Rabbit Rocker

There is an old tradition in China of dancers wearing masks to resemble animals or mythical beasts -- such as dragons, fish, or phoenixes -- while dancing to mimic the movements of these creatures for good luck and fortune. These dances are an integral part of Chinese New Year celebrations and weddings, but also many cultural and religious festivals. The large elaborate masks are often made of paper-mache over a bamboo frame, and then beautifully painted and adorned with layered cloth, feathers, and fur. The masks are accompanied by equally colorful costumes, and the dancers shake, leap, and twirl to the vigorous rhythm of powerful drum beats.During the Chinese New Year, troupes of dancers visit houses and shops in the community to perform a dance called “plucking the greens” which will bring good fortune to that home or business. The “greens” were originally lettuce hung on a pole to challenge the dancers; but now the “greens” can be fruit, seafood, or even beer. If the dancers can “