Chongqing—On March 1, during the traditional Chinese Longtaitou Festival, or Dragon-Head-Raising Festival, the Luhai International Dragon Dance Team was established in Chongqing's Tongliang District. They also performed a dragon dance at the event.

The Luhai International Dragon Dance Team was established in Chongqing's Tongliang District. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

The Longtaitou festival falls on the second day of the second month of the Chinese lunar calendar. It symbolizes the awakening of the dragon and the beginning of agricultural activities in ancient times. 

One year ago, Nigerian international student Ezeuka Makuochukwu Nelson, participated in a cultural activity organized by the Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation, where he experienced the traditional Chinese Tongliang Dragon Dance for the first time. Enthralled by the dance, he joined the international dragon dance team at the start of this year. His experience has not only deepened his connection with Chinese culture but also launched him on a mission to spread China's "Dragon Culture."

On March 1, Nigerian international student Ezeuka Makuochukwu Nelson arrived in Tongliang to begin a dragon dance training. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

On March 1, Nelson arrived in Tongliang to begin a rigorous dragon dance training journey. The day started with a visit to the Tongliang Museum's dragon lantern exhibition hall, where he learned about the rich history, distinctive features, and cultural significance of the "dragon culture." 

Later, he and his fellow team members took part in the official formation ceremony of the "Luhai International Dragon Dance Team" and received certificates as public service messengers for Tongliang's dragon culture.

"Learning the dragon dance is not easy," said Nelson. "The dragon's head is extremely heavy—it's like lifting dozens of pounds—and without the support of my teammates, performing the intricate moves would be nearly impossible. I lasted about ten minutes, and my hands were already starting to hurt." 

Despite the challenges, Nelson regarded his involvement in learning this intangible cultural heritage as an invaluable experience. "As a foreigner, it's rare and special to have the chance to experience and learn about China's traditional arts," he added.

The Luhai International Dragon Dance Team was established in Chongqing's Tongliang District. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

On the morning of March 2, the dragon dance team visited Anju Ancient Town, where they joined international students from over ten countries, including Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Malaysia, and South Korea. Together, they immersed themselves in the local dragon culture and Longtaitou Festival folklore, gaining deeper insights into the area's traditional customs.

"After being in China for almost two years, I've actually become a 'descendant of the dragon,'" Nelson said. His first official performance, following his systematic training, was a triumphant moment. The team worked in perfect harmony, and their lively performance was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience, a moment of pride for Nelson and his fellow performers.

Now serving as a public service ambassador for international communication, Nelson is filled with hope and ambition. He dreams of spreading the beauty of the Tongliang Dragon Dance across the globe. Inspired by the work of Cai Mingcan, the deputy director of the Tongliang Dragon Art Troupe, he hopes to bring this authentic Chinese intangible cultural heritage back to Nigeria.

 "I want to share the charm of China's 'Dragon Culture' with my family and friends, and let more people experience its unique appeal," Nelson said.

(Wang Shuyun, as an intern, also contributed to the report.)