Awakening Lion
Awakening Lion, a dance drama from Guangdong inspired by the traditional lion dance, has won China's top performing arts honour, the Wenhua Award. It was the only production from Guangdong to receive the award in 2025, highlighting its nationwide appeal.
Five consecutive performances were staged at Guangzhou's Hung Sin-nui Arts Centre in late January, marking the start of a new leg of its 2026 national tour. While the dance drama troupe has toured cities across China for years, the award has brought renewed attention to this blend of history, culture and modern theatre.
Awakening Lion
First performed in 2018, Awakening Lion reimagines the centuries-old lion dance for the contemporary stage. The story follows two young dancers facing loyalty, courage and personal choice, set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Sanyuanli uprising. With dynamic choreography, live music and striking visuals, it brings southern China's heritage vividly to modern audiences.
Since its debut, the drama has been performed more than 300 times in over 40 cities, including Hong Kong and Macao, demonstrating how a Guangdong production can resonate nationwide.
Audience response has been extraordinary, with many attending multiple shows; one devoted viewer said he had seen it 31 times. As he recalled: "Each performance feels different, always fresh. I've gradually learned more about the lion dance tradition and recommend it to family and friends. Over the years, the drama has undergone multiple updates, evolving continuously, and I feel I've grown along with it."
Awakening Lion
After Guangzhou, the 2026 tour will cover 13 cities across China, including Xiamen, Shenzhen and Shanghai, with more stops to be announced. Each performance introduces Guangdong's lion dance to new audiences, highlighting the broader appeal of regional culture.
The show's popularity illustrates that "Guangdong Goods Global Reach" is not only about products; Guangdong's cultural creations are reaching increasingly wider audiences.
Reporter | Li Muzi
Photo | Guangzhou Song and Dance Theater
