Tutor, Leader, Tamer

The "big head monk" is traditionally part of the lion dance. He helps lead the lion in a parade, guiding him to lucky money envelopes and pointing out dangerous obstacles to avoid.

In addition, during the "scenario" of the lion dance, the monk sets things up so that the lion can be awakened properly and bestow luck upon the people for the new year. He lights the candles, sweeps the floors, opens the doors and rings the gong so that the lion can come out and scare away evil spirits.