Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association

For those in Washington seeking to experience the vibrant energy of traditional Chinese culture or looking for authentic martial arts training, the Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association is an indispensable local treasure. Established by Grandmaster Mak Hin Fai in 1974, this association has become Seattle's premier lion dance troupe, performing hundreds of captivating shows year-round. More than just performers, Mak Fai is deeply committed to enriching and promoting lion dancing in the Greater Seattle area, meticulously preserving this ancient tradition by teaching younger generations within the community. Beyond the mesmerizing dances, they also offer traditional Chinese martial arts lessons, specializing in the Hung Sing Choy Lay Fut style Kung Fu. This blend of dynamic performance and disciplined martial arts makes Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association a unique and highly valued institution for cultural enthusiasts and martial arts practitioners alike right here in Washington.

Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association is strategically located at 606 Maynard Ave S #107, Seattle, WA 98104, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of Seattle's historic Chinatown-International District (CID). The CID is a vibrant and culturally significant neighborhood, making it a fitting home for an organization dedicated to preserving Chinese traditions. Its central location offers excellent accessibility for residents across Seattle and beyond. The CID is a major transportation hub, well-served by public transit options, including numerous King County Metro bus routes, the Link light rail (with a station conveniently located in the CID), and the Seattle Streetcar. This makes it incredibly easy for students and event organizers to reach the association without the need for a private vehicle. For those who drive, parking can be found in various public garages and on-street spots within the district, though it's always advisable to plan ahead during busy times. The very presence of Mak Fai in such a culturally rich and accessible neighborhood underscores its commitment to community engagement and the widespread sharing of Chinese heritage.

The Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association offers a comprehensive range of services, catering to both entertainment needs and martial arts education. Their offerings showcase their dedication to cultural preservation and community engagement:

• Professional Lion and Dragon Dance Performances: They are widely recognized as Seattle's premier troupe, offering captivating performances for all occasions. This includes:
  • Two Lions/Multiple Lions: Suitable for various events, from small gatherings to large spectacles.
  • Drunken Lion: A fun and entertaining performance involving a wine jug prop, telling a story.
  • Bench Performance (Bridge): Symbolizing overcoming obstacles, where the lion gets on benches to reach its "food" (Chang).
  • High Pole: Represents "advancing upwards each step," often used for business prosperity. Mak Fai is noted for performing this acrobatic feat.
  • Jong Performance: A modern and high-energy act where lions leap from pole to pole, demonstrating acrobatic movements. Mak Fai is the only group in Seattle known to perform this.
  • Thunderous Drum Show: A powerful drum set performance, excellent for drawing crowds or kicking off events.
• Traditional Chinese Martial Arts Lessons: Specializing in the Hung Sing Choy Lay Fut style Kung Fu, suitable for all ages. These lessons aim to teach self-defense, discipline, and physical fitness.
• Self-Defense 101 Workshops: Introductory-level training that incorporates Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu applications within real-world self-defense situations, emphasizing community building and safety.
• Cultural Education: Through their performances and training, they actively promote Chinese culture and keep traditions alive by teaching younger generations.
• Booking for Events: They provide an online booking system for performances, allowing clients to request quotes for customized shows based on location, date, and specific add-ons.

Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association is distinguished by several significant features and highlights that have cemented its reputation as a leading cultural organization in Washington:

• Longstanding Legacy: Established in 1974 by Grandmaster Mak Hin Fai, the association boasts a rich 50-year history of preserving and promoting Chinese martial arts and lion dance traditions in Seattle.
• Seattle's Premier Troupe: They are consistently recognized as the top lion dance troupe in the Washington area, performing hundreds of shows annually at major local events, corporate functions, and cultural celebrations.
• High Professionalism and Authenticity: Customer reviews commend their professionalism, clear communication, and willingness to accommodate requests, ensuring a high-quality and authentic performance experience. Their pride in their craft is evident in every show.
• Acrobatic and High-Energy Performances: Mak Fai is particularly renowned for its advanced lion dance routines, including the challenging "High Pole" and "Jong" performances, which involve lions leaping between poles, distinguishing them from other troupes. They are the only group in Seattle performing the Jong act.
• Cultural Preservation and Education: A core mission is to teach and pass on the traditions of Hung Sing Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu and Southern style lion dancing to younger generations, ensuring the art form thrives.
• Community Impact: Mak Fai regularly participates in significant community events, including Lunar New Year celebrations in Seattle's Chinatown-International District, and has performed at professional sports games (Kraken, Sounders, Seahawks), raising cultural awareness and spreading joy.
• International Recognition: Their exceptional skill has led to invitations to compete in international lion dance competitions, including in Hong Kong, showcasing their global standing.
• Holistic Development: Beyond physical training, their Kung Fu instruction emphasizes discipline, respect, and character development.
• Award-Winning Documentaries: Their story and dedication have been featured in documentaries like "Mak Fai Insider: Building Culture & Community" and "The Golden 50: A Mak Fai Anniversary," which have received film festival selections and awards, highlighting their cultural significance.

For those in Washington interested in booking a performance or learning traditional Chinese martial arts with Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association, here is their contact information:

Address: 606 Maynard Ave S #107, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Phone: (206) 437-8131

Mobile Phone: +1 206-437-8131

Email: seattleliondance@gmail.com

Prospective clients for performances are encouraged to visit their website's "Book Online" section or contact them directly via phone or email to discuss event details and receive a personalized quote. For martial arts training inquiries, reaching out through the provided phone numbers is recommended to learn more about class schedules and enrollment.

In conclusion, the Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association is an unparalleled cultural institution for locals in the Washington region, particularly in Seattle. Its deep roots in the Chinatown-International District, combined with a half-century legacy of excellence, make it a true guardian of traditional Chinese performing arts and martial arts. Whether you are an event organizer seeking an authentic, high-energy performance that will captivate your audience, or an individual looking to immerse yourself in the disciplined and enriching world of Hung Sing Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu, Mak Fai offers an unmatched experience. Their commitment to professionalism, the impressive athleticism and artistry of their lion and dragon dances—especially their unique acrobatic feats—and their dedication to teaching younger generations ensure that these vibrant traditions continue to thrive. For anyone in Washington wanting to connect with a powerful expression of Chinese culture, witness breathtaking performances, or embark on a journey of martial arts mastery, Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association is undoubtedly the premier choice, contributing significantly to the rich cultural tapestry of the Emerald City.

Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association

606 Maynard Ave S #107, Seattle, WA 98104, USA