Bandar Seri Begawan - Lion dance teams from Brunei Darussalam have been invited to participate in the first Sarawak Open Lion Dance Championship, to be held at the MBKS Stadium in Kuching on November 24 and 25.
Championship organiser, the Chinese Martial Art Association, said at least 14 teams have confirmed their participation. Invitations were also being extended to Sabah and Indonesia.
"The championship is organised in conjunction with `Visit Malaysia 2007` and not only do we want to attract tourists to Sarawak, we also want to preserve the unique Chinese cultural heritage," said organising chairman Dennis Jee.
Jee said the event would see lion dancers prance on six-metre high poles, and perform graceful acrobatic movements.
"Lion dances are gaining popularity internationally. In Malaysia, it is already recognised by the government as part of its national heritage," said Jee, adding that there will be a similar event to be held at the upcoming Macau Asian Indoor Games.
Bruneians who wish to attend the championship can obtain tickets by calling either one of the following numbers: 016-8888588, 0198275900, 016-8666099 or 016-8821230.
Part of the proceeds from the ticket sale would be donated to local charities.
Source: www.brudirect.com (18 Oktober 2007)
