National Culture Heritages in Guangxi (Dance)

Tianyang lion dance of the Zhuang ethnic group

The lion dance of the Zhuang people in Tianyang county, South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region is famous for its high degree of difficulty. Tianyang lion dance performances include a knifepoint dance, a quincuncial piles dance, and a bridge dance.

The Tianyang lion dance has many routines, rich programs, and exquisite skills. They integrate martial arts, dance, and acrobatics. The dances are generally used for festival celebrations, New Year's greetings, weddings, military participation, and festive gatherings, often conveying congratulations.

On May 23, 2011, the Tianyang lion dance of the Zhuang ethnic group was approved by the State Council to be listed as national intangible cultural heritage.

The Tianyang lion dance of the Zhuang ethnic group. [Photo/people.cn]