DateBetween 15th August 2024 and 27th August 2024Description- Leaders of the future
"Located in the heart of Cabramatta, home to the Moon Festival and Lunar New Year celebrations, THQ stakes its claim as a territorial presence in the area’s vibrant lion dancing scene. As the largest and most well-known group, THQ stands apart from others not just in size but in its unique approach.
Led by Maggie, the group embraces a maverick spirit, breaking away from tightly held traditions. Unlike other teams, Maggie doesn’t teach lion dancing in a conventional sense. Instead, she allows it to become an expression of the students themselves, guiding their training to focus on synchronisation and collaboration rather than rigid instruction.
THQ’s structure is split into children’s and youth classes, with teenagers given the added responsibility of mentoring and caring for the younger members. This student-led approach fosters leadership and accountability, raising not just skilled dancers but future community leaders.
Though THQ’s LED-lit costumes and playful performances might seem far removed from traditional lion dancing, their purpose remains deeply rooted in community. Maggie and her team have created a space where resilience and discipline are cultivated through innovation, proving that even the most unconventional approaches can honour the heart of the practice." PhotographerClinton Ngo Nguyen Geolocation[1] NotesThese photographs are part of the 2024 City Photographer project.
Details
Image ColourColourTypeDigitalCopyrightPartial restriction. Please contact Fairfield City Heritage Services for image use.AcknowledgementClinton Ngo Nguyen 2024 Fairfield City Photographer. Image courtesy of Fairfield City Heritage Collection.
THQ (Between 15th August 2024 and 27th August 2024). Fairfield City Heritage Collection, accessed 10/02/2026, https://heritagecollection.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/nodes/view/6565
