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HIROSHIMA, Japan—Hiroshima, with its Atomic Dome and Cenotaph for victims of the Atomic Bomb testifying to the urban destruction, which helped stop World War II, was the third of four Japanese venues hosting the Divine Performing Arts (DPA) this year.
The suffering of victims of human rights abuses in China, shown with contemporary dance, was acknowledged by the audiences of the Hiroshima performances of the DPA 2009 World Tour.
The DPA is well known for its distinguished presentation of traditional Chinese culture. However, the eloquent portrayal of contemporary issues such as the scene Heaven Awaits Us Despite Persecution was often remarked on.The fantastic scenes that ultimately unfold in this piece present a message of hope and bespeak of a longstanding Chinese belief that good people are ultimately rewarded, even if not in this lifetime.
Mr. Yoshiyuki Kashimoto, a former Professor of Hiroshima Women’s University, was deeply impressed with the beauty and compassion of the divine culture shown by the DPA.
“The most impressive scene was the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners who are cultivating to a high spiritual standard of “Zhen Shan Ren” (Truthfulness, Benevolence and Forbearance). When the authorities killed the father, and the mother and daughter were suffering, gods came down from the heavens and the father ascended to the heavens. No words were involved, but the message was clear. I was in tears, sharing the sadness of the mother and child.
Mr. Kashimoto continued, “I am Christian. Some say ‘religion is opium,’ but this is a completely wrong understanding. Having a faith means to appreciate everything, and have courage in life. I was really impressed to learn how all the performers are cherishing their connection with gods through the DPA performance today.”
Mr. Kashimoto has specialized in Japanese language education, and has visited China and built friendships with Chinese students. However, he felt uncomfortable with their extreme attitude to materialism. “I was relieved to learn that the traditional Chinese culture is beautiful and [to see] the goodness of the original China.”
His wife, Kazuko, said “Genuine … therefore moving. The colors of the costumes are something you cannot find in Japan.”
Their grandson (2nd year in Senior High School) said, “All the performers were glowing and beautiful—very impressive. I am studying Chinese Poetry at school and I knew the background of the poet Li Bai [The Poet’s Vision]. I enjoyed that.”
Mr. Katuki Sunahara, a Member of the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly said, “I was particularly impressed with the performance about the persecution against Falun Gong.
“I heard about this type of persecution in China where the economy is expanding. Since we don’t have anything like this in Japan, it is very difficult for us to understand. I do hope this type of tragic persecution will stop as soon as possible.”
Gentaro Okazaki, a Member of Kure City Assembly in Okazaki Prefecture, commented, “The story of persecution of Falun Gong, in which the person died due to the persecution [and was] raised to heaven as a Buddha, put me in tears. I really cannot imagine that such persecutions are taking place in this modern civilization.
“It is really sad to learn that such an excellent cultural performance cannot be shown in mainland China. I have never seen such genuine traditional Chinese dance.
“I really appreciate that this show was held in Hiroshima, the centre of the world peace,” he added. “I will bring friends to your performance next year.”
Mr. Haruo Sadakane, a Professor of Shokei University in Kumamoto, said of the show “As I expected, it was good. As for the persecution in mainland China, … I think it is important to let the Japanese know widely about these persecutions. … However, I think now is the time not to bend to the pressure but to act as we believe.”
Mr. Sadakane’s wife, Kumiko, said, “This is my third time. Every year the artistic level goes up. Male dances were really powerful, and female dances were beautiful and elegant. I was moved in a completely fresh way. Thank you very much for showing me such a wonderful thing.
“Regarding the persecutions in China, it’s a good opportunity to let many Japanese people know the facts. It is important for many Japanese to learn the truth of the persecution and oppose it by watching this performance.”
Translator Yukari Werell.
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Divine Performing Arts. For more information please see: DivinePerformingArts.org
