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UNICORN DANCE – 麒麟舞
The Qilin is a mythical hooved creature that exists in ancient Chinese folklore and bears the characteristics of dragon, horse and the reindeer. In Chinese culture, the Qilin is a revered animal, along with the dragon,phoenix and turtle. Wich symbolises peace, auspice and longevity respectively. Unlike the dragon and lion dance, which can be seen commonly during tradional festivals or grand opening ceremonies, the Qilin dance is less common and mostly practised in Hakka culture. The lion dance, as the unicorn dance requires two performers (although only one dancer will perform acrobatic moves under the unicorn) The Qilin dance is accompanied by a drum, a cymbal, a gong and a flute (suona), which are all Chinese instruments
The Qilin does not walk upon grass for fear of harming even a single blade and thus are often depicted walking upon the clouds or water. As they are the divine and peacefull creatures, they do not eat meat. They take great care when they walk so as to never tread on a living creature and appear only in areas ruled by a wise and benevolent leader, which can include a household. Legend has it that the birth of the great sage Confusius was foretold by the arrival of a Qilin. Qilins are believed to be a symbol of good luck, protection, prosperity, succes and longevity by the Hakka people. Qilins are also a symbol of fertility and are often depicted in decorations bringing a baby to a family.
CHINESE NEWYEAR 2020
Antwerp Chinatown
HAKKA UNICORN DANCE BROUGHT TO BELGIUM
In the autumn of 1997, Yip Wai-lam and his younger kung fu brother (Geert C.) had the privilege to learn the traditional Chinese unicorn dance from the Hakka kung fu elders living in Manchester Chinatown (United Kingdom)
The local Chinese traininghall (kwoon) was called that time "Fai Hung". Many other Hakka elders from the Chan clan came together to share their knoweldge with the two eager young men. Learning the unicorn art from Chan S. P. and Chan T. S. , Yip Wai-Lam was later given the title " king of unicorn dance”.
Returning home, They both shared their knowledge with many other kung fu practitioners during that time, bringing life to the unicorn dance in Antwerp (Belgium). From then on, a lot of people had the chance to learn this wonderfull art through their full dedication to it. Teaching the basic fundamentals of the unicorn dance to their generation. How it was done back in the old days. This can only be achieved through a traditional way of teaching. Coming from the spirit and the heart…following the Chinese martial way.
Later on in the summer of 2013, Yip Wai-Lam then learned furthermore the unicorn art from his master Wong Ming. The specific character traits from the Tit Ngau Kuen fighting art in the Hakka unicorn dance. Perfecting himself in the different types that are used, such as the dragon and fighting unicorn (鬥麒麟舞).Wong Si Gong never taught others in the past, this typical way of moving with the unicorn as some might proclaim within the last three decades.
After more than 24 years Yip Sifu still moves the unicorn like he did in his younger years. Powerfull mimic, fast speed, light footwork and strong agility is what brings it to life. Therefor Yip Wai-Lam is considered by the Chinese community as the legal representative of the Hakka unicorn dance in Belgium.
2013
鬥麒麟舞
fighting unicorn dance
1997
Manchester Chinatown
2013
鬥麒麟舞
fighting unicorn dance
SMALL DRUM - 小堂鼓
Is a smaller cousin of the Chinese drum (鼓), This classical drum has a diameter of 23 cm and height 34 cm. The small drum is capable of producing solid yet elastic sounds, evoking images of war when struck harshly. Played alongside a huge cymbal, gong and flute. The small drum is used to create a festive atmosphere with fast rhythms. Four rings are affixed on the side of the drum to give you the option of mounting it on a stand or hanging it on a staff for parade. A unique pair of drumsticks handmade from the trunk of a small tree.
The drum we use is hand painted with Chinese peony (牧丹), known as the 'king of the flowers', the peony is a symbol of royalty and virtue. It is also called the 'flower of wealth and honour' (富貴花) and it is widely used to represent prosperity, happiness and peace. The painting of a bat (fu - 蝠) is a symbol of happiness and joy and can be found on top and bottom of the drum. The drum we use during our unicorn dance performances is more then 45 years old and is still kept in the famly clan.
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