Reverie Youth Lion Dance
Reverie Youth Lion Dance Troupe 築夢青少年舞獅團 is an innovative lion dance performance group based in Irvine, California. From Lunar New Year celebrations to community festivals, school events, cultural showcases, and business milestones, our troupe brings powerful drum rhythms, dynamic choreography, and auspicious vibes to every event.
Lion dance is one of the most iconic and beloved art forms in Chinese culture. In addition to the Chinese cultural sphere, lion dance is also very popular in Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
Beginning in the Tang Dynasty over a thousand years ago, the modern lion dance includes both Northern and Southern styles. The Southern lion dance, from Guangdong province, is now the standard style practiced internationally and is the style performed by Reverie Youth Lion Dance.
The lion dance costume does not resemble actual lions because lions are not native to China. The first live lions came to China during the Tang Dynasty as diplomatic gifts from the Shahanshah of the Persian Sasanian Empire to the Tang Emperors. The Chinese word for lion (shi, 獅) is probably derived the Persian word for lion: šer. Thus, the mythical, exaggerated appearance of the lion dance costume is based on the lion dance practitioners' imagination rather than actual lions.
Lion dance blends athleticism, music, storytelling, and community spirit into a vibrant performance that uplifts audiences of all ages.
Our youth lion dance troupe empowers young performers to step into a living tradition that has inspired communities for centuries. Through high‑energy movement, rhythmic teamwork, and cultural storytelling, students discover the joy and pride of bringing the lion to life.
We welcome dancers of all backgrounds and experience levels. Training focuses on strength, coordination, discipline, and collaboration—skills that will support students in all their future endeavors.
From Lunar New Year celebrations to school assemblies and cultural festivals, our troupe brings excitement, color, and heart to every performance. Each roar, leap, and drumbeat reflects the dedication and spirit of our young performers.
