NEW YORK—Michelle Koller lives in Hong Kong, but she had to come to New York City to get a true taste of ancient, traditional Chinese culture. Koller, who owns a furniture business in Hong Kong, attended Sunday’s last sold-out show of the Shen Yun Performing Arts Touring Company at the Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater.
“I love the show,” said Ms. Koller. “I thought it was very interesting, beautiful dancing, I like that it was so traditional and there’s a lot of ancient culture and history involved.”
Ms. Koller noted that even though she lives in Hong Kong she had something to learn about Chinese culture.
“Because I live in Hong Kong I know a little bit about [Chinese culture], but it’s interesting to always learn more.”
Shen Yun has three equally large companies touring the world, each with an orchestra and bel canto vocal soloists. The New York-based performing arts company is known for its colourful costumes, intricately choreographed dances, and unique animated backdrops.
In particular, she learned more about Chinese dance. The flips and turns are an ancient part of classical Chinese dance.
“A lot of the movements are not gymnastic—they’re traditional Chinese dance that have been going on for thousands of years, so a lot of other dance groups have borrowed those dances.”
Ms. Koller enjoyed Shen Yun so much she said she may bring her children back to New York when the show returns in April.
Reporting by NTD Television and Genevieve Long.
Shen Yun Performing Arts Touring Company will next perform at Providence Performing Arts Center in Rhode Island on Jan. 19. They will return to New York’s Lincoln Center Apr. 18-22.
For more information, visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org.
