The CNY festivities in Chinatown were held on Sunday 2nd February. There were stalls along Russell Street selling products like birds nest, phone card and of course property developers selling properties in inner city suburbs or in the CBD.
There were lion dances at shops in Chinatown, I caught around 5 performances on the day. This must be the biggest earning day in a lion dance troupe's business because not only do they receive fees for performing at the shop but they might also receive money from the crowd. This is especially true when they perform for restaurants.
Although there were around 2 or 3 lions performing simultaneously on Russell Street, the most anticipated performance is the big dragon Dai Loong parade at 12pm on Little Bourke Street.
We were all waiting patiently for Dai Loong to make its appearance on Little Bourke Street. The crowd lined both sides of the street. Kids perched on top of their dad's shoulders were eager to catch a glimpse of the mythical dragon which makes it's appearance only once a year, and only on Chinese New Year.
Many had heavy, professional photographic equipment. The rest were ready with their mobile phones for taking the perfect photo. Everyone, young and old were excitedly waiting for the start of the parade.
When the firecrackers started, and the distant sound of clanging cymbals, and pounding drums reached our ears, the crowd started with a renewed enthusiasm. Even the piercing heat could not sap away our energy.
When Dai Loong slowly made its way down the street, many reached out to touch the head of the dragon and take photos. One of the mothers next to me carried her child to touch the dragon head, and doing so interrupted what must have been a picture perfect moment for the photographer next to me. He complained crossly, but she cleverly answered - 'It's a long dragon, it'll be coming for a while!'
Surely it is better to experience the moment rather than placing too much focus on capturing the moment?
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