At the Dragon Lion Dance Competition in Guangning County, Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province, Australian actor and action director Adel—known by his Chinese name "Ganzhe" ("Sugarcane")—practiced lion dance moves under his coach's guidance. Using his newly learned Guangning dialect, he exclaimed, "Guangning is so interesting and fun!".
Adel learns Chinese kung fu from a Guangning master.
Adel began studying martial arts in Australia before enhancing his skills for action movies at Jackie Chan's stunt school in Beijing, training with Chan's team.
Before Chinese New Year, he first heard about Guangning from his local girlfriend, who described it as one of China's "National Martial Arts Hometowns", where a rich martial arts tradition has thrived alongside dragon and lion dance culture for over 2,000 years. Today, more than 800 dragon and lion dance troupes remain active across urban and rural communities.
Adel experiences the traditional craft of making Bai Ci.
Intrigued by Guangning's rich culture and heritage, Adel spent Chinese New Year in the county. On New Year's Day, he joined a dragon and lion dance parade and tried traditional crafts, including making Bai Ci, a glutinous rice cake. "I was amazed by the dedication of the performers," he said. "There's a warm vibe here—from the people to the food to the culture."
Adel has shared his experience with friends in Australia, many of whom are eager to visit. "I even hope to film an action movie here someday," he added. "My team, Avalanche, has made a few films, and Guangning, as the land of martial arts, would be the perfect location."
Reporter | Shi Liang
Video & Photo | Guangning County Converged Media Center
