Lion Dance (舞狮) is a form of traditional dance in Chinese culture and other Asian countries in which performers mimic a lion's movements in a lion costume to bring good luck and fortune. The lion dance is usually performed during the Chinese New Year and other Chinese traditional, cultural and religious festivals. It may also be performed at important occasions such as business opening events, special celebrations or wedding ceremonies, or may be used to honour special guests by the Chinese communities. There are two main forms of the Chinese lion dance, the Northern Lion (北狮) and the Southern Lion. Seen here is the Southern Lion (南狮) and everyone is trying to pet it for good luck.
Dragon Dance (舞龙) is often performed during Chinese New Year. Chinese dragons are a symbol of China's culture, and they are believed to bring good luck to people, therefore the longer the dragon is in the dance, the more luck it will bring to the community. The dragons are believed to possess qualities that include great power, dignity, fertility, wisdom and auspiciousness. The appearance of a dragon is both fearsome and bold but it has a benevolent disposition, and it was an emblem to represent imperial authority. The movements in a performance traditionally symbolize historical roles of dragons demonstrating power and dignity.
After enjoying both the lunch and culture performance, it is time for the Lucky Draw . Our canteen boss had sponsored two gift hampers, one each for the two lunch sessions. Fret not if you did win the hamper, as each one get a Goodies Bag containing a pair of mandarin oranges and a S$2 4D ticket.
Lion & Dragon Dance info from here and here.
