Story by Danny Ooi
Pix by Alissala Thian
THE clashing of cymbals and the beating of Chinese drums broke the quietness of George Town when 108 lion dance troupes hit the streets as part of the Federation of Penang Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Association’s 39th anniversary celebration.
Joining them were Chingay performers, who held the spectators in suspense when they balanced the giant flag pole on their heads, shoulders and mouths.
The performers were among members and representatives of 100 associations which took part in a 2km-long procession from Love Lane to Esplanade.
The celebration kicked off with the procession from Love Lane to Chulia Street, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, Farquhar Street and Light Street before ending at the Esplanade.
Others in the procession were wushu exponents, Silambam performers, stilt walkers, silat performers, a school marching band and war drummers.
The highlight of the day was the performance by the nine dragon dance troupes whichfeatured a 61m-long golden dragon that added grace and
colour to the event.
The event was launched by Governor Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas.
Also present were exco for Local Government, Traffic Control and Flood Mitigation, Chow Kon Yeow, exco for Youth and Sports, Women, Family & Community Development, Chong Eng and Federation of Penang Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Association chairman Datuk H’ng Ban Choon.
Chow in his speech said for 39 years the Federation of Penang Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Association has created a magnificent record not only for Penang but also for the country.
“For instance, wushu has shown a great achievement by having won medals at international meets.
“Wushu exponents have also broken China’s monopoly at various international tournaments,” he added