Est. 2007 • Providence, RI
Rhode Island
Kung Fu Club
Teaching Kung Fu & Chinese Lion Dance to Providence-area youth
About Us
Cultivating Patience, Perseverance & Community
The Rhode Island Kung Fu Club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has taught the martial and cultural arts of kung fu and Chinese lion dance to Providence-area youth since 2007.
We operate through volunteer efforts and welcome members of all cultural backgrounds. Our mission is to utilize martial arts training to assist young people in their maturation and growth.
The effort and commitment required to develop kung fu and lion dance skills cultivates patience and perseverance—cornerstone ideals that will serve our members well throughout their lives.
Community
Building connections across cultures through shared practice and performance
Discipline
Developing focus, respect, and commitment through dedicated training
Tradition
Preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Chinese martial and cultural arts
Our Leadership
Luyi Shao
Director & Instructor
A former student of Sifu Raymond Wong (黃理文) and the Wong People Kung Fu Association of Washington, D.C., Luyi Shao (邵鹿邑) is dedicated to the continuation and study of Dean Chin's Jow Ga kung fu.
In addition to being a dedicated kung fu practitioner, Luyi is a professional educator with classroom teaching experience. He is committed to helping youth develop both inside and outside of martial arts.
Our Lineage
What We Teach
Our Programs
Kung Fu Training
Jow Ga Style
Our kung fu curriculum is rooted in the Jow Ga system, a traditional Southern Chinese martial art combining the powerful strikes and movements of Hung Gar with the agile footwork and kicks of Choy Gar, emphasizing simultaneous attack and defense.
- Traditional forms and techniques
- Self-defense applications
- Physical conditioning
- Weapons training (advanced)
- Competition preparation
RIKFC members have participated in martial arts competitions throughout New England and the East Coast.
Chinese Lion Dance
Southern Lion Style
Chinese lion dance (舞獅) is a festive, cultural performance combining the movement and spirit of kung fu with drumming and percussion. It symbolizes fostering positivity and warding away negative energy.
- Lion head and tail coordination
- Traditional drumming patterns
- Cymbal and gong techniques
- Choy Ching (採青) - "Plucking the Greens"
- Performance choreography
The Lucky Lettuce Tradition
During performances, our lions perform Choy Ching—plucking lettuce hung above doorways. The word for lettuce (菜/Cai) sounds like "wealth" in Chinese. By scattering the greens, the lion spreads prosperity and good fortune to all present.
Youth Development Focus
We collaborate with local schools and community centers through our outreach program, providing access to kung fu instruction for Providence-area youth. Our training instills values that extend far beyond the practice floor.
In the Community
Performances & Events
The RIKFC shares kung fu and lion dance with both Chinese and non-Chinese audiences throughout Rhode Island. From intimate cultural celebrations to large-scale festivals, we bring energy, tradition, and good fortune wherever we perform.
WaterFire Providence
Performing at one of Providence's most iconic arts events
PVDFest
Celebrating arts and culture in downtown Providence
Pawtucket Arts Festival
Bringing martial arts to the local arts community
FirstWorks Providence
Collaborating with performing arts organizations
RI Heritage Festival
Showcasing Rhode Island's cultural diversity
Lunar New Year
Traditional celebrations throughout the community
Ballet RI's Nutcracker
In 2023, RIKFC collaborated with Ballet RI to ensure authenticity in the Chinese dance portions of their Nutcracker production, bringing traditional lion dance to the classical ballet stage.
Book Us For Your Event
Bring the excitement and good fortune of lion dance to your celebration, business opening, wedding, school, or community event.
Request a PerformanceSee Us in Action
Gallery
Follow us on Instagram @ri.kungfuclub for photos and videos from our latest performances and training sessions.
More photos coming soon
More photos coming soon
Support Our Mission
Help Us Grow
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Rhode Island Kung Fu Club relies on community support to continue our mission of teaching kung fu and lion dance to Providence-area youth.
Your donation helps us provide instruction, maintain equipment, and expand our community outreach programs. In 2024, we were honored to receive a THRIVE grant from Rhode Island Humanities in recognition of our work promoting cultural heritage and cross-cultural understanding.
Spread the Word
Follow us and share our mission with your community
Rhode Island Kung Fu & Lion Dance Club is a registered 501(c)(3) organization. EIN: 27-1489682
Get in Touch
Contact Us
Join Our Club
Interested in learning kung fu or lion dance? We welcome students of all ages and backgrounds.
Book a Performance
Bring the excitement of lion dance to your event—Lunar New Year, business openings, weddings, schools, and more.
Community Partnerships
Schools and community organizations interested in our outreach programs are encouraged to reach out.