Shen Yun Performing Arts graced the stage in the Marion Oliver McCaw Hall in Seattle, Washington, on April 5–7. Audience members say they were deeply touched by the performance and valued the opportunity to see 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture.
“I was really impressed with the discipline, the performance, the synchronicity of the performance. The elegance, the beauty … I found it not only mentally stimulating, but I thought it touched the heart and soul,” said Eric Monroe, the owner of Illusion Dance Academy. “It’s very moving, very touching. I consider myself a bit of a tough guy but I was moved to tears by the performance. It was very beautiful.”
“A lot of energy and the orchestra is wonderful. The music is beautiful, we don’t have a lot of exposure to traditional Chinese music and I found it very soothing but also worthwhile while telling the story,” said Justin Avril, the operations director at Olympus Terminals.
“Love the music. The music was tremendous. [I] got lost in the music from time to time. But the beauty and the colors are just spectacular,” said Ken Bell, a business owner.
“I thought the choreography was beautiful. They’re elegant, they’re graceful, the costumes were dreamy,” said Tracey Wilbanks, a business owner.
Traditional Chinese culture finds its roots in spirituality and the divine. Shen Yun showcases those themes through classical Chinese dance, music, and legends. Theatergoers also took note of a deeper message.
“Message is still hope, encouragement that there’s people who still believe in that spirituality, believe in what they’re doing. And so I think it’s a message of hope,” said Jim Hill, an physiology expert.
“The message that I got was that people want to return to their tradition and return to their beliefs and they’re being persecuted for that by the government of China,” said Nicholas Cramer, a senior manufacturing engineer.
“It’s beautiful, and it’s a message of kindness and goodness,” said Rae Rawley, a professor at Peninsula College.
With eight companies touring the world simultaneously, Shen Yun presents new performances for audiences to enjoy every year.
“I would encourage you folks to come. You won’t be disappointed. There’s very few things we can do in life that bring such interests and freshness, and this is one of those events that you should all make an effort to attend,” said Tom Young, the CEO of Real Estate Development.
“I think they’re doing a great job, it’s very refreshing. We know China how it is right now and it’s very good to see what it used to be and hopefully be again someday,” said Jason Pritchard, a business owner.
Mr. Hill said: “The athleticism that the performers has left an impression on me. I really want to thank you guys, I hope you keep it up and we’re gonna be coming back, we’re gonna make it a tradition.”
Shen Yun’s 2024 world tour ends in May this year.
NTD News, Seattle, Washington
