TWENTY elite dragon dance troupes from across Malaysia are taking their best moves and glowing naga to Genting Highlands, Pahang, for a chance to be crowned Dragon King.
The second edition of Resorts World Genting (RWG) National Luminous Dragon King Championship on Nov 28 and 29 once again puts the spotlight on dragon dance, combining traditional artistry with contemporary stage presentation.
Troupes will take to the stage at Arena of Stars in the preliminary round on Nov 28, with 10 finalists duking it out in the ultimate showdown on the final day, RWG said in a media statement following a press conference in Kuala Lumpur.
RWG sales, marketing and public relations executive vice-president Spencer Lee said, “What makes this championship special is the way it brings together the traditional art of dragon dance with a contemporary stage experience.
“The illuminated dragons, powerful drumming, acrobatic movements and creative props give audiences a different way to experience an art form that has been part of our cultural celebrations for generations.”
At the heart of the championship is the distinctive art of luminous dragon dance, with illuminated dragons sweeping across the stage as performers combine precise movements, intricate choreography, powerful drumming and breathtaking acrobatic manoeuvres.
The Creative Props segment is also returning, with participating troupes conceptualising and designing their own original props, incorporating storytelling, cultural themes and artistic elements into their performances.
RWG said the segment challenged teams to go beyond the technical execution of dragon dance, giving them an additional platform to showcase their creativity, craftsmanship and ability to bring a story to life on stage.
The winning team will receive RM8,000, the first runner-up RM5,000 and second runner-up RM2,000, alongside trophies and medals.
According to RWG in its media statement, the competitors include Malaysia Yahya Awal Dragon Dance Troupe; Persatuan Tarian Naga Muar; Persatuan Tarian Naga Ao Feng Gong Batu 8½ Skudai; Kelab Tarian Singa dan Naga Xuan Long Shi; Persatuan Tarian Naga Gu Miao Johor Baru; and Persatuan Wu Shu Hua Tiong Pontian from Johor.
From the Klang Valley are Persatuan Pendidikan Jasmani Friendship Wilayah Persekutuan dan Selangor; Xuan Long Dragon and Lion Dance Ampang; Persatuan Tarian Naga dan Singa Hong Teck Brickfields; Persatuan Kumpulan Tarian Singa dan Naga Kim Ying; Malaysia Khuan Loke Dragon and Lion Dance Association; and Kwong Ngai Lion Dance.
Rounding out the list are Kelab Wushu Hoon Quan, and Pertubuhan Kew Ong Yeah Dragon and Lion Dance from Penang; Pu Ti Lian She Lion and Dragon Dance Club, and Dragon and Lion Club SM Sin Min (Persendirian) from Kedah; Persatuan Kesenian Long Yi N9 (Negri Sembilan); Pertubuhan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Xiang Long Kelantan; Wushu Association Kuching (Sarawak); and Persatuan Qun Sheng Tarian Singa Sabah.
RWG said that with each troupe bringing its own distinctive style, interpretation and artistic vision to the competition, audiences can look forward to performances that combined athleticism, teamwork and stage artistry with the dazzling visual appeal of luminous dragons.
For tickets and details, visit rwgenting.com
