VACI Lions
We're the lion dance team representing the Vietnamese American Community in Iowa. Rooted in tradition, we perform to ward off bad luck, welcome good fortune, and celebrate our culture with the community.
We have performed for many different events, and are very adaptable to the requirements they want from us. From crowd interactions, to performing tricks, we love to learn more to entertain the audience.
We are open to enthusiastic beginners and experienced dancers ages 12 and up, no previous experience needed. We train at the VACI center every Sunday at 2:00 PM and Monday at 5:00 PM, and perform throughout the year at events and festivals.
Our Purpose
The VACI Lions are a youth-led lion dance group based in Des Moines, Iowa that was founded in 2023. The VACI Lions goal is the continuous learning of Vietnamese culture and the spread of joy, fortune, and respectfulness throughout the community. The group is open to anyone interested in lion dancing or connecting with other youths in the community regardless of background. The group can be reached for performances, recruitment, or any business other inquiries through their instagram @vaci_lions.
Recent Photos
A look at some pictures we took recently!
Performance Booking Form
Our Performances
Depending on what each event entails, there are different specifications for each performance. From traditional perfromacnes with routines, to crowd interactions to get the audience excited!
Where You'll See Us
We perform throguhout the whole year for many different events.
Holidays
These would include the Lunar New Year/Tết celebrations or Mid Autumn/Moon festival.
Weddings & Grand Openings
When requested, we can perform in a more traditional setting for people's weddings and grand opening ceremonies.
Cultural & School Events
We love performing for these to show off our culture. This helps get more people interest in lion dancing and could get us more members!
VACI Events
Since we are based from the organization Vietnmaese American Community in Iowa, we often participate in their events and activities when needed. This helps bring in more attraction for our community and our lion dance team!
Behind the Dance
We practice often to get our routines to be sychronized. Starting from drumming, to cymballing, then dancing in time together.
What's Coming Up
Planned Events
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Do You Have Images of Us?
Upload your photos in this Google Form, and we will get back to you if we use your photo.
Where We've Performed
We have had the privilege of performing at various venues and events throughout our history.
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Moments From the Team
Tap any photo for a closer look.
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Leaders & Members
Our team consists of people from different backgrounds, different ages, and different skill levels. Despite that, we love to practice together and have team bondings.
Team Leaders
Andy Ta
Team Leader
Jordyn Cherniss
Team Leader
Tosh Cherniss
Team Leader
Sarah Bui
Team Leader
Members
Previous Team Leaders
Off finishing medical school. We miss them, but we can't wait to see what they do.
Andrew Trieu
Former Team Leader
Ly Nguyen
Former Team Leader
Alex Ngo
Former Team Leader
Angela Ling
Former Team Leader