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Lion Dance
(02)
...There is
almost no known textbook method of learning the art of the lion dance.
Performances are mainly based on the troupe's ability to express their
skills and creativity, usually with instructions passed down from
mentor to disciples, or otherwise observed from other lion dance
performances. There is however certain guidelines established to the
conduct of a lion dance performance, but these guidelines tend to
differ from country to country.
Headed by a coach under the tutorage of a master, otherwise known as a
'sifu', lion dance performances are among one of the most difficult
dances to perform. Not only must the troupe be able to coordinate
their dance steps, they have to make the lion look alive with grace
and dignity, maintaining their stamina and rhythm to the constant
beating of the musicians instruments.
Even the lion outfit must be beautifully adorned with colours and
ornaments, as this will bring out the enigma and beauty of the lion.
When performed correctly, a lion dance's ambience can actually be felt
by its' audience, reflecting on to the appreciation and respect for
this ancient art.
Liondance as
competition :
 Lion
dance tournaments are not uncommon in many countries though such
competitions are usually restricted within a nation's boundary. There
was no yardstick available to measure the resourcefulness and
originality of each troupe's dance steps. The championship's evolution
began when a platform was needed to bring together these international
teams to meet, compete and even exchange ideas on how to better
develop the lion dance, turning tradition into an international sports
phenomenon. The challenge was to segregate the lion dance stereo
typecast of a cultural performing arts event commonly seen during the
Lunar Chinese New Year.
 Since
the lion dance performance itself is already an arduous task requiring
the coordination of skills, acrobatic and athletic finesse,
synchronised along with the tunes and rhythms of cymbals, drums and
gongs, the championship challenge had to be made more difficult and
taxing for the performers. Stringent rules were established and a
performance standard imposed to ensure only the best qualifies to
partake in the championship. Another obstacle that the performers had
to confront was that their performance must be done on a row of
specially placed stilts or pillars, and they must complete their
performance within the stipulated time limit. As seen from the past
championships, this is not easy as many have succumbed to injuries
during their efforts.
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