In early November, Pingshan district of Shenzhen, Chinese mainland, was buzzing as Tsang Hoi-ping, Hong Kong Lion Dance Champion, returned to his roots to stage a thrilling showdown between two legendary creatures: the ferocious lion and the mystical Qilin.
The event, held at the Pingshan Cultural Plaza, drew hundreds of young spectators eager to reconnect with a centuries-old tradition. Under Tsang’s expert guidance, teams of lion dancers leapt, twisted, and roared, their vibrant costumes and rhythmic drumming echoing through the night sky.
But the real spectacle unfolded when the lion met the Qilin — a creature often likened to a dragon’s graceful cousin. The Qilin dance troupe spun elaborate formations, their rainbow-hued horns catching the stage lights, while lions snapped jaws and tossed heads to call forth good luck.
For many local youths, this wasn’t just a performance: it was a cultural awakening. Social feeds lit up with clips of Tsang’s signature “flying lion” leap, and neighborhood workshops reported a surge in young dancers signing up for classes. The blend of heritage and hands-on coaching made ancient art feel fresh again.
Beyond the spectacle, Tsang sees this as a bridge between generations and regions. “Lion dance is more than acrobatics — it’s a living story,” he says, referencing his Hong Kong roots and the welcoming energy of Shenzhen’s creative scene. “When young people pick up the drumsticks or tie on their masks, they’re writing the next chapter.”
As the beats faded and the final bows were taken, one thing was clear: traditional dance can still move today’s digital natives. From Pingshan’s city streets to global social media feeds, the lion and the Qilin have found a new audience, ready to carry the torch of cultural heritage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
