A performer focusing intently as he balances a flagpole on his mouth during the Chingay procession, captivating the audience with his precision and skill. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
THE Chingay Parade in George Town, Penang, dazzled spectators with vibrant performances that showcased the region’s rich cultural heritage.
A highlight of the latest edition was a fleet of trishaws transporting models wearing kebaya outfits, in celebration of the traditional attire’s inclusion on Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
“Chingay” is derived from the combined terms for “the art of costume” and “masquerade” in Hokkien.
It was reported that the first Chingay in Penang took place in 1919 to celebrate the Goddess of Mercy’s birthday and was organised by market traders and Chinese communities in the city.
Held each December in Penang, the annual event was recognised as an intangible cultural heritage by the National Heritage Department in 2012.
Performers playing the characters of squabbling couple Bong Bai Hneah and Bong Bai Soh (right) duelling with sticks.
The latest iteration involved 42 teams in a four-hour procession that kicked off from Padang Brown along Jalan Datuk Keramat, making its way through Jalan Penang, Jalan Burma, Jalan Transfer, Jalan Sri Bahari, Jalan Chulia and Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling before culminating at the Esplanade near Town Hall building.
Spectators were mesmerised by the breathtaking performances of acrobats expertly balancing and tossing flags on giant bamboo poles.
By midnight, the grand finale included a spectacular lion dance on stilts, followed by a dazzling fireworks display at the Esplanade.
A performer focusing intently as he balances a flagpole on his mouth during the Chingay procession, captivating the audience with his precision and skill. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
Several performers balancing flagpoles on their mouths and foreheads during the Chingay celebration.
Performers playing the characters of squabbling couple Bong Bai Hneah and Bong Bai Soh (right) duelling with sticks.
A vibrant dragon dance performance unfolding against the backdrop of the iconic Komtar building.
A fleet of trishaws, ferrying models dressed in exquisite kebaya costumes, taking to the streets to celebrate the traditional attire’s inclusion on Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
A Chingay performer skilfully balancing a flagpole on his forehead while standing on a ladder.
