Dragon Style Lion Dance and Kung Fu
August 12, 2pm–3pm
DROAR Stage in front of the Stanton House
Yip’s Dragon Style has been performing the traditional southern Chinese lion dance since 1974. Sifu Yip studied the lion dance under Grandmaster Leung Kam Kwong 梁鑑光 of Hung Gar Kung Fu, known as the King of Lion Dancing in Hong Kong. The lion dance is a rich traditional part of the Chinese heritage. The lion dance has strong ties with the traditions of the kung fu school. Therefore, we teach this traditional folk art to deepen one’s understanding of Chinese culture. Our students learn teamwork and develop communication and leadership skills with others in performance. Students acquire skills in the movement of a lion costume that consists of a head and tail. Performers develop an appreciation of the percussion instruments that accompany a lion dance, including the drum, gong, and cymbals. Lion dancers require the skills of a kung fu practitioner, including footwork and stances. Lion dancers develop upper body strength, motor coordination, and stamina to maneuver a lion.
Dragon Style龍形拳 Kung Fu is a fierce and protective system that utilizes hand techniques and primarily low kicks on the opponent(s). Practitioners spend a great deal of time learning unique body mechanics to develop maximum power. Each technique is done with purpose and without any flowery movements in the context of both self-defense and combat. Students learn a variety of techniques that include punches, kicks, claws, grabs, and locks that use various parts of the limbs for offense and defense. In sum, Dragon Style practitioners relentlessly press against an opponent(s) with an unremitting chain of attack. Empty hand forms, partner drills, and weapons are organized to give students a roadmap to develop proficiency in the system. Additionally, students gain health benefits from physical activity which is an excellent cardiovascular workout.
