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Celebrate the Year of the Snake with the iconic Lee’s Golden Dragon dancers

HOUSTON – As the world celebrates the Lunar New Year, one of Houston’s most beloved traditions is taking center stage: the iconic Lee’s Golden Dragon Dancer. The group is nationally known for its over-the-top and culturally relevant performances which are said to be a symbol of good fortune and pride.

Founded in 1974 by Dr. Alan J. Lee, Lee’s Golden Dragon has captivated audiences far and wide, even performing for U.S. Presidents and acting as the official dance team for the Houston Rockets. Dr. Lee’s 50th anniversary show his dedication to celebrating the Lunar New Year and sharing it with Houston’s diverse community.

Dr. Lee joined Houston Life Derrick Shore and Tessa Barrera to discuss the significance of the dragon dance, which is all about bringing good luck, driving away evil spirits, and welcoming in prosperity for the new year. A key part of the tradition involves the ceremonial “waking up” of the dragon, a process that includes painting the dragon’s eyes. Dr. Lee noted that the practice, while abbreviated for television purposes, is deeply ritualistic, as not performing it properly can result in bad luck.

Dr. Lee's Golden Dragon dances on Houston Life (KPRC TV)

Dr. Lee isn’t alone. His group of talented students and dancers go through months of preparation for the Lunar New Year. This week alone, they will be split in order to accommodate over 80 upcoming performances scheduled in the Houston area. That includes venues like the Toyota Center and local restaurants.

RELATED: Why a ‘prosperity salad’ should be on your table for Lunar New Year

In honor of the Lunar New Year, Houston Life was honored to have a live performance from some of Dr. Lee’s crew with a new green dragin that according to Dr. Lee, is the only one east of California! It took six month to create and is in Dr. lee’s favorite color and the iconic red and gold for Lunar New Year.

You can follow Lee’s Golden Dragon on social media and their website to keep up with them. Click here for some public appearances to enjoy with friends and family.


About the Authors
Heather Kansteiner headshot

Heather Kansteiner is a supervising producer for Houston Life. She has been part of the team since the show launched in 2016. She loves all things Houston and enjoys sharing what makes the city a great place to live, work and play.

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