Chinese Lion Dance 1
The Chinese lion dance, associated with ceremonies ranging from solemn to joyous, has a long history and, according to legend, is designed to drive away evil spirits. The dance was performed Feb. 8 at Penn State Harrisburg by members of the Wong People's Kung Fu School.
IMAGE: Penn StateChinese Lion Dance 2
With origins reaching back more than 2000 years, the lion dance reflects an integral part of Chinese and Southeast Asian (Vietnam, Korea, Japan and Malaysia) cultures. The dance was performed Feb. 8 at Penn State Harrisburg, by members of the Wong People's Kung Fu School.
IMAGE: Penn StateChinese Lion Dance 3
In the traditional custom of cai ching, or plucking the greens, the lion eats an offered vegetable, such as lettuce, then spits out the greens in a colorful arrangement, believed to bring good luck and fortune.
IMAGE: Penn StateChinese Lion Dance 4
The movements of the lion dance are traditionally synchronized with beating drums, cymbals and gongs. Members of the Wong People's Kung Fu School performed the dance during a visit to the Harrisburg campus Feb. 8.
IMAGE: Penn StateChinese Lion Dance 5
During the traditional lion dance, the accompanying loud music, along with firecrackers and the lion's movements, were believed to ward off evil.
IMAGE: Penn StateChinese Lion Dance 6
The Wong People's Kung Fu School performed traditional Kung Fu, focused on achieving self defense by developing self control, self discipline, humility, perseverance, and a good work ethic, during their visit to Penn State Harrisburg on Feb. 8.
IMAGE: Penn State