LION-HEADS AND LION-DANCES : A STUDY OF A CHINESE TRADITIONAL CULTURAL ACTIVITY IN ITS SINGAPORE SETTING

Abstract

The lion-mask maker manufactures the head-gear used in lion-dancing. His trade is often considered to be vanishing. Such a view may be portrayed by the relatively small number of existing traders. An attempt will be made to analyse the role of social, economic and political influences in the demise of this trade. Lion-dances are characterised by their splendour, colour, animation and spirit. They are significant in heralding auspicious occasions such as Chinese New Year, 'commencement of new businesses', and National Day celebrations. Its perpetuation lies mainly with Chinese Associations and more recently, schools and Community Centres. This Exercise begins with a brief introduction of the nature of the study. It will continue with an account of the mask maker and the importance of his geogrophics. The process of manfacture and the cultural significance of lion-masks will then be highlighted. After an analysis of the future of the trade, the art and origin of lion-dancing together with an attempt to tracing the changes in the lion-dancing scene will be described. The study concludes by locating the perpetuation of lion-dancing in Singapore.