Business & Tech
Ringing in the Chinese New Year at Orchid
Lion Dance helps usher in 4709, Year of the Rabbit.
They have performed before the Dalai Lama at a Buddhist Temple and before the FBI.
Last weekend, the team from East Meadow’s Ling Nam Siu Lum Kung Fu Academy performed the traditional Lion Dance at Orchid in Garden City to ring in the Chinese New Year, 4709, the Year of the Rabbit.
The restaurant celebrates Chinese New Year in a big way, with decorative displays and the elaborate dance routine. The 20 members of the Ling Nam Siu Lum team performed the 25-minute dance at each of the four seatings Feb. 5-6.
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This ancient Chinese tradition is performed to chase away evil spirits, and bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
The Lion Dance itself consists of three parts. It begins with the Lion bowing three times to the audience. Next, the sleeping lion is awakened and cautiously looks about as it clears its eyes. Once awake, it begins the search for food. Three bows conclude the dance.
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Its strong stances and fast, sharp movements characterize the Southern Lion Dance. A Kung Fu practitioner’s prowess and experience are demonstrated and put to the test during a Lion Dance, since it is performed not only as a ritual but also as a training device. The dance is used to develop and maintain intense concentration while under stress.
“The Lion Dance teaches us so much about Chinese culture,” said Nate Levin, one of the dancers. “The Lion at first blesses the restaurant, bows to the cash register to bring prosperity to the establishment.”
Members train for several months for this dance, which features martial arts moves. “Some of the moves of the Lion Dance show how you generate power,” Levin said.
Tim Prohinsie, another member, said the group is in such demand because of the authenticity of their style. They have been performing at Orchid for at least two decades. “We look forward to this every year,” he said during a break Saturday night.
Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar. It falls halfway between the winter solstice and vernal equinox. Each year is named after an animal. Red envelopes with cash are given to children for good luck and prosperity.
The Ling Nam Siu Lum Kung Fu Academy has performed the Lion Dance at weddings, birthday parties and bar mitzvahs.
