Foshan, the cradle of lion dance culture, recently became the stage for a cross-cultural exchange. During a street interview, a father-daughter duo from Portugal shared their fascination with the centuries-old art form. "The energy reminds me of bullfighting festivals back home," said the father, while his teenage daughter added, "It\'s like a living history lesson—but with acrobatics!"
Local performers emphasized lion dance\'s enduring role in festivals like the Lunar New Year, blending martial arts, music, and symbolism to convey stories of courage and unity. Footage of Foshan\'s lion dance academies reveals rigorous training regimes preserving this UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage.
The interaction highlights Asia\'s soft power at work—a vibrant tradition bridging continents and generations. For travelers and diaspora communities, such cultural touchstones offer both spectacle and connection to shared human experiences.
Reference(s):
Street interview: Have you seen lion dance before (Episode 1)
cgtn.com