Good outcome for first Dragon Art Camp
MIRI: The first Dragon Art Camp here ended yesterday with a positive outcome.
Wai Sheng Lions and Dragon Dance Association chairman Vincent Chee Tez Tack said the camp, which started on March 19, showed there are many young talents.
“Unlike the lion dance, dragon art is a very different dance that requires more people in a team.
“While the locals are more familiar with the lion dance, which we can easily see dozens of lion dance troupes out and about performing during Chinese New Year, there are very rare dragon dance troupes available here.
“Hence, one of the reasons we organised this camp was to discover and nurture young talents,” he said.
The camp involved 55 participants, including a team from Limbang.
Chee said the camp also sought to introduce the luminous dragon.
“Compared to the ordinary dragon, luminous dragon is best at capturing the attention of audiences. The movement is very attractive and it tells a very strong story about the dragon art and culture,” said Chee.
Camp coach Dragon Art International and Malaysia Dragon Art Federation founder master Ek Eng Guan said there is a need to continuously promote the dragon dance.
“The modern world is slowly taking over the traditional culture. It is causing the younger generation to become less appreciative of their own roots, art and culture.
“The appreciation towards Dragon Art among the Chinese is declining, which has me worried about the future of our own culture and traditions,” said Ek.
He was happy with the passion demonstrated by participants.
“They may be beginners with no knowledge in Dragon Art and dance.
“But I could strongly feel that they have the passion, humility, high motivation, and strong teamwork. In fact, these are the criteria that will bring you further in anything you do,” he added.
Ek has promoted and founded Dragon Art troupes in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, China, Macau, Germany, USA, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.
“My next focus would be to help Sarawak to boost their spirit and interest in dragon dance and hope that there will be a competition specially organised to promote dragon dance,” he said. the camp