Hawaiian has organised for traditional ceremonial ‘Dragon Dance’ and ‘Lion Dance’ performances at its Perth retail shopping centres as part of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Originating in China, both dragon and lion dancing forms an important part of the New Year celebrations, with their origins dating back to over 1,000 years.

The Chinese believe that lion dancing during Chinese New Year will chase away any bad omens and bring joy and good luck.  The lively movements of the lion dancers, colourful decorations of the lion costumes, coupled by the noise of the drums and cymbals, are thought to frighten away the evil spirits and bring good luck to businesses and homes.

Both traditional dances will be performed by the WA Chin Woo Athletic Association, a non-profit Chinese performing arts group dedicated to promoting Chinese cultural arts to the community.

The performances are scheduled to take place as follows:

Saturday 31 January 2009

Park Centre, Victoria Park                 9.00am

Bassendean Shopping Village            10.30am

Noranda Shopping Village                  12.30pm

The Mezz, Mt Hawthorn                     2.00pm

The Colonnade, Subiaco                    3.30pm

Saturday 7 February 2009

Carillon City, Perth                                                                                                                              12.30pm

Claremont Arcade                                                                                                                                2.30pm

Patrons visiting any of Hawaiian’s shopping centres during these times can expect to be treated to a cultural display of energetic entertainment, spectacular costumes and vibrant music.