Guangdong Province, March 23, 2025—In the vibrant city of Zhanjiang, a young artist is bringing a luminous twist to an ancient tradition. Li Zujie, a fourth-generation lion dance performer, is captivating audiences worldwide with his innovative glow-in-the-dark lion costumes.
Rooted deeply in the essence of the Suixi lion dance, Li grew up with the rhythm of drums and the sway of lion heads. However, he noticed a recurring challenge during nighttime performances: the intricate details and movements of the lion were often lost in the darkness.
Determined to revitalize the art form, Li drew inspiration from illuminated drums used by other teams. He embarked on a journey to integrate modern LED technology into the traditional lion dance. “I wanted to preserve the soul of the lion dance while making it more visually engaging for modern audiences,” Li explained.
After countless experiments and overcoming technical setbacks, Li unveiled his “Glow-in-the-Dark Lion.” The LED-lit costume retains the captivating charm of the traditional design while mesmerizing spectators with its vibrant lights. Despite early glitches, Li taught himself programming to perfect the synchronization of lights and movements.
Today, his luminous lions are not only a hit in China but have also sparked interest across the globe. Orders for his unique costumes are pouring in from various countries, bringing international attention to this cherished cultural heritage.
“It’s incredible to see how a touch of innovation can breathe new life into tradition,” Li said. “I hope to inspire the younger generation to appreciate and carry forward our cultural legacy.”
