Last Updated on 2020-01-31 , 9:48 pm
Every Singaporean knows what lion dance is.
In fact, we see them every single Chinese New Year.
Because everywhere the lion dances, you’re going to get fame and fortune (theoretically).
In fact, Singapore has our very own lion dance movie featuring the boys from Ah Boys To Men.
Now, if you think you’re awed enough by lion dance performances, and couldn’t be more impressed with them, think again.
Because A Lion Dance Performance Without A Lion Is Even More Mesmerising
Recently, Shanghaiist posted a video of a lion dance duo, dancing without a lion.
The video really makes you appreciate the art of lion dancing even more, especially the the guy behind (the bum).
He had to be bent down at the waist most of the time, and he supports the weight of the frontman easily, even when jumping up onto the poles.
But pay attention to the part where the bum-man had to get onto the poles himself.
We got sick of rewinding the video so we made a repeating gif of his actions.
Qing Gong exists.
And The Video Went Viral Immediately
In less than 15 hours, it had garnered over 300K views and 3.6k shares.
Most of the focus, of course, placed on that jump.
Some have attributed it to our race.
Seriously, though, if it’s really because of this, we’ll probably dominate the NBA right now.
Singaporeans and Malaysians get in on the action too.
An insider explained about the mechanics of the move to clueless viewers:
But these people got it right, though.
It’s still a treat for the eyes.
You can view the full video below:
Lion Dance in S’pore Taking a Hit
Back in 2017, TNP ran an article on the lion dance economy in Singapore.
They revealed that lion dance performers are getting fewer bookings due to the uncertain economy.
Lion dance troupes that TNP spoke to reveal a 10 to 30% drop in bookings.
But that’s not the biggest problem.
They’re Running Out of Young Talents Too
According to an article by Rice Media, lion dance troupes are finding it hard to find young talents.
Most of the troupes are people in their thirties, with their own jobs and lives.
It doesn’t help that lion dance has a bad reputation, believed to have ties to secret societies, and produce bad kids.
But who knows, maybe, this video might just ignite the love for lion dance in the younger generation.
But meanwhile, let’s just appreciate the hard work that goes into making this jump possible and watch this epic jump again.
His Standing Broad Jump must be over 300cm.
**All images from Shanghaiist Facebook Page unless otherwise stated.
Would you be jailed for being half-naked in public? Well, the answer will shock you. Seriously. Watch this to the end and you'll understand:
