Hengjiang Lion Dance Fair (photo by Foshan Daily Qiumei)
On Feb. 5th, Hengjiang lion dance fair in Dali, Yanbu and Lishui lion dance competition were held at the same time. Each had its own characteristics.
Hengjiang Lion Dance Fair
Hengjiang Lion Dance Fair was held on yesterday afternoon. More than 50 lions showed and shared dancing skills together, attracting dozens of citizens.
At two o’clock, crowd arrived early although the weather was hot. Eight lions moved simultaneously while the drum rang. Flying, standing, shaking heads and tails, their actions were full of power. Through a series of actions with strong drumbeats, lions swallowed vegetables and “Lishi”(red packet) on the ground. This fantastic “Caiqing”won thunderous cheers and applause.
Hengjiang Lion Dance Fair is an annual Spring Festival activity in Dali, which has lasted for over one hundred years. The lion dance groups taking part in this year’s activity come from different villages. The organizer hoped this activity can greet visitors, pray for peace and inherit Lingnan lion dance culture.
Lishui lion dance competition
Yesterday, a lion dance competition was held in Lishui. Participant teams gave a show with improved clothing, which is ornamental and traditional.
Lishui lion dance competition is a traditional custom in Lishui. It is held on every 8th day of the lunar year and has been for about more than two decades. There are 6 high pile lion dance teams and 10 traditional southern lion dance team took part in this year’s competition. Scratching head, shaking head and swinging legs, these actions show the lion’s flexibility and cuteness.
As in previous years, the clothing and actions in this year have improved. Li Nianzong, the general chief judge of this competition said, the lion dance became more dramatic now, which was good for the inheritance of Southern lion dance culture.