to kung fu, because its movements require strength, power and agility. Age is not a matter but martials arts skills are required as it emphasises the performer's character, behavior and discipline.

ref: NST FEB 22 2008

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