Walking around the back streets of Lhasa,
Tibet I came across these school kids working on their street dance moves. They were very eager to show some of
their skills. This boy was only
beginning to master this handstand technique. After many attempts he managed to hold the position for 5-6
seconds and was delighted! When he
stood up, he was overjoyed and was eager to demonstrate the next trick!
So………….he claimed the wall and be began
leaping off! He was very talented and obviously had a passion for this. He was very confident and
friendly. My six-year-old son was
in awe of this young boy and tried to mimic his moves with limited
progress.
It was amazing when the young boy came over
to us and directing my son. They
played together for some time before the father called the boy in for
dinner. It reminded me that
children can certainly teach us many thing. Not only street dance, but also the ability to get along and
help each other.
It was very challenging to be faced with a
first hand experience of how outside influences are impacting on the
traditional culture of the people of Tibet. Is this the future of Tibet? The boy was certainly happy and
a talented performer, but it did prompt the question ‘Is this progress?’
Nigel Fitzpatrick
