Lion dance has been in Singapore since the 1930s and is closely connected with the Chinese clans that organised the first troupes, with some of these clans hailing as far back as the 1800s. Chronicling the history of lion dance, therefore, is akin to chronicling the pioneering years of our nation. However, few books document the history of this art form in Singapore.
This book is the first of its kind to introduce the history, culture, sport and performance art that is lion and dragon dance in English. It will cover the types of dances and costumes, symbolisms and values embedded in the lion and dragon dance communities. It will tell the stories of Singaporean lion and dragon dance pioneers which have never before appeared in any English publications. It will also feature interviews with current leaders in the community and share our hopes for the future of the art form in Singapore.
Contents:
Acknowledgements
Foreword
History:
Lion and Dragon Dance Lore
Advent of the Lion and the Dragon
History of Lion and Dragon Dance in Singapore
Pioneers Remembered
Lion and Dragon Dance Leaders Speak
Being a Trainee
Lion and Dragon Dance Values
Culture:
Lion and Dragon Species
Crafting a Lion and a Dragon
The Lion and Dragon Play
The Companions of the Lion and Dragon
The Lion and Dragon Bands
Symbolisms in Lion and Dragon Dance
Sport:
Training
The Future:
Lions and Dragons at Large
Lions and Dragons of the Future
Index
Readership: Lion and dragon dance enthusiasts, historians, culture enthusiasts, Chinese people, martial arts enthusiasts; Overseas lion and dragon dance troupes. Overseas Chinese. Key Features:
This is the only book chronicling Singapore lion and dragon dance in English
Features writeups of lion and dragon dance pioneers which have never been recorded before in any English publications
Documents the dying artform of lion and dragon dance in Singapore