Subject: Mailing List for The Pride: Lion Dance @ UVA

Description: The Pride is the first Lion Dance CIO at UVA. The dance entails performers collaborating inside a lion
costume to mimic the movements and characteristics of a lion. We train in the traditional styles but
also incorporate contemporary influences. There can only be two performers in a lion at any given
time, but it is common to substitute during a performance. The lions collaborate with a drummer to
synchronize their movements with the intrinsic rhythms. The drummer is usually a trained percussionist
that can execute elaborate beats in an often vigorous style on the drum, cymbals, and gong. The
"Laughing" Buddha is known to be acrobatic and often adds comic relief to the intense performance.
The Buddha oftentimes wears a mask and plays, taunts, and lead the lions to their destinations. The
lion dance performers train weekly to master more difficult skills and to perfect the moves they have.
The lion dance performs as guest performers. Such occasions include culture shows, festivals, weddings,
and other celebrations.