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“The [artists] have wonderful energy, they are beautiful to look at. The stage, the costumes, they offered quite a bit,” Ms. Phethean said.
Ms. Phethean was inspired by the range of dance programs offered in Shen Yun, which cross various dynasties, ethnic groups, and geographic regions in order to depict the grandeur of traditional Chinese culture and history.
“I was very impressed. I liked the way they broke [the dances] up into sections and explained it from the beginning of time until the present. I truly enjoyed it,” she praised.
“I liked it very much,” Olivia added.
Shen Yun is known for its unique musical array, which include opera soloists, a full orchestra, piano accompaniments, and traditional Chinese instruments.
The powerful voice of the tenor was deeply moving for Ms. Phethean.
“That last singer … was phenomenal. He has a beautiful voice; it touched our hearts, he really did.” she said.
Ms. Phethean was deeply appreciative of the opportunity to see the historical cultural revival displayed in the show. Shen Yun is the world's premier classical Chinese dance and music company, and the only show in the world that features traditional Chinese culture and its true art forms, independent of China's communist regime.
“It's wonderful to have this here … I wanted to enjoy the culture and learn more about it. It's been a wonderful experience,” she said.
Ms. Phethean recommended the show and hopes to come back and see it next year. She said everyone would enjoy Shen Yun regardless of their cultural or professional background.
“Whether your are a dancer or not, if you have an appreciation for the art and the culture, this was worth coming to.”
Reporting by Xiao Xu and Justina Wheale.
New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has three touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world. For more information, visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
