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Pastor of the Immanuel Baptist Church, Rev. Rachel Mcguire, gave the show a sparkling review.
“I loved everything,” she said. “It was wonderful and just amazing, very beautiful.
“It gave me a very deeply spiritual feeling and I appreciate that a lot, because that's what I do too.”
New York-based Shen Yun uses story-telling and dynamic visual displays to present traditional Chinese culture and dance. The world's premier classical Chinese dance and music company, Shen Yun is independent of the Chinese communist regime, and is dedicated to reviving traditions that were lost under decades of authoritarian rule.
Rev. Mcguire says that she appreciated not only the joyous, lively dances in Shen Yun, but also the contemporary scenes, which depict life under suppression in modern-day China. For millions of Chinese people, freedom of belief and expression can still not be enjoyed today.
“It's difficult to see, because it's sad to see any kind of repression. But it's wonderful that it's part of the message of the show. And I appreciate it, to help us learn more about it,” she explained.
“The [dances] are all gorgeous, I liked every one of them. Everything was wonderful.”
Rev. Mcguire was impressed with the musical variety performed in Shen Yun. Along with a full orchestra to accompany each dance, the show also features dynamic opera soloists and traditional Chinese instruments.
“The musicians are terrific … I loved everything,” she said.
The show's moving digital backdrop was particularly enjoyable for Rev. Mcguire, adding a dynamic dimension to each dance. At times, performers can be seen flying through the air, into another world projected on the giant screen.
“It's interesting … very joyful and inspiring. I love the way the screens were used to move between Heaven and Earth—very effective and fascinating, very creative,” she said.
Rev. Mcguire said she would enthusiastically recommend the show to others.
Reporting by Quincy Yu and Justina Wheale.
Shen Yun Performing Arts New York Company will next perform in Philadelphia at the Academy of Music on Feb. 22-23. For more information, please visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
