DRESSED as the God of Prosperity “riding” a plush horse symbolising this year’s Chinese zodiac animal, retired chef Lim Poh Hang is quite a sight as he poses for photos with passers-by while wishing them a prosperous Chinese New Year.
Despite the heavy makeup and layered costume, Lim, 64, appeared at ease, greeting everyone and even sharing insights about the coming Year of the Horse at Armenian Park in George Town, Penang.
“It only takes me half an hour to do my make-up and I only wear the God of Prosperity costume and horse gear once I am at an event venue.
“It does not take much time to get dressed but it does feel hot after a while.
“However, seeing the excitement and happiness on people’s faces especially the children, makes it all worthwhile.”
Lim said he grew up watching and learning about Teochew opera performance from his grandparents.
“It sparked the passion in me. I used to perform part-time while working as a chef, but now that I am retired, I am pursuing my passion for performing full time.
“It has already been over 13 years of ‘playing dress up’ and I am enjoying every second of it,” he said with a chuckle.
Lim added that during Chinese New Year, he would join a group of over 20 people for cosplay performances, embodying various Chinese gods including variations of the God of Prosperity.
“People invite us to perform and take part in their celebrations, be it for businesses or events.
“This year, 10 of us will put on the slip-on horse costume as it symbolises this year’s Chinese zodiac sign.”
Lim said the group would even travel as far as Johor, Sabah and Sarawak for performances during the Chinese New Year.
He added that this year, he was inspired to wear the slip-on horse costume after watching a Teochew stage performance involving “horses”.
“I sourced multi-coloured horse costumes made of a plush material.
“It was surprisingly easy to find and reasonably priced.”
Lim who has been performing since last month, said, “There will be no celebrations for me until after all my commitments are completed.
“Every year, we perform on the eve and on the first day of Chinese New Year.
“We have bookings up until a few weeks after the festive season.
“We only celebrate the Chinese New Year once the demand dies down.”
