This international competition is only held every two years.
History
There’s no clear historical record of the origins of the Lion Dance. It’s surmised that it coincided with the first importation of lions to China, as they are not indigenous to China. They came to represent power in ancient times. Nowadays, they are used to ward off evil spirits
The Lion Dance has become an internationally recognized Chinese performing arts. Lion Dance performances are held around the world. They are especially popular during the Chinese New Years. In fact, many local Lion Dance troupes will offer to enter your house to dance in order to protect the family from evil. Normally, a token donation is customary for the ritual.
Competition
This year’s competition will be held November 16-17, at two venues around Kaohsiung. There will be eight teams this year. The teams represent Taiwan, Malaysia, China, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Click here for more information in Chinese.
Tickets
Ticket prices range from 500 to 1,000 NTD. Tickets can be purchased here.
November 16 @ 2 PM
Place: Kaohsiung International Swimming Pool
November 17 @ 2 PM
Place: Kaohsiung Arena
Don’t forget to subscribe to My Kaohsiung Facebook page, the only place for information on Kaohsiung!
Cover Photo: Creative Commons, Modified IAW CC License (Flickr: Kurt Bauschardt)
Additional Photos and Information Source: 高雄市政府文化局 Kaohsiung City Government Bureau of Cultural Affairs