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Embracing the ancient art of lion dance
As the Lunar New Year approaches, a lion dance team in Vancouver’s Chinatown is making waves online, captivating a younger audience with their innovative approach to an ancient tradition. Chau Luen Athletics, a prominent martial arts and lion dance club, has harnessed the power of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to breathe new life into the art form.
Their strategy? A mix of humor, creativity, and cultural pride aimed at engaging Gen Z and millennials.
Social media as a bridge to tradition
The team’s Gen Z social media squad has been instrumental in this revival. By crafting content that resonates with younger viewers, they are not only preserving the tradition of lion dance but also making it relevant in today’s digital landscape.
For instance, one viral post featured a lion working out on a treadmill, humorously captioned, “Our lions have been training hard to bring you their best performance yet for the Year of the Snake.” This playful approach is a stark contrast to the often serious nature of traditional performances, showcasing a more relatable side of Kung Fu and lion dance.
Building community through cultural engagement
In an interview, instructor Andrew Wong emphasized the importance of inclusivity in their outreach. “It’s kind of just building our community up as more fun and inclusive rather than strict and like gatekeeping,” he stated.
Wong, who began his journey in Kung Fu and lion dance at the age of eight, understands the significance of bridging generational gaps through cultural practices. His experiences reflect a broader trend where younger practitioners are not only learning the art but also contributing to its evolution.
Connecting with heritage
Rémi Landry Yuan, another member of the team, expressed his excitement about sharing and participating in a culture with such a rich history. “It’s exciting being able to share that culture and also be a part of that culture,” he noted.
This sentiment is echoed by social media manager Chantelle Lui, who takes pride in the team’s ability to reach a global audience. “We’ve had more than one video hit a million views, which is just kind of amazing to think about that many people watching,” she shared.
The future of lion dance in Vancouver
With about a quarter of Chau Luen Athletics’ lion dance team members being Gen Z, the future of this cultural practice looks promising. Head instructor Michael Tan, who has been practicing martial arts since he was 14, believes in the importance of passing down these traditions. “If I’m not helping pass it along, who will, right?” he remarked. The team is set to showcase their skills at the Chinatown Spring Festival Parade, further solidifying their role in the cultural tapestry of Vancouver.
