Thursday, January 29, 2009

The Dragon Dance

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Like a true living mythical monster, the Chinese Dragon danced its way into the heart of Manila Chinatown to highlight the Lunar New Year celebrations.

In Chinese culture the Dragon is said to bring good luck and prosperity. It is also a symbol of power, dignity, strength, fertility and wisdom. Although the Chinese Dragon may have a frightening appearance, it has, however, a benevolent disposition. In Imperial China, it is a long time favorite symbol of the Emperors, and many palaces have dragon designs and representations in them.

The Dragon Dance is performed by a team of highly-skilled dancers. The number of dancers depends on the length of the Dragon itself. The dancers carry the Dragon (made of fabric) on poles as it swirl, twist, and chase the giant pearl it is forever guarding. The dance must be carefully choreographed as a mistake by even one of the dancers can spoil the performance. I can say that all the Dragon Dances I have seen in Manila Chinatown are as perfectly performed as any can be.

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