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BERLIN—Mr. Hans Eike von Oppeln-Bronikowski, president of the Friends of Friedrichstadtpalast, the venue that debuted Shen Yun Performing Arts 2009 World Tour on March 23, was very impressed with the show.
Mr. von Oppeln-Bronikowski, a renowned lawyer born of an aristocratic family, attended the presentation of classical Chinese dance and music with 20 others from the Rotary Club. "They were all very impressed," he said.
"It was unique, especially since we have never seen anything like it, and definitely not on a continuing basis," he said. "The costumes were luxurious and the dancers very graceful. It was fascinating to observe the way they moved. Also, the entire dance company was very impressive.
"I was quite surprised, since I never thought that foreign-born Chinese would be able to bring something like this to the stage."
The themes and styles in the show were new and different for the altruistic group. Rotary Club members help those in need. "But, there was a feeling of the human factor which affects one deeply, and which also has a definite connection with us," said Mr. von Oppeln-Bronikowski.
"As the president of the Friends of the Friedrichstadtpalast, I was especially pleased to have this show with us."
Inspired by the spirit of China's heritage, Shen Yun brings to life beloved legends of yesteryear, courageous tales of modern-day China, along with ethnic and folk stories from China's vast land.
Digital 3-D backdrops conjure up pastoral vistas and celestial scenes, while groundbreaking music combines the best of Western and Chinese composition, which will forever be engraved in Mr. von Oppeln-Bronikowski's memory.
"Yes, especially the dances in combination [with the backdrops] … with the unfamiliar landscapes, and the instruments were grand." He thought the performance by the orchestra was a masterful fusion, adding strength to the show, and was most beautiful. Precisely the mixture of our [Western] tones.
Mr. von Oppeln-Bronikowski said he would definitely recommend the show, and would certainly be back again, especially if the venue remained at the Friedrichstadtpalast.
The audience honored Shen Yun with applause at poignant moments, and gave standing ovations. The theatre was packed.
In closing, Mr. von Oppeln-Bronikowski reiterated that the New York-based production would forever linger in the minds of those who were fortunate enough to see it.
Alluding to the fact that Shen Yun cannot perform in China today, he said, "I don't doubt, if this kind of show would be allowed to be performed in China, it would develop rapidly. No one who saw it will totally forget something like this."
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of the Shen Yun Performing Arts 2009 World Tour. For more information please visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
