What is a chinese lion dance?
The lion dance ( 舞狮 ) is a form of traditional dance which incorportates kung-fu. There are performers within a lion costume. It commonly is performed at new years but also other celebrations such as parades and festivals. The lions are commonly accompanied by flutes and drums that they move in rhythm with.
The chinese lion dance is often switched up with the chinese dragon dance, which is a completely different performance art where multiple individuals control one dragon.
What types of lions exist?
There are two main types of chinese lions, the Southern lions and the Northern lions. Of course, there also other local forms of lions but I will be primarily focusing on Southern lions here.
Northern lions usually have very simplistic patterns, a gold-painted head and shaggy red and yellow fur. It has more history than other lions. They are more slim and dog-like, and do more gymnastic movements than their Southern variants.
Southern lions originated in guangdong and are popular in hong kong. They have more rounded heads, noticeable big fluffy lips and eyebrows, as well as very complex patterns on both their head and their bodies. They prioritise performance arts, with an emphasis put into the lions behaviours.
Additionally, Southern lions have two different styles. The "Fut San" lion and the "Hok San" lion. Initially, they will seem very similar but there are multiple differences in both their performances and their appearance.
"Fut San" lions are more common, they have a curved mouth / lips, a pointed horn and in some cases a longer tail.
"Hok San" lions have a flat mouth / lips, a curled horn and in some cases a shorter tail.
What is the anatomy of a southern chinese lion suit?
For adult lions there will be two people controlling the suit. The performers legs act as the lions limbs. The performer in the front manages the head, while the person in the back the tail. The person in the front is usually more light, while the one in the back is more bulky as to make it easier to lift them.
Southern lion heads are out of papier-mâché over a bamboo frame covered with gauze, then painted. A lion can blink, open its mouth, move its ears and wag its tail with a pulley system.
How do I respect a chinese lion?
Avoid getting in their way when they are performing. Remember that under the suit there are actual people, so when touching, to be especially respectful regarding the backside of the lion. You are free to pet the lions head, ears, brows or mouth if it approaches you. In a southern lions case, do not touch the mirror on its forehead or its horn, as both are used to ward off evil and it's considered bad luck.
You are free to also feed the lion greens (such as lettuce). Do not give it anything that's white (that's considered bad luck!)
Can anyone be a lion dancer?
YES! no matter the age, race or gender. In the past, women weren't allowed to participate but this is now no longer the case.