The lion dance is one of the most outstanding     1     (tradition) folk dances in China. It can date back to the Three Kingdoms Period (220—280).

The lion     2     (regard) as a symbol of bravery and strength by ancient people. They thought that it could drive away evil and protect people and     3     (they) livestock such as cattle, sheep and so on. Therefore, lion dances are performed at important events,     4     (especial) the Lantern Festival.

The lion dance requires two highly-trained     5     (perform) in a lion suit. One acts as the head and forelegs, and     6     other the hind legs. Under the guidance of a choreographer (编舞者), the “lion” dances to the beat of a drum, a gong (锣), and cymbals (钹). Sometimes they jump, roll, and do difficult acts such     7     walking on stilts (桩子).

In one lion dance, the “lion” moves from place to place looking for some green vegetables, in     8     red envelopes with money inside are hidden. The acting is very amusing and spectators enjoy it very much.

Nowadays, the lion dance     9     (spread) to many other countries with overseas Chinese. In many Chinese communities of Europe and America, Chinese people use lion dances or dragon dances     10     (celebrate) every Spring Festival and other important events.