Traditional Lion Dance
There are many legends and stories behind the origins of lion dancing. The most common story states that lion dancing originated sometime during the Tang Dynasty (618-906 A.D). An Emperor was plagued with dreams each night in which a strange looking animal saved his life. When he consulted with his ministers, one claimed that it resembled an animal from the West, a lion. From then on, lions represented good fortune and prosperity. Lions were constructed using bamboo, papier-mâché, fabric and fur to be used during festivals, celebrations, grand openings, and Chinese New Year to bring good luck and happiness. Since lions are not native to China, these puppets took on many characteristics of dragons, phoenixes and other Chinese mythical creatures.
Lion dancing is practiced and performed mostly by kung fu schools because it requires the workforce schools could provide and their training for strong stances and good balance.
The big-head Buddha is accompaniment to the lion dance and acts as a comical diversion, teasing the lion and leading it with its fan.
It is good luck for the crowd to touch the lion and feed it money (traditionally folded into a red envelope). In China, people touch the lion as much as they can so fortune and prosperity can be bestowed upon them.
East-West Kung Fu has performed on many occasions over the years including ceremonies, parades, grand openings, and New Year, birthday, and wedding celebrations. In recent years we have been an annual fixture at local events including The Oregon Asian Celebration, Asian Night Market, Oregon Asian Celebration Art Exhibition, Eugene Riverfront Festival, and the Eugene Chinese Immersion School Lunar New Year Celebration.
For inquiries please contact us at info@eastwestkungfu.com
Portland, Oregon Kung Fu/Lion Dance club in Chinatown, 1930s.
