Many would think that the only hazards lion dancers have to face during their performances are the acrobatic moves on those high Shaolin poles.
That’s unfortunately only the case when fireworks are not in play.
According to a report by Sin Chew Daily, an 18-year-old lion dancer received injuries to the face caused by an accidental explosion of fireworks during a Chinese New Year event, resulting in his right eye going blind. This incident took place on January 29 (Sunday) in Tangkak, Johor.
On the 8th day of the Lunar New Year, the young man, along with his dragon and lion dance troupe, were having performances at several private homes. Sadly, the accident happened during their last stop at 1am on the 9th day of the Lunar New Year.
The dancer, who was the ‘lion tail’, was lighting the fireworks when it exploded unexpectedly. He was injured by the incident and fell to the ground.
His troupe had then sent the dancer to a nearby hospital for treatment and after receiving stitches, he was sent to the another hospital in Muar for further treatment.
“At the Hospital in Muar, my younger brother was waiting for surgery after taking X-rays. At that time, the doctor said that in the worst case, his eyeball would have to be removed and a prosthetic eye would have to be install,” the dancer’s elder sister shared.
However, his eyeball ultimately did not have to be taken out but due to the damage from the fireworks blast, his right eye is now blind.
Throughout the ordeal, the young man is said to be calm and has even comforted his heartbroken family members, sending them text messages telling them not to worry.
“My younger brother also told me, ‘at least I still have one eye, and I can still see you‘,” she added.
We genuinely hope that the dancer has a speedy recovery!
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