Characters
Did you think that lion dance only consists of lions? Think again! Here, you will get to find out more about the different characters in lion dance and the different types of lions.
Elements of Lion Dance
A typical lion head is constructed of a framework that consist of bamboo and wire, with brightly coloured paper fleshing out its shape. Within the head are bamboo levers and pull-strings that allow the lead dancer who carries the lion head to manipulate the lion's mouth, eyes, and ears.
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Usually, there are two dancers whom perform as the lion: one dancer carries the head, another becomes the lion's tail. The lion head is characterized by quick, lively movements, and often the lion head is raised higher above the dancer. The footwork used by the lead dancer incorporates all of the various kung-fu stances and kicks. It is the dancer under the lion head who control the mouth, ear, and eye movements, establishing the lion's basic attitude.
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northern vs southern lion dance
Southern Lion Dance
The Southern style, is popular performed in Singapore, originated in Guandong, China.
There are two main styles of Southern Lion : the Fut San or Fo Shan and the Hok San or He Shan both named after their place of origin. Other minor styles include the Fut Hok which is a hybrid of Fut San and Hok San created in Singapore by Kong Chow Wui Koon in 1960s.
These different lion types can be identified from the design of the lion head.
Fo Shan lion has bristles instead of fur, and is heavier than the modern ones now popularly used.
All traditional Fo Shan lions have pop-up teeth, tongue, and eyes that swivel left and right. On the back are gold-foiled rims and a gilded collar where the troupe's name may be sewn on. It has a very long tail with a white underside, and is often attached with bells.
The designs of the tail are also more square and contain a diamond pattern going down the back. It has a high forehead, curved lips and a sharp horn on its head.
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The He Shan style lion is known for its richness of expression, unique footwork, impressive-looking appearance and vigorous drumming style.
The He Shan lion performers were invited to perform in many places within China and Southeast Asia during celebratory festivals. The style became very popular in Singapore; the He Shan lion acquired the title of "Lion King of Kings", with a "king" character (王) added on its forehead.
The Singapore Hok San Association made further changes by modifying the design of the lion head, shortening its body, and creating a new drumbeat for the dance.
Northern Lion Dance
The northern school, practised in Beijing, is more acrobatic, with the lion balancing on balls and see-saws while being led by a pugilist dressed as a “warrior” into performing stunts such as prancing and leaping. The northern lion usually has golden or red hairy fur.
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The Northern lion dance is often performed as a pair of male and female lions in the north of China. Northern lions may have a gold painted wooden head, and shaggy red and yellow hair with a red bow on its head to indicate a male lion, a green bow to represent a female lion.
Northern lions resemble Pekingese or Fu Dogs, and its movements are lifelike during a performance. Acrobatics are very common, with stunts like lifts or balancing on a tiered platform or on a giant ball. The dance of the Northern lion is generally more playful than the Southern Lion.
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Let's watch a Northern Lion Dance performance!
Other characters
Laughing Buddha
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Often, the lion is accompanied by a few laughing Buddhas also known as, Funny People.
The Buddhas wear a painted mask with a large smile and is usually dressed in either a traditional Kung Fu uniform or in a monk’s robe.
This character acts as the middle men between the audience and the lion. To do so, the Buddhas will interact with the audience while teasing the lion once in awhile.
The Laughing Buddhas serves as a purpose of guiding the lion to its “food”. The Buddha’s movements are often based on Kung Fu stances and acrobatic and gymnastic moves.