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We appreciate your interest in our performances and mission! This section provides insights into our events, collaborations, team membership, and what to expect.
If you have further inquiries, we’d love to hear from you!
Event and Performance Insights
Event and Performance Insights
What kind of events do you participate in?
We primarily perform at cultural festivals, community celebrations, nonprofit events, and educational programs, with a strong focus on cultural outreach and public engagement. Our team has shifted away from private bookings, such as paid performances for weddings and birthdays, to prioritize events that align with our mission of promoting cultural awareness and serving the community.
Are your performances family-friendly?
Yes! Our performances are family-friendly and suitable for all ages. We strive to create an engaging and exciting experience that celebrates culture, tradition, and community. Whether at festivals, schools, or public events, our lion dance performances are designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
What should audiences know before attending a performance?
Attending a lion dance performance is an exciting and immersive experience! However, please keep these pointers in mind:
Lions love to interact! They may playfully engage with the audience as part of the tradition. If a lion gets close, feel free to enjoy the moment—it's all in good fun!
Surprising movements: Some moves include jumps or quick changes in direction. Please remain out of the performers’ path so they can move safely.
Loud noises: Lion dance is accompanied by energetic drumming, cymbals, and gongs. If you have sensory sensitivities, consider bringing ear protection.
Respect the lions: Please don’t touch or interfere with the lions unless invited! The costumes are delicate, and the dancers need full control.
Capture the moment: Photos and videos are more than welcome, but be mindful of your flash—it can distract performers.
Most importantly, have fun! Lion dance is a celebration of culture, energy, and good fortune, and we’re excited to share it with you.
Cultural Significance & Education
Cultural Significance & Education
What is the history and significance of lion dance?
Lion dance is a traditional Chinese performance dating back over a thousand years, meant to bring good luck and drive away negativity. The dance, inspired by real lions, is full of energy and symbolism, with movements that express curiosity, strength, and playfulness. Accompanied by loud drumming, it’s performed at celebrations like Lunar New Year, festivals, and cultural events to unite communities and honor tradition.
For those interested in learning more about lion dance history and cultural significance, check out these resources:
How does lion dance differ from dragon dance?
Lion dance features at minimum two performers mimicking a lion, symbolizing strength and protection, while dragon dance involves around 10 performers manipulating a long dragon costume, representing good fortune and prosperity. Both dances are energetic and vibrant, but the lion dance is often more focused on agility and acrobatics, whereas the dragon dance highlights displays of grandeur.
Do you offer workshops or educational sessions?
Yes! We offer both lion dance and Taiwanese culture-based workshops, often paired with performances. Our lion dance workshops include opportunities to learn the history of lion dance, as well as hands-on activities to try basic movements, drumming, and stepping inside the lion. Our Taiwanese culture workshops feature calligraphy, fortune drawing, and more.
These sessions are great for schools, cultural events, and community programs—reach out if you're interested!
How does lion dance contribute to cultural celebrations?
Lion dance plays a vital role in cultural celebrations by symbolizing good luck, prosperity, and the warding off of evil spirits. It’s often performed during major festivals like Lunar New Year, weddings, and community events. The dynamic movements, drumming, and vibrant costumes bring excitement and unity, and our team trains to preserve and share our cultural traditions with diverse audiences.
Collaborations & Community Engagement
Collaborations & Community Engagement
Do you collaborate with other dance or cultural performance groups?
Yes! We love collaborating with other dance and cultural performance groups. Whether it’s for a special event or a creative fusion performance, we’re always open to exploring new ways to share and celebrate culture together.
How can organizations or community groups engage with your team?
Organizations or community groups can invite us to perform at events, host workshops, or partner on cultural programming. Please reach out through our contact page.
We're always excited to connect and bring the energy of lion dance to new spaces!
How can individuals support or stay connected with your work?
Individuals can support and stay connected with our work by attending our performances, participating in our community events, sharing our work on social media, and following us on social media for updates. For more information, visit the "Support Us" page!
Team Membership and Training
Team Membership and Training
Who is eligible to join your team?
Currently, we welcome students who have been enrolled for at least two years in member schools under the Michigan Chinese Educators Association (MCEA) to join the Michigan Lion Dance Team.
The list of these member schools can be found on the MCEA’s official website: https://www.michiganchineseschool.org/MCEA/
Do I need prior experience to participate?
No prior experience is necessary! We train our members from the ground up. Whether you're interested in dancing, drumming, or helping backstage, there’s a role for everyone.
When and where do you practice?
Regular practices are held every Saturday afternoon at Ward Church, located at 40000 Six Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48168.
What kind of training is involved?
Training includes learning lion dance footwork, acrobatics, drumming techniques, and teamwork drills. We also emphasize physical fitness, rhythm coordination, and cultural understanding. Advanced members may also participate in choreography and creative staging.
How do you prepare for performances?
We rehearse before each show, often adding extra practices as needed. Each practice includes full run-throughs, costume fittings, and sound coordination. We also adapt each performance based on the venue and audience, ensuring each show is unique and engaging.
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