Last week, our Junior School students were invited to a vibrant and exciting display as they watched the annual Lion dance performance. The event is always a highlight for our youngest learners from Pre Kindergarten to Year 6, bringing joy and cultural learning to both the Wellard and Calista Campuses.
The Lion Dance has been an integral part of Chinese culture for thousands of years. It is often performed during significant events such as weddings, new store openings and during various festivals and celebrations. The lion itself is a symbol of strength, wisdom and good fortune, and it is believed to chase away evil spirits while ushering in happiness, longevity and good luck.
One of the most anticipated performances takes place during the Chinese New Year, where the lion is said to bring prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Our students were excited as the lions danced energetically, showcasing both skill and tradition.
In addition to the exciting performance, the lions also distributed oranges and lettuce to the audience. In Chinese culture, oranges symbolise gold and wealth, while lettuce represents prosperity and good luck. The more lettuce one catches, the more good fortune they are believed to have for the year to come.
This lively tradition offered a wonderful opportunity for our Junior School students to engage with an important aspect of Chinese culture, while enjoying a spectacular show.