Traditionally, Chinese Lion Dance has been a part of Kung Fu training. A physically demanding and visually stunning performance art, Lion Dance involves two dancers working in tandem to bring the lion costume to life, and one other performer, who as the monk, leads the lion and a cast of percussionists to drum up excitement for the spectators.
Performances are most commonly given during the Chinese New Year, as a way of bringing good luck to all those who participate and watch. Other events where Lion Dance is often featured include: parades, weddings, birthdays or store openings.
Typically, a performance involves fireworks and loud drumming to both wake up the lion and scare off bad spirits. The lion is offered food in the form of greens (usually lettuce or cabbage) which the animal chews up and sprays back on to the crowd. Getting hit by the greens is considered good luck.
Classes in Lion Dance involve learning all roles of the art: drumming, dancing, acrobatics and performance. The Mo Duk Pai Lion Dance Team weekly practice takes place on Fridays from 6-7 PM at the Academy of Kung Fu in Portland, Oregon. Classes are free for all Mo Duk Pai students or $5 drop-in. People of all skill and experience levels (ages 9+) are welcome to participate!
Check out the wikipedia entry for a more description of lion dance history and performance.