Tibetan Sacred Dance: A Brief Introduction by Lea Terhune

Lama Dance

The Lama Dances are performed once a year on the 28th & 29th of the last month of the year, before Losar - the Tibetan new year, (which mostly coincides with the Chinese new year).

There are two days of dancing, the first in elaborate robes, the second in full mask and ornate costume. There is no dress rehearsal.

Leading up to Losar, the whole monastic community is involved in the most expansive, elaborate prayer session of the year. Lasting 8 days, with an average of a 19hr day, the Lama Dances are an intrinsic part of the prayer meeting and are not performed on their own as a form of entertainment.


The Lama Dance transposes the new year prayers into movement. In the dance the Protectors cut through any obstacles in the coming year, which on a deeper level means cutting through the ego - the source of all suffering.