STORY: Young Namibian dancers master Chinese dragon and lion dances
SHOOTING TIME: Feb. 16, 2024
DATELINE: Feb. 18 2024
LENGTH: 00:02:05
LOCATION: Windhoek
CATEGORY: CULTURE

SHOTLIST:
1. various of Namibian dancers performing at the Chinese Spring Festival in Windhoek
2. SOUNDBITE (English): KULA RODRIGUEZ, President of University of Namibia Dance Society
3. various of Namibian dancers performing at the Chinese Spring Festival in Windhoek

STORYLINE:

During the Chinese New Year, a group of young Namibian dancers studying at the University of Namibia (UNAM) achieved a stunning feat by mastering the intricate art of dragon and lion dances.

Over the past eight months, this dynamic ensemble devoted themselves to rigorous training, presenting a performance that seamlessly integrates the Namibian spirit with the rich traditions of Chinese culture.

SOUNDBITE (English): KULA RODRIGUEZ, President of University of Namibia Dance Society
"As a professional dancer, I would actually recommend people to consider joining dance, because it's very different. And when it comes to the Chinese performances in particular, I would recommend you to watch, in order for you to get a good idea and a good grasp of the Chinese culture. Because it takes a lot, in order for you to be properly represented correctly and you wouldn't want to feel misrepresented by someone who's not part of your culture. So we try our best to always be on point."

To master various Chinese dances, Rodriguez and other professional dancers, versed in various dance genres, conducted extensive research on Chinese culture. Their initial performance with the Confucius Institute at UNAM paved the way for 12 subsequent captivating performances, including engagements with the Chinese business community.

Meanwhile, Rodriguez said some of their plans include participating in the world championships, which are coming up in June.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Windhoek.
(XHTV)