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Arts & Culture

Learning to ‘Appreciate Freedom’ Through ‘The Spectacular’

BY Nadia Ghattas TIMEFebruary 15, 2009
Frederick and Mary Parker. (Nadia Ghattas/The Epoch Times)
Frederick and Mary Parker. (Nadia Ghattas/The Epoch Times)

WASHINGTON—The last curtain call for Divine Performing Arts (DPA)on February 13 evening's show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts received a standing ovation.

There were many happy faces among the audience at the sold-out show, even though some had to stand throughout the show. Close to 100 people were waiting for returned tickets and many were able to stand and watch as the tickets came in.

People were so moved during some of the scenes that it was not unusual that a neighbor handed out tissues to wipe away their tears.

Among the audience were two couples, Frederick and Mary Parker, and Mr. and Mrs. Bell.

Mrs. Parker was impressed that the DPA showed scenes that revealed present day hidden secrets of China.

“I thought that the part about the persecution by the communists was so potent and makes you realize how we should appreciate freedom. Both those scenes told a very big story and left an impression that I will remember for the rest of my life. It gave a message of hope and compassion and to be kind- good wins over evil."

She continued, “The show was so outstanding, the performance, the precision, the costumes, everything was so wonderful.”

Mrs. Bell referred to the scene Heaven Awaits us Despite Persecution, which tells of a father who is persecuted in China for practicing Falun Gong, a traditional spiritual discipline which requires adherents to live by the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, Tolerance.

Ms. Bell has learned much about other cultures through the DPA show and said, "It was a very polished performance. Anytime you [would] see a dance or musical performance, you would learn about a culture or people. This has widened my understanding of Chinese culture.”

“Everything just came together, fluid and effortless. It was just beautiful to watch—just beautiful," Mr. Bell interjected.

The great performance and being privy to cultural nuances will remain for years in the mind of these audience members. "It was a very polished performance and the musicians and costumes, designers and dancers, everyone from start to finish portrayed a spirit of adventure without compromising grace in doing that. Anytime you see a dance or musical performance, you would learn about a culture or people and this has widened my widened my understanding of Chinese culture."

The Bells were amazed by the skill the dancers displayed and shared their thoughts, "You can see their dedication to training. Everything just came together, fluid and effortless. It was just beautiful to watch—just beautiful."

"We feel so wonderful to have seen it this evening. It was our Valentine’s gift to each other," the Bells said before heading home.

  Please see DivinePerformingArts.org for more information

 

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