The Southern Style Lion Dance and The Modern Lion Dance
1 min readSouthern Style Lion Dance
The southern style Lion Dance has become an extension of the Chinese Martial spirit，and is always performed by students of Kung Fu.Following the Lion Dance，you will see forms，or choreographed routines，performed by the Lion Dancers.The earlymartial artists，studying in Buddhist temples，imitated the fighting styles of theanimals in nature that they observed such as the tiger and the crane，the primarystyles taught at the AMAS.Other styles include the leopard，praying mantis，eagle，snake and dragon.The forms you will see imitate the movements and characteristics of these animals.
Modern Lion Dance
The lion dance is most commonly associated with the Chinese Lunar New Year，although it is performed throughout the year at many celebrations，holidays and festivals.In the Chinese tradition，the lion dance is essential to ensure harmony and prosperity.In its early history，lion dance was performed by actors and dancers.
Today，this ancient custom is mainly kept alive by martial artists from traditional Kung Fu schools.Due to numerous championships in Asia and North America，lion dancing has now reached new heights in its popularity.Traditional lion dancing has evolved into a spectator sport replaced by dare-devil acrobatic feats，rivaling any circus performance.There is even a movement to include lion dance competition as an 0lympic event.
