In Zimbabwe, lions are not only a symbol of power and superiority, but also a popular ecotourism attraction in the country's numerous game parks. This makes the lion dance interesting for Zimbabwean audiences.
"When I was wearing the lion dance costume, I just felt excited. I just felt great, something special; I just felt like a lion, a real lion," Zimuto said. "I want to go to China to perform if there is an opportunity or a chance for us."
In December last year, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization inscribed "Spring Festival, social practices of the Chinese people in celebration of the traditional new year" on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
According to Zimuto and his team, participating in cultural events such as the Spring Festival satisfies his curiosity about Chinese culture, and engaging in cultural activities such as the lion dance is an effective way of bridging Chinese and Zimbabwean cultures through arts.
"From now on, you can either call us Blackstar Acrobatics or Lion Dance Troupe," Zimuto said.
