Lions Dance

The tradition and history of the Chinese Lion Dance goes backover a thousand years and there are written records detailing its performance dating back to pre 1000 AD. The Dance is a form of traditional dance in Chinese culture, in which performers mimic a Lion’s movements in a Lion costume. The dance is traditionally accompanied by gongs, drums and firecrackers, representing the descent of good luck.

It is traditionally thought that the Lion is the bringer of Health, Wealth and Happiness and is often seen at celebrations such as the opening of a new business, a wedding or as in this case a Charity Boxing Event.

The lion costume may be operated by a single dancer, or more frequently by a pair of dancers. The single dancer springs about while energetically moving and shaking the head and operating the jaws and eyes. The pair of dancers, forming the back and fore legs of the beast, mimic the motions of a single animal as they move between platforms of varying elevations.

The Lion visits mortals like us, who he believes possess a kind heart and therefore they deserve his reconnection. The mortals in turn, to show the Lion is not mistaken in its beliefs and also to bring them further good fortune in the future feed the Lion with "lay see" a small red envelope which contains money.

(Feed the Lion to bring you luck, you will find "lay see" on your table, place money in the envelope and wait until the Lion visits your table.)