Stepping into an auspicious role

Tan (left) and Lim take time off for lunch in between shows. During the festive season their day can start as early as 6am. This troupe from Bukit Mertajam sometimes travel as far as Kuala Lumpur for shows.

First we had lion dances. Then dancing on poles. Now, adding to the merriment of the Chinese New Year celebrations are the appearance of cosplayers playing the part of gods from Chinese mythology.

The God of Prosperity usually takes centrestage and prerequisites include having the right height, size and a way with words.