Lion dance during Tet (Vietnamese New Year)

(DTO) Lion dance has long been a folk art and the "soul" of Tet culture, carrying the aspiration for a new year of peace, prosperity, and good fortune.

Lion dance demands a high degree of skill and a deep emotional connection from the performer.

To control the vibrant lion head, performers need not only muscular strength but also to completely "transform" themselves into the spirit animal.

Every small movement, such as blinking, shaking the head, or leaping high, must fully convey the range of emotions: from majesty and anger (nộ) to gentleness and joy (hỉ), or curiosity while stalking prey and relaxation while resting.

Each dance is a story, where the lion is no longer an inanimate toy but becomes a living entity, embodying the essence of one of the four mythical creatures (dragon, lion, turtle, phoenix).

In the minds of people in the East, the appearance of the unicorn symbolizes good fortune.

According to local beliefs, the sound of drums and gongs and the vibrant dance symbolize the removal of misfortunes from the old year; wherever the lion dance goes, it brings wishes for "favorable weather, peace and prosperity for the nation."

For many people, hearing the sound of the lion dance drums fills their hearts with excitement. From the elderly to young children, everyone puts aside their work and flocks to the streets to witness the skillful acrobatic performances firsthand.

Today, the art of lion dance has made great strides. No longer limited to spontaneous street performances, it has developed into a professional performing art form on a grand scale.

The combined performances of lions, dragons, and unicorns create a powerful visual spectacle, showcasing a spirit of unity and collective strength.

Lion dance competitions and festivals are continuously organized, becoming a unique platform for cultural exchange and contributing to the preservation and promotion of Vietnamese identity.

No matter how modern society becomes, the sound of the lion dance drums still holds a unique place in the spiritual life of Vietnamese people every time Tet (Lunar New Year) comes around. It is not only entertainment, but also a lesson in martial spirit, perseverance, and optimism.

As long as the drums still resound and the vibrant red and yellow colors fill the streets, the essence of Tet remains intact in the hearts of every Vietnamese person.

DUONG UT

Source: https://baodongthap.vn/mua-lan-ngay-tet-a237101.html