About Us
Brown Lion Dance is a student group devoted to the performance of the ancient art of Chinese Lion Dance (Chinese: 舞獅). Since 1996, we have brought this exciting mix of martial arts and dance to celebrations and occasions of all kinds, both at Brown and in the wider Providence area.
Photos and Videos
A close-up video of a Lion Dance performance for the Muslim Girl Scouts of Rhode Island.
Brown Lion Dance with the Muslim Girl Scouts of Rhode Island
Tradition
Lion dance has been a part of Chinese culture for thousands of years dating back to the Han Dynasty (205 BC to 220 AD) where it was primarily performed during religious festivals. Today, it continues to be performed at special events such as Chinese New Year, weddings, and the opening of businesses where it is believed to bring happiness, and good fortune.
The lion is made up of two dancers, one handling the head and one handling the body. While the second dancer imitates the body of the lion, the first dancer can operate the eyes, ears, and mouth to evoke facial expressions. The lion dances to the beat created by the ensemble of large drums, cymbals, and gongs. A teaser may also take part in the performance by teasing the lion with a fan or a large ball.
Events
Brown Lion Dance performs for a wide variety of events, both on Brown's campus and off. In the past we have performed at Chinese culture shows, dance exhibitions, parties and celebrations of all kinds, as well as charity events. We are proud to be an important part of Brown's annual Baccalaureate Ceremony.
Our shows can be geared towards more formal occasions, or can be adapted in a lighter style for younger audiences or party atmospheres. Lion Dance has a beauty and magic that appeals to all kinds of audiences.
If you'd like to book a performance, please email us at liondance@brown.edu.
Our performances for the Spring 2009 semester:
- 2/6/09: Li Xi New Year's Banquet
- 2/8/09: Families with Children from China New Year's Celebration
- 4/3/09: Performance at Providence College
- 4/10/09: Brown Hawaiian Club Lu'au
- 5/23/09: Brown Baccalaureate Ceremony
Practices
We currently hold practice on Mondays from 7:00–10:00 in the Alumnae Hall Auditorium.
Recommended attire for practice is loose, exercise appropriate clothing including non-slippery pants and sneakers/tennis shoes.
Contact
If you have any questions or comments, please email us at liondance@brown.edu.
© 2009 Brown Lion Dance