chinese lion dancing
Many who see a Chinese Lion Dance performed, and even many of the performers, do not stop to reflect on the symbolism's being presented. However, by understanding them, a greater appreciation for this ancient ritual can be gained. Insights obtained from studying the meanings of the ritual and myths surrounding it will also be helpful in studying the origin and development of the Lion Dance. By listening and watching performances of the Lion Dance, I can explain some ways that lion dancing originated and the tools that are necessary to perform a lion dance. The traditional lion consists of a head that is usually made of bamboo and paper mache. It does not resemble any known lion on earth. It has a mystical look with a furry mustache, ears and eye lids, a horn like a unicorn on the top of its head, and a mirror on it's nose. It could be that travelers from Persia saw lions and described them to the creators of today's lion heads. Lion heads have aluminum and PVC pieces. This makes them lighter and more durable for the acrobatics in the modern patterns. The colors of the lions vary like the color of the rainbow. Each color has its own significance and meaning. Traditional kung fu schools still stick to these
The cymbals play a complimentary role and fills out the rest of the beat. The more skill used and obstacles conquered the better the luck brought by the show. Beginning the dance with an awakening represents an awakening of the spirit, a dawning of something new. The drum was first recorded in Chinese history when a famous general had a dream about leading his troupes into battle. The cleaning reinforces this by giving the image of shedding off the old, and being refreshed. The opening can also include a short kung fu form but this is not necessary. The drum is the leader of the band and has a long history in Chinese culture. The sound or beat gives the lion the energy to make their moves. In addition to the head, is the body of the lion that is usually referred to as the tail. The Chinese are credited with creating the gong. While many cultures independently created drums, no other culture ever used a gong. After cleaning each part of his body, the lion shakes his head three times and rises. Many of the tails these days are going to the shorter length of 7 to 8 feet. Guan Kung lions are the most generic and can be used by anyone.
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