The Ribbon Dance 

The ribbon dance is called Cai Dai Wu Dao. This dance features dancers whirling long strips of silk through the air. It originated during the Han Dynasty. The story behind the dance is a man saved the Han Dynasty emperor from an assassination attempt. He blocked the sword using the silk from his sleeve.

It was traditionally performed for royalty. Large, flowy movement were accompanied by slow music. Sharp movements that made the ribbon flick and snap were done to faster music. The ribbons that were used could be any color but red was more preferred.

Fan Dance 

The fan dance began as ceremonial rituals that dates back approximately 4,000 years. The movements haven't changed much. This dance is a representation of beauty, grace, skill, tradition, and history. Fans were used as shelter from the sun and a shield from sand. They used bamboo, ivory, jade, bird feathers, plant leaves, and various other materials to make their fans.

The Lion Dance 

There are many origins of the Lion Dance. One versions tells of a dream that an emperor's dream. He dreamt of a strange creature that saved his life. His advisors stated that the creature resembled the lion. The lion dance was then commissioned the lion dance in honor of the creature that saved his life.

Lions are not original in China. Rulers from what is now known as Iran and Afghanistan sent lions as gifts to emperors. This dance dates back to the Han Dynasty. It peaked during the Tang Dynasty. The Lion Dance is performed during religious festivals. The dance was exported to Japan from it's popularity.

2 people perform the lion dance. Symbolism of the dance are the colors. There are 5 colors: yellow, black, green, red, and white. The 5 colors also represent the 5 directions of the Chinese compass. 3 main instruments used are the drum, cymbals, and the gong. The movement is synchronized to the main beat.

Through out time the lion dance represents a vehicle of dispensing all the good blessings of heaven to the whole community. It also brings a symbol of hope and good things in life.