Tie Shi
Tie Shi is a traditional Chinese lion dance and one of the four great lion dances of Hebei, along with the Zhu qiang, the Jin Wang lion dance, and the Woo Fu lion dance.
The origins of the Tie Shi lion go back over 500 years when it was reportedly imported from Henan Province. The most popular version of the Tie Shi lion has two performers at once, both dressed in bright vivid red and gold costumes, with elaborate hairstyles and ornate headgear to match.
The Tie Shi lion dance is often performed during religious ceremonies and festivals. It has been used for centuries to bring good luck, ward off evil spirits and avert danger. It is believed that when performed correctly, the lions will roar loudly and can bring positive energy to a location.
The Tie Shi lion dance is considered to be one of the most difficult of all lion dances. The two lion heads move separately, so the two dancers must coordinate each other’s movements while spinning and twirling with the lion heads in sync. The performers must also have an excellent memory, in order to remember the various patterns and moves the lion should perform.
The Tie Shi lion dance is also performed for entertainment purposes. It is a colorful and exciting performance for all to enjoy. It usually begins with the lions entering the street and congregating in front of a temple. From this point, the lion dancers move around energetically, showing off their masks and colorful costumes.
No matter where the Tie Shi lion dance is performed, it is sure to capture the attention of the audience. It is a treat for the eyes and a joy for the ears. It is a great way to pay respect to Chinese traditions and to show appreciation for its long history.
