String lion dance

One of the highlights of the celebrations was the amazing string lion dance, in which a group of performers use strings to manipulate a large model lion.

The performance, for which Huotong is famous, is similar to a puppet show, with the performers using ropes to make the lions sit, stand, shake their heads, catch balls and even change facial expressions.

However, manipulating the giant models is no mean feat, and the puppeteers require an extraordinary mix of strength and skill to control the 10- to 20-kilogram lions.

A string lion dance troupe perform a stunt known as “lions play with balls” in Huotong town in NIngde city, Fujian province, on Feb 28. [Photo by Lin Shanchuan/Xinhua]

The value of the string lion dance has been recognized by the Chinese government, and the performance was one of the first art forms to be added to China’s list of national intangible cultural heritage, in 2006.

The government has also authorized the funding to set up a string lion dance center in the town housing a rehearsal space and a workshop to produce and maintain the large model lions, among other facilities.

The town is now making efforts to promote the lantern fair and the Huodong string lion dance as tourism attractions in order to boost the town’s profile and development.

Local residents crowd around to watch a string lion dance, a local folk performance, on an old street in Huotong town in NIngde city, Fujian province, on Feb 28. [Photo by Lin Shanchuan/Xinhua] [Photo by Lin Shanchuan/Xinhua]