Lion Dance
LION DANCE IN ROTTERDAM
Mok’s Lions Rotterdam
Experience the vibrancy and cultural significance of Lion Dance, a traditional Chinese performance that symbolizes prosperity, good luck, and the dispelling of evil spirits. At Mok’s Lions Rotterdam, we train both the art and the athleticism required to bring the lion to life, through powerful movements and rhythmic drumming.
Join us in preserving this beautiful tradition while enjoying a fun and engaging way to stay fit and connected with the community.
SIFU MOK
Sifu Oi Ming Mok, born in Hong Kong, moves to Rotterdam in his teens where he meets his Sifu Lam who is also from Hong Kong. For many years they perform lion dance with the West-Kruiskade Lion Dance Association Rotterdam. After teaching the basics of lion dancing in a Rotterdam based Kung Fu school for a few years, in the year 2018 Sifu Mok decides to share his full knowledge with a new generation of dancers to ensure his beloved Lion Dancing lives on.
Mok’s Lions Rotterdam trains weekly and performs at Chinese New Year celebrations, weddings, and other joyous occasions.
LION DANCE
Due to the age of the tradition of lion dancing, there are many stories about its origins. For a long time, word of mouth was the means of sharing knowledge and information, though references to the tradition have been found in ancient texts. What we do know for sure is that during the Song Dynasty (960 AD-1127 AD), Wushu and Lion Dancing were already connected. Traditionally Lion Dancing was performed by Wushu schools best atletes. It was particularly performed during religious festivals. The lion bestows blessings of wealth and happiness to the community and dispels evil forces.
MUSIC
For Lion Dancing performances, a solid music group is essential. They provide the rhythm for the lion and an extra pair of eyes to guide the lion during the performance. The instruments used for performances are drums, cymbals and gong. Lion Dance enthusiasts with musicality can partake with or without the physical strain of dancing.
WUSHU
Wushu provides the basics needed for Lion Dancing. Practicing both disciplines is fun and gives the dancer an advantage in terms of movements and stamina. Mok’s Lions has a close relation with Jianlong Wushu – also based in Rotterdam. At this day and age however, Lion Dancing is no longer exclusively for Wushu athletes, but rather for all enthusiasts.
TRAINING INFO
Mok’s Lion Rotterdam training :
Monday 20:00h-21:30h
Gymzaal Palmentuin, Rotterdam IJsselmonde