The Lion Dance : Perfroming Arts of Thonburi Area

Abstract

This article studied the background, patterns and elements of the lion dance in the Thon Buri area. Results were that the lion dance was introduced during the reign of King Taksin the Great after immigration of a significant number of southern Chinese to the region. Lion dance performance skills were spread to multiple groups that have long existed in Thon Buri District. The dance may be divided into three performance characteristic patterns: ground level, face to face and on the plum blossom pole. Performers may be of any gender or age. Costumes are in two styles: feathers and face-to-face. Performance accessories include plum blossom and bamboo poles. Comic characters include a smiling Chinese uncle and his wife. Most lion dances comprise individual sets, such as the lion dance on the blossom pole. Musical instruments used in performance are referred to as a Mahori band, including a drum, cymbals and gongs. The lion dance recently developed into an international sports activity as cross-cultural adaptation to preserved and transmit its culture.