With the aim of enlightening local children as well as disseminating lion dance, a significant piece of Lingnan culture, MGM is rolling out “The 7th Junior Lion Dance Training Programme” this summer.
Starting in July and opening for registration on May 24, this popular seven-week training programme is a good introductory learning opportunity for children to explore Chinese culture and strengthen their cultural confidence. It also trains children to be good team players with self-discipline, as well as getting physically fit through a series of fun-packed training activities.
The “Junior Lion Dance Training Programme” is co-organised by MGM and Mak Chi Leong Dragon & Lion Dance Association Macau, and supported by Cultural Affairs Bureau (ICM), Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO), and Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ). Coming to its seventh edition, the training programme has trained over 380 young lion dance masters.
During the seven-week programme, trainees will learn about the history of lion dance, basic movements, the use of different props and musical instruments that go with the dance. Trainees who complete the programme will perform and showcase their dance moves at the programme’s graduation ceremony taking place in the MGM Theatre. The ones with outstanding performances may proceed to the “MGM Lion Dance Training Programme”, where they get to exchange with lion dance troupes in the mainland and perform at major events in town.
“The 7th Junior Lion Dance Training Programme” opens for enrolment on May 24, welcoming children between 5 and 8 to join. Interested individuals can fill in the application form on MGM’s official website, then send it by email to liondance@mgm.mo along with a valid copy of their ID and medical check report issued by a registered doctor by 11:59 p.m. on June 6. 80 applicants will be selected via computer balloting, and successful applicants will receive confirmation calls and an SMS on June 8.
The programme officially starts on July 5. For further information or enquiries, please call (853) 8802 3833. – mgmpr
This undated handout photo provided by MGM shows children learning the lion dance.
