Lion dances a hit with non-Chinese too
KOTA BARU: The Shing Ann Association Lion Dance troupe has transcended racial boundaries in Kelantan, as they are also invited to entertain guests at Indian and Malay weddings.
Coach Tan Kian Khong said people of all races and ages enjoyed watching the lion dance performance.
“We performed at a Malay wedding in Pasir Pekan last May, and at an Indian wedding in Kota Baru a couple of years ago.
“When we first set up the troupe 14 years ago, we only received a few invitations to perform during Chinese New Year celebrations.
“Over the years, the demand has grown steadily. The highest demand is from the commercial sector, especially shopping malls.
“This year we started performing in January, as shopping malls want to create the Chinese New Year ambience early to spark the mood to shop,” he said.
Tan said the 35-member troupe was split into two groups to meet the high demand during the festive period.
“Last year, we received more than 60 invitations to perform.
“This year, we have received more than 50 invitations so far. We usually receive more invitations as Chinese New Year draws closer,” he said.
Tan, 30, said he had been coaching for seven years.
“Usually the performers have to undergo one year’s training before they can participate in dances that require skills of varying degrees.
“In the run-up to Chinese New Year, the troupe starts thrice-weekly training in December. Each train- ing session stretches to two-and-ahalf hours,” he said.
Tan said most of the performers were students.
“Our youngest performer is 12,” he said.
Tan said the performers were driven by passion to keep the Chinese tradition alive.
“Even on the eve of Chinese New Year and on the day of the celebration, we are willing to sacrifice time with family to keep the Chinese tradition alive.
“The beat of the drum and the prancing lions add oomph to the celebration,” said Tan.
He said the fee varied from as low as RM388 for a basic show to more than RM3,000, depending on the number of equipment used.
On the eve of Chinese New Year, the troupe will be performing at the Grand Renai Hotel in the heart of the city.