Lion Dance
The CYSM boasts the largest number of active lion dance performers in Melbourne and owns the largest variety of lions, display weapons and lion dancing equipment. The CYSM also has major performance runs in many suburban areas during the Chinese New Year celebrations. At other times, lion dancing teams can be engaged to perform at any community or charitable events and at corporate functions. Outside Melbourne, the CYSM also regularly performs in country Victoria including Bairnsdale, Warnambool, Inverloch, Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo and Beechworth. In 1990 the CYSM represented Australia at the International Lion Dance Festival in Malaysia.
The CYSM is also always willing to share its knowledge and experience and has on occasion conducted workshops at schools and for other chinese associations so that they may also become involved and gain an awareness of lion dancing and other cultural activities.
While the CYSM is a society involved in many facets of the chinese culture, its operation revolves around the active members of the Lion Dance Team because its members are all involved in secondary CYSM activities. While every member perfoms in the lion dancing during the chinese new year, each is also involved in, for example, the Dragon Boat Racing Team, the CYSM Soccer League or in the organisation of The Miss Chinese Community Quest.
If you wish to join the CYSM Lion Dance Team or book a performance, email liondance@cysm.org for more information.