This year's Spring Festival Celebration at the Department of East Asian Studies at the University of Toronto was a joyous occasion, uniting students and faculty in a colourful showcase of talent, tradition, and cultural diversity.
The highlight of the afternoon was the Student's Talent Show from 2 to 3 pm, featuring an impressive lineup of performances. Students harmonized in a touching singing of "Yi Jian Mei," led by Tian Su, Xiao Chuanen and fellow students, and were treated to a delightful cooking display by Jackie Pang and Anna Alcorn, demonstrating the art of making dumplings, a cherished symbol of the Spring Festival. The Violin Performance by Katherine Chen, Kaye Toews and Annabelle Zhang, along with a mesmerizing juggling act by Sun Yi Min, added to the vibrant atmosphere, showcasing the multifaceted talents within the East Asian Studies community.
Following the talent show, the celebration reached new heights with an exhilarating Lion Dance Workshop by the Wai Mo Lion Dance Team from 3 to 4 pm. Students had the unique opportunity to delve into the history and craft of lion dances. The lion dance is a traditional dance form from Chinese culture and other Asian countries in which performers dressed in lion costumes mimic the movements of lions to bring good luck and wealth. Usually performed during the Spring Festival and other traditional, cultural, and religious festivals, the lion dance is typically operated by two dancers, one controlling the head and the other controlling the back end of the lion, as demonstrated in the attached photos. Moreover, students had the unique opportunity to tried on the lion heads and the stances themselves and mastering the intricate stances. These hands-on experiences enriched their understanding of this traditional art form.
In the spirit of joy and happiness, the Spring Festival Celebration left a lasting impression on all who attended. The event fostered a sense of community within the East Asian Studies Department, creating an atmosphere of happiness and friendliness. As attendees experienced the charm of Chinese culture through the talent show and the mesmerizing lion dance, the celebration became a vibrant testament to the cultural richness within the University of Toronto's East Asian Studies community.
Paintings and calligraphies created by students to celebrate the Year of Dragon. The authors from left to right are Paula Liu, Christina Wang, and Toko Michiok
Students are singing "Yi Jian Mei (A Spray of Plum Blossoms)"
Katherine Chen, Kaye Toews and Annabelle Zhang mesmerized the audience with their violin and piano performances.
(Video) The electrifying energy of the Lion Dance Team as they dazzled the crowd with their lively performance.
(Video): Students learn to lion dance
What celebration can be called Chinese without food?