Engineer: ‘These are not just dancers, they are messengers’

CLERMONT-FERRAND, France—Jacques and Annie Rousseau were glowing with inspiration after watching the Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Maison de la Culture in Clermont-Ferrand, France, on March 9.

New York-based Shen Yun is currently travelling around the world, making history for its unparalleled efforts to revive traditional Chinese culture through classical Chinese dance. Each dance tells a legendary story expressing traditional values, a precious culture that has been all but destroyed under the current Chinese Communist regime.

“These are not just dancers, they are messengers and they give their all, everything of their bodies and souls. We feel very good, it's very strong, very powerful. We received it in our hearts,” said Mr. Rousseau.

“There are no words strong enough to express it,” Ms. Rousseau added. “Wonderful, we spent a delightful evening!”

An engineer for Michelin, one of the world's largest tire manufacturers, Mr. Rousseau felt Shen Yun was a beacon of hope that could revive the potential for goodness in humankind.

“Tolerance! That's what I found to be the most important: tolerance, the search for peace, harmony … It's an extraordinary symbol of peace and serenity, and if the whole world could learn it, it would be nice,” he said.

Ms. Rousseau, who practises tai chi, a form of Chinese martial arts, was deeply touched by the way the beauty of the costumes, movements and stories could evoke joy and uplift her spirits.

“It really is a perfect show, magnificent! Perfection! The beauty, costumes, paintings, spirituality … I felt a lot of things,” she said.

Ms. Rousseau says Shen Yun is on a level unto itself, and has never seen anything like it.

“This is the first time we've seen this company, but compared to other shows, it's truly unique … I hope we'll see this show again next year!” she said.

Shen Yun Performing Arts Touring Company will give 10 performances in France. The company will be in Paris for performances at the Palais des Congrès de Paris on March 11, 12 and 13, then performing at the Amphithéatre 3000 in Lyon on March 18, 19 and 20, and in Bordeaux on March 22.

For more information, visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org