WRITTEN BY Laura Kuo
Chinese New Year marks the time of the year when everyone is dressed in flaming red, listening to festive songs and lighting up firecrackers. The origin of Chinese New Year can be traced back to thousands of years ago. It all begun with a fierce battle against a mythical beast called “Year” that was known to eat and harm people. “Year” was afraid of red, fire, and loud noises. Thus, people initiated a festival at the end of every year to prevent the beast’s arrival.
Bird-eye view of the opening ceremony. All faculty and students wore red to celebrate.
Energize performance by Sophomore students.
Today, people still celebrate Chinese New Year with wonderful spirit—so did KAS. Students and teachers together carried out intriguing activities for the celebration that brought a perfect beginning to the Chinese New Year break ahead. Immediately after lunch, students assembled in the courtyard with excitement, establishing an exhilarating atmosphere.
Right after the rumbles of firecrackers, muscular performers came running to the center of the courtyard from the sides, each carrying a razor-sharp Chinese traditional sword. The performers danced across the courtyard with their swords shining. Their intricate moves fit perfectly to the rhythm of the cheery background music. Everyone was impressed by the majesticity of the performance with their widened eyes and amazed expressions shown on their faces.
Dragon dance had everyone amazed.
In traditional Chinese culture, lions are considered rare and extraordinary; moreover, they are a symbol of authority. During Chinese festivals, people like to imitate the appearance of lions and conduct a series of dance moves resembling the movements of lions, also commonly known as the Lion Dance. After the sword performance, the lion dancers appeared on stage one after another. Two lion props with elongated bodies and vivid colors were supported by six strong men. The lions swirled around with cadence, each having a pair of huge, round eyes. At last, the performance ended with two lions in a standing position with well written couplets in each of their mouths. Students were certainly hyped up by the Chinese New Year spirit brought by the Lion Dance.
When it comes to Chinese New Year, we certainly cannot forget about the puppet shows. A short puppet show was held by a guest and a student from eighth grade. The show was based on the tale of Chinese Valentine’s Day (Qixi Festival)—a tragic love story between a cowherd and a weaver. The two lovers were separated by a river, and could only meet on July 7th every year on the Lunar calendar; July 7th later becomes known as Qixi. Not only did the tone and storyline of the show charge the entire space with amusement, they also better enhanced our knowledge regarding the origin of Qixi Festival.
Soon following was Z club and dance club’s wonderful performance of the Dance Queen dance routine by EXO, a highly popular K-Pop band. The dancers blasted every move enthusiastically and with great coordination. Then, Cadenza club took the floor with a mashup of four Chinese songs, consisting of both pop and traditional, in celebration of the Chinese culture.
The day ended with a lively performance by the elementary kids. Watching the little figures performing on stage with all their might built up more warmth and happiness for the day. At last, we all brought home with us smiles and satisfaction. It was yet another unforgettable Chinese New Year.
