Lion Dancing
The ancient art of Lion Dancing is but one of the many activities that Chinese communities around the world use regularly to rejuvenate and maintain a sense of connection to one of the world's most venerable cultures. Traditionally, the Lions dance at the opening of a new business venture and at Lunar New Year (Nian), scaring away evil spirits and omens to facilitate good Feng Shui (the harmonising of the various elements within your environment and yourself) and the bringing of health, fertility and long life.
A symbol of traditional Chinese martial art schools (Wushu), Lion Dancing is traditionally considered part of completing the circle of training for all martial arts styles and associated disciplines. Lion Dancing is held to be a crucial reflection of the ability of the true Chinese martial arts practitioner. Conversely, Wushu knowledge is considered to be a prerequisite to the mastery of this sport, as martial skills provide the backbone to each student's further development.
Today the Lion dancers dance to a different tune. In 1990, a group of South African martial arts students from a variety of cultural backgrounds and beliefs decided is was important for them to master this ancient cultural sport. Already fairly adept in the art of Wushu, these students initiated a journey that will not be soon forgotten.
The initial difficulties were substantial, including finding training to the level and skill required while remaining in South Africa. Shirfu Jeff Lan decided the only way they were to achieve their goal was to access training back in his homeland of Mauritius. This was where they found his teacher who had traveled between China and Mauritius on cultural exchange programs teaching Chinese culture to young Chinese nationals living on the Indian Ocean island state.
The first encounter with professional Lion Dancing left them speechless. The training programs which they enrolled in allowed the students to train directly under the master, Shirgung, either during his sojourns to South Africa, or during trips to Mauritius. Master coach Liang Dong Sheng chose the dancers and musicians who would make up the South African team. This alone set a precedent. Being chosen by a man of such calibre and standing in the tightly held circles of Lion Dancing was an honour, as he was one of China's leading coaches.
Today, you can still find Wushu masters practicing the art of Lion Dancing in South Africa. You can see them showcasing their skills annually during the Chinese New Year at various events and locations around the country. And the Wushu school that made this all possible is still in existence, even after a decade. Visit their website to find out more, and remember, South Africa is truly the RAINBOW NATION.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻rainbow nation! Wow i had no clue. It makes sense though. A lot of Chinese companies dabbling in Africa.. i hope, though, that this respect goes the same for black Africans in China! I have heard reports of racism Ova there :(
Not only Chinese companies. We have a huge Chinese community who've been South African since forever. I'm sure racism is an issue in China though. They are a very traditional nation after all.