During the Lion Dance practice today, our dance instructor incorporated the switching of the tail and head positions in the dance. As I mentioned in earlier blog, holding the lion’s head during the dance for long periods of time takes a lot of strength. This need for strength for long periods of time is tiresome. Even though I assumed I would be able to hold the lion for a long period of time, I learned quickly I would not be able to hold it without for a long period of time.
Today, Kwan (our instructor), taught us how to switch from the head position to the body position. We were able to do this by passing the head off by the head turning and the body staying stable. Through this technique, we were able to switch positions to save energy.
Even though we are still working on this technique, the group has gotten much better at the lion dance through our practices. Kwan has been made many comments complimenting the group about how many improvements we are making. As we have learned a new technique each week, I have felt that I have been able to improve on other techniques, ultimately improving all aspects of the lion dance.