Chinese Lion Dancers
Mak Fai Washington Kung Fu Club
Colors of Freedom Fourth of July Parade
11 a.m. Friday July 4, 2008
Colby and Wetmore avenues, Everett WA 98201
Performing artist: Chinese Lion Dancers from Mak Fai Washington Kung Fu Club
(parade entrant)
Description: Chinese lion dancers and martial artists led by Mak Hin Fai Sifu (Kung Fu
Master), one of the most well-known Chinese martial art instructors in the United
States
Hometown: Seattle
Origin: The Lion Dance originated thousands of years ago in China and symbolizes
prosperity and peace. This unique form of martial art is customary during
Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations. Mak Fai has studied martial arts for more
than 30 years and now heads the Mak Fai Washington Kung Fu Club.
Quick facts:
Mak Fai has thousands of students worldwide in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore,
Germany and the United States
Mak Fai teaches a style of Kung Fu called Choy Lay Fut, which incorporates fist,
hand and leg movements
Teams have performed at many large local events such as the Safeco Field
opening and the Folklife Festival opening
Dance requires strong waists and feet
Lion head weighs more than 20 pounds
Participants:
Two lions
15 dancers
For high-res photos:
Kate Reardon, City of Everett Public Information Director
office 425-257-8687 — cell 425-418-0936 — kreardon@ci.everett.wa.us