Students get interactive during the Lunar New Year celebration.
Lion Dance on the Ketchum Auditorium stage.
Head of School Kevin McHenry greets Lunar New Year celebration guest.
Lion Dance on the Ketchum Auditorium stage.
Members of the Lunar New Year Celebration Committe.e
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SAC marks Year of the Snake with Lunar New Year celebration
The St. Andrew’s community came together on Monday for an engaging and immersive Lunar New Year celebration hosted by the Lunar New Year Celebration Committee, a dedicated group of parents supported by our Chinese Cultural Society. The event was a spectacular display of tradition, culture, and artistry that captivated students and staff alike.
Alan Tang of Sunny Tang Martial Arts delivered an insightful and comedic presentation on the history and significance of the Lunar New Year, detailing the customs and elements that make this 15-day festival so special. This year, the celebrations began on January 29 and continue for two weeks, each day highlighting a unique tradition.
The SAC event featured a stunning lion dance performance, a highlight of the celebration. The Toronto Chinese Music School mesmerized the audience with performances of Will and Courage and Shanghai Beach, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the occasion. A thrilling martial arts demonstration also enthralled students and staff. A renowned martial artist, Alan is a Jackie Chan stunt team member and the creative force behind the martial arts choreography in Avatar: The Last Airbender. He flew in from Vancouver, where he is working on Seasons 2 and 3 of the series, to be part of our festivities.
Adding an educational touch to the event, Alan shared the fascinating symbolism behind Lunar New Year traditions, including the significance of red and gold colours, the role of lettuce in the lion dance, and how it represents health and longevity as the lion “eats” and then “spits out” the greens to bless the audience.
Students and staff also had the opportunity to enjoy a special Lunar New Year-themed lunch in Cole Hall and were surprised with red pockets, a traditional gift symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.
As we welcome the Year of the Snake, St. Andrew’s extends its gratitude to the Lunar New Year Celebration Committee, the Chinese Cultural Society, and all performers for making this event such a resounding success. Gong Xi Fa Cai!
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