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| Chung Wah Lion Dance |
The Chung Wah Lion and Dragon Dance Troupe has been part of the Chung Wah Association since 1984. The troupe however, can trace its origins from earlier times. Students from Christmas Island formed the W.A. Lion Dance Troupe in the late 1960’s and performed at restaurants, private functions and cultural shows all around the Perth region. The Chung Wah Association soon indicated its interest in including lion dance as one of its activities, and soon the two groups merged. Through the support and sponsorship of the Association, the troupe purchased new lions and equipment which were used throughout the Chinese New Year celebrations for subsequent years.
After becoming part of the Association, the troupe has been based at Chung Wah Hall in Northbridge. Presently, the troupe trains every Sunday afternoon. Unlike other lion dancing groups around Perth, the troupe does not have a Si Fu nor do we practice kung-fu or wushu. All lion dancing skills are taught by senior members to the more junior members of the troupe. This ensures that all members have an equal say in all activities, and that everyone can have the chance to learn the art of lion and dragon dance regardless of their background.
The troupe also runs a children’s lion dance troupe at the Parkwood Chinese School, run by the Association. This troupe made its debut at the 75th Anniversary Celebration of Chung Wah. Many former members and current seniors all started off in the Parkwood troupe, moving up to the main troupe in Northbridge once they were older.
While troupe members are exclusively trained in lion dance, the troupe attempts to promote and develop other skills. Senior members are encouraged to take leadership roles within the troupe, teaching and guiding other members. The troupe has its own committee, organising everything from performance schedules to sponsorship deals. Every member is expected to contribute and help out where they can, regardless of age. By using this approach, members will be able to develop skills and habits that will be useful even outside lion dance.
What does the future hold for the troupe? The troupe has ambitions to return to the Genting International Lion Dance competition. We also have plans to once again add dragon to our repertoire, and to perhaps to form a 24-season drum squad.
Ronald Foo, Lion Dance Troupe Captain |
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