Ian Stafford reports ...
Confucius he say ... arrive early for good position and be prepared for rain!
The north-east crowds, DPS photographers amongst them, were out in force in Stowell Street for this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations, this year being the Year of the Dragon. Only early bird photographers were able to be in prime position in front of the Chinese Arch. Ear-splitting firecrackers filled the air with smoke announced the arrival of the dragons (aka Longs). The Lion dancers then slowly meandered down the street, stopping at each restaurant to furnish them with luck for the coming year.
Most restaurants made an offering of lettuce (or should it be pak choy?!) which was ceremoniously chewed up into tiny pieces by the Lion dancers to the thrilling sound of Chinese drums, tambourines and cymbals. When two Lions met, they embraced in friendly manner and not in the more traditional, confrontational way.
There were stalls selling paper dragons and fortune cookies, along with the fair-ground rides and food sellers! Altogether a most enjoyable and colourful celebration and good day out for photographers. Well worth a return visit next year.
Check out Rob Birrell’s blog for more pictures: http://robbirrell.com/chinese-new-year-2012-newcastle-stowell-street/
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