P100,000 grand prize up for grabs in lion dance tilt at GH Mall

A grand prize of PHP 100,000 awaits the champion team in the much-awaited Lion Dance Competition, happening on January 19, 2025, at the East Wing Atrium of GH Mall in celebration of Chinese New Year. This event, organized in partnership with Pawchester and the Huang Lion & Dragon Dance Group, promises to be a spectacular showcase of tradition, artistry, and skill as it ushers in the Year of the Wooden Snake.

Not just a competition

More than just a competition, the event highlights the cultural and symbolic significance of the lion dance within the Chinese community.

Gaius Uy, founder of the Huang Lion & Dragon Dance Group, explains the deeper meaning behind the performance:

Answering to CinemaBravo’s question during the press conference, Uy said, “Yung culture ng lion dance, sa culture namin sa Chinese, nagtatanggal ang lion dance ng bad luck, at ang dragon ang nagpapasok ng luck sa business.” (The lion dance, in our Chinese culture, removes bad luck, while the dragon brings in luck for businesses).

The presscon was held at Pawchester pet park, salon, and café, located on the 5th floor of GH Mall in Greenhills, San Juan.

Uy also emphasized that the event is also about fostering community and creating connections.

“Ang goal naman [ay] to have fun at para magkaroon ng maraming friends sa industry ng lion dance.” (The goal is to have fun and to make more friends within the lion dance industry).

Showcase of talent and creativity

The competition will feature ten lion dance teams, each putting their own twist on the traditional performance. Audiences will be treated to a vibrant display of acrobatics, colorful props, and rhythmic drum beats that bring the lion dance to life.

With five categories—Snake, Centipede, Bridge, Drunken, and Scorpion—the event promises a variety of performances that blend tradition with innovation.

The stakes are high, with the top team earning the P100,000 grand prize. The second placer will receive P80,000, and the third placer will take home P50,000. These substantial prizes mark a first for lion dance competitions in the Philippines.

To be hosted by KC Montero, the Lion Dance Competition 2025 will take place from 10 AM to 5 PM on January 19, 2025, at the East Wing Atrium of GH Mall. It is free for all to enjoy.

Celebrate the start of the Year of the Wooden Snake with this exciting event that combines cultural tradition, community spirit, and thrilling performances. Cheers for the new year!