Some of you may know that this is The Year of the Dragon – he didn’t make it out to dance because he’s some 80-feet long and requires some 27 adults to bring him to life.
We were quite happy having a foursome of Lions come to life, thanks to the youth and adults who make up the Hawaiian Lion Dance Association.Most of the dancers and musicians were young people being guided by adults, a refreshing demonstration of what wonderful things can happen when elders pass traditions on to the next generation.
Those of us who attended the dance presentation learned much about Chinese Culture and the role of the dance within it. . .culture and tradition, celebration and happiness – the new year was off to a great start.
With the beat of the drum. . .
The lions danced . . .
And then they rested. . .until the drum beat again brings them to life.
It is again Travel Photo Thursday, so be sure to visit Budget Travelers Sandbox, creator of this weekly event.
I'd love to see colourful dancing like this. Too bad the dragon didn't show -as that would be one heck of a sight.
ReplyDeleteThe program's MC told us that the largest dragon he ever saw dance was 1,000 feet long and required 2,000 humans to make it dance -- it was in Hong Kong. Pretty amazing stuff. These lions danced to martial arts steps we also learned.
ReplyDeleteAre you still hanging out in Hawaii, Jackie? (Tough job, but someone's got to do it, right?)
ReplyDeleteIn case you missed it, here's the blog post I wrote about the Year of the Dragon: http://ttftr.com/AprCys
That must have been a wonderful experience, Jackie, especially to see the involvement of the young people.
ReplyDeleteGreat, I love lion dance!
ReplyDeleteOkay, I just received an email from the Lion Dance Association and they've offered a behind-the-scenes look. . .as in dancing within the lion. . .I am dancing around the room and can hardly wait to return next year. . .you'll be hearing more about these lions. . .an inside look so to speak!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun, colourful performance. Is Chinese culture a big thing in Hawaii, then?
ReplyDeleteSorry, I didn't respond sooner, Sophie. Yes, Chinese culture has had a prominent place in Hawaii since the 1800's. Honolulu's Chinatown is one of the largest and most spectacular we've come across on our travels. And Chinese New Year fills the paper with events and special menus at restaurants. It is a great time to be there.
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