CENTRAL VALUES OF LION DANCE
(HonG DE EIGHT VIRTUES)

弘展技藝   發揚武德

忠
Loyalty

Teaching loyalty to the younger generation is vital. This means fostering dedication to their country, organization, cultural work, and mentors, which builds a strong and united community.
Once we have acquired the knowledge and skills of Lion Dance, it is vital to uphold our faithfulness to all these pillars. As disciples, we must seek the guidance and approval of our Master, expressing loyalty and honesty in our intentions, especially when considering the establishment of a new Lion Dance school.

正
Righteousness

We must remain balanced and impartial, focusing on promoting the true art of Lion Dance. It's essential to learn and preserve the authentic characteristics, correct movements, and traditional procedures of the art, staying true to its original principles.  Deviating from these original principles risks turning the Lion Dance into a distorted and disrespected art form, leading to a failed performance that could bring embarrassment and ridicule from the audience.

毅
perseverance

Success demands perseverance. Embrace hard work, stay diligent, and push through fatigue—only then can true success be achieved. This is equally true in mastering Lion Dance, where endurance and commitment are key. Despite setbacks, failures, or repeated losses, we must persist until the end. Without endurance and willpower, our mission cannot be completed. True sportsmanship is defined by the struggle and perseverance from start to finish.

勇
Courage

Courage is essential, along with mental readiness, a fighting spirit, and a willingness to sacrifice for the art of performance. Routine, consistent training builds both skill and confidence, leading to a fearless lion dancer. Always remain responsible and fully committed to your troupe, as these qualities are vital for mastering and preserving the tradition.

智
Wisdom

When confronted with a difficult “Cheng” or a tricky setup, it’s crucial to stay calm and think carefully. Relying solely on physical strength or rushing to grab the “green” won’t always work. Bravery and courage alone aren’t enough; you must apply your wisdom. Learn from the Masters, coaches, and teammates, and value their advice and experiences. By thinking things through and using the knowledge gained from others, you can navigate and overcome even the toughest challenges.

誠
Sincerity

Sincerity is essential when learning Lion Dance. When we are sincere, Masters, instructors, and teammates are more willing to share their knowledge. A successful performance requires perfect coordination—the head, tail, drum, gong, and cymbals must work in harmony to create a seamless experience for the audience. A team built on sincerity forms the foundation of a lasting troupe.

和
Harmony

Harmony is essential in all aspects of life. When we work with our masters, instructors, and teammates, it’s important to collaborate happily and peacefully, fostering a supportive learning environment. Living in harmony is a key factor in achieving success. Understanding the value of unity—among dancers, drummers, cymbals, and gongs—and supporting one another, regardless of ethnic background, contributes to a peaceful world. Harmony is especially vital in today’s multicultural society.

禮
Courtesy

Courtesy embodies respect and humility, shaping both our behavior and interactions. By embracing these values, we cultivate harmony and strengthen the unity that lies at the heart of Lion Dance. By honoring these practices, we not only preserve the cultural richness of Lion Dance but also promote mutual respect, prevent misunderstandings, and elevate the art to new heights of excellence and unity.