When/Where?
How do I join?
Simply show up to one of our practices! See our Practice Calendar for dates, times, and locations.
Even if you’re still making up your mind you are welcome to come out and watch. Once we meet you we’ll let you know of the specific requirements to be able to perform. Remember that practice makes progress!
Where is this practice location?
All of our practice locations are on the main campus of The University of Texas at Austin.
When reviewing our practice calendar:
Biological Laboratories (BIO) West Lawn refers to the the outdoor, grassy area just to the west of the Biological Laboratories (BIO) building. [Google Maps] [UT Space]
Gregory Plaza refers to the outdoor plaza area just to the west of the Gregory Gymnasium (GRE). [Google Maps] [UT Space]
UT Tower refers to the Main Mall, the outdoor mall just to the south of the Main Building (MAI). [Google Maps] [UT Space]
UT Turtle Pond, also known as the Tower Memorial Garden, refers to the outdoor, grassy area just to the south of the Biological Laboratories (BIO) building. [Google Maps] [UT Space]
I missed your newcomer practice. Can I still join?
Absolutely!
Requirements
Is there an age requirement?
Yes.
For insurance, liability, and logistical reasons our team’s membership is limited to individuals of college-age and above (18+).
If you are interested in lion/dragon dance for your child, we are friendly with several local teams which are able to accommodate younger members. Reach out to us and we can put you in touch!
What prior experience do I need before joining?
No experience is necessary!
An interest in the arts of lion and dragon dancing and/or martial arts is all that you need to be a part of TDDT. We will work with you regardless of your skill level or prior experience.
Do I need to know martial arts?
Nope!
Knowledge of or a background in martial arts – while helpful – is not necessary! We will teach you everything that you need to know.
Do I need to be in shape?
If you are not currently in shape then we will get you into shape! All you need to do is to attend practices regularly.
Do I need a car?
While having a car in Texas can be very beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for team membership. If you require assistance getting to a performance, we will help coordinate transportation.
Are there fees?
We understand that dues and/or membership fees can be a financial burden. As a result, our membership dues are optional and are not a prerequisite for membership. We do, however, believe that we provide an excellent value for those who elect to participate.
Lessons are always free of charge to those in attendance.
What should I bring/wear?
We practice outdoors. (You never know what conditions you may be asked to perform under.)
For practices, wear seasonally-appropriate workout clothes with sneakers or athletic shoes.
Practitioners of kung fu may already be familiar with or possess Adidas Samba or Feiyue Fe Lo shoes which are ideal but not required.
Some members choose to wear fingerless weightlifting gloves, but they are not required.
While water is usually available on the UT Austin campus we strongly recommend that you bring your own water bottle.
Do I need to be affiliated with UT Austin?
Nope!
While our organization has a long history and a close relationship with The University of Texas at Austin, membership is open to all adult members of the community.
Parking / Other
Where do I park?
If you are not affiliated with The University of Texas at Austin, please note that on-campus parking is non-existent without a permit.
One option available is the paid parking at the UT Parking Garages.
However, if you review the City of Austin’s Paid On-Street Parking page, you’ll note that in the Central-North Austin area parking fees are (as of this writing) not charged after 6 pm on weekdays nor on weekends. Street parking is, of course, first-come first-serve.
What if I have other questions?
Show up to one of our practices and feel free to ask us any questions you may have!
