They're Great, and That's No Lie-on!

   Another memorable day out at Straits Quay ("Penang's 1st Retail Marina").  I was there on business, actually, but just stumbled upon this fascinating Chinese Lion Dance competition.  There were about 14 different groups from all over Malaysia who came to compete.  I was told they were neighborhood groups, though some seemed to be from schools.  They were judged Olympic style, with four guys lifting up number flipcards with scores like 8.5 on them.  I don't see how they could possibly judge them, though.  They all were just great to me.

Chinese Lion -- Gaudy & Athletic

Japanese Lion (Shishimae)

     One thing about Chinese lions is they're NOT subtle or understated in any way.  How about this pink & purple one?  Now compare it to this very traditional Japanese one.  There's a world of difference.   They both serve different purposes, so it's not fair to compare them.  But the Chinese ones are sooo over-the-top, and far more athletic.  They have two strong fellows inside who do amazing tricks, at least in a competition like today's.  

Practicing the Upright Move

    Here were two young lads "practicing" for my benefit.  Once you see what's inside, you appreciate the actual performance so much more.  For example, here is the same pair doing their thing while balanced on a bunch of flowerpots.  Awesome, isn't it?   

Actually doing the Upright Move

And then they'd turn around and face the other way!!!

   When you consider that this is the same two fellows, the back one balancing on two flowerpots while bent over, you can begin to appreciate the strength and coordination, not to mention cooperation of these lads.  Then, when you see them carefully move around, reversing their position on the pots, moving in circles on them, all the while making the animal look realistic and full of personality. . . . well, it was a totally impressive sight.  

   


The shoes worn by these lion dancers are all fancy and covered with fake fur.  But they must have some kind of grip on the bottom to allow these guys to do what they do without falling.

Lion Dancers' Shoes Airing out in the Sun

And when I think that I could have missed it if I hadn't happened to go out there today.  Well, lesson learned -- never stay home on a weekend in Penang. 

                                                       You might miss something good!