Chinese New Year is Singapore's biggest annual celebration, and the corporate D&D (Dinner and Dance) season that surrounds it, from November through February, is the busiest period for entertainment agencies. Whether you're planning a company CNY dinner, a festive gala, or a client appreciation event, here are the best entertainment acts to make your Chinese New Year event unforgettable.
1. Lion Dance
No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without a lion dance. The lion dance is considered auspicious and symbolises good luck, prosperity, and the driving away of evil spirits. For corporate events, a lion dance performance during the opening ceremony sets a festive, energetic tone. Options range from traditional single-lion performances to elaborate two or three-lion shows with drums and cymbals.
Modern lion dance troupes can also perform LED lion dances, lions with built-in LED lights that create a spectacular visual effect in darkened ballrooms. This contemporary twist is increasingly popular for corporate gala dinners.
2. Dragon Dance
For larger events and grand entrances, a dragon dance makes a dramatic statement. Requiring 8-12 performers, the dragon winds through the venue bringing energy and excitement. Dragon dances are particularly impressive in hotel ballrooms and convention centres where there's space for the full spectacle.
3. Chinese Musicians
Traditional Chinese musicians add authentic cultural ambiance to CNY events:
- Guzheng (Chinese zither): Elegant plucked-string instrument perfect for dinner background music.
- Erhu (two-string fiddle): Hauntingly beautiful, ideal for creating an authentic Chinese atmosphere.
- Pipa (Chinese lute): Lively and versatile, suitable for both traditional and contemporary pieces.
- Chinese Orchestra: A full ensemble of traditional instruments for a grand, immersive cultural experience.
4. Chinese Dance Performances
Beautiful dance acts that complement the CNY theme:
- Fan Dance: Graceful dancers with silk fans performing choreographed routines, elegant and visually stunning.
- Ribbon Dance: Flowing ribbon performances that create mesmerising patterns in the air.
- Lantern Dance: Dancers performing with illuminated lanterns, particularly effective in dim lighting.
- Drum Performance: Powerful, rhythmic Chinese drum shows that energise the audience.
5. LED Dragon Performance
A modern evolution of the traditional dragon dance, LED dragons feature illuminated segments that create a stunning visual display in darkened rooms. This act combines cultural tradition with contemporary technology, making it a favourite for corporate CNY events that want to honour tradition while feeling modern and innovative.
6. Acrobats & Variety Acts
Chinese acrobatic arts are world-renowned. For CNY events, acrobatic performances add a thrilling element:
- Plate spinning: Classic Chinese circus art that amazes audiences.
- Contortion: Incredible flexibility acts that leave guests in awe.
- Chinese yo-yo (diabolo): Skilful, entertaining, and uniquely Chinese.
- Face changing (Bian Lian): The ancient Sichuan art of rapid mask changes, an absolute showstopper.
7. God of Fortune & Mascot Characters
The God of Fortune (Cai Shen Ye) is a beloved CNY character who roams the event distributing mandarin oranges and red packets. This interactive element is perfect for family-friendly events and corporate gatherings, creating photo opportunities and spreading festive joy.
Planning Your CNY Event Entertainment
Here's a suggested entertainment flow for a CNY corporate dinner:
- Arrival: Chinese musician (guzheng or pipa) in the foyer + God of Fortune greeting guests
- Opening: Lion dance or dragon dance ceremony (15-20 mins)
- Dinner: Chinese orchestra or instrumental background music
- Mid-event: Fan dance or ribbon dance performance (10-15 mins)
- Highlight: LED dragon performance or Chinese acrobatic act (15-20 mins)
- Party: Live band or DJ for the dance segment
Booking Tips for CNY Season
- Book early: CNY entertainment gets booked 3-6 months in advance. The best lion dance troupes are fully booked by October.
- Budget appropriately: CNY season is peak demand. Rates are typically 20-30% higher than off-peak periods.
- Consider your audience: If your event includes international guests, pair traditional acts with an emcee who can explain the cultural significance.
- Logistics matter: Lion and dragon dances require clear pathways through the venue. Brief the hotel or venue in advance.