COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.—”They’re absolutely amazing. The best dancers I’ve ever seen. By far,” said Dr. Deric Rachjaibun, a physician in Colorado.
He and many patrons saw Shen Yun Performing Arts in Colorado Springs in March.
“Absolutely blown away by the visuals, the story line, the athleticism of the dancers. I mean, I just—it was not what I expected, but I was pleased more than I ever expected it would be,” said James West, a project manager with Timberline Landscaping.
“Love it. So graceful, so athletic, so, you know, surprised that there’s such a good meaning to it as well. Well, that was kind of a nice surprise,” said Scott Haley, an insurance agent and consultant.
Also in attendance with, Mark Scott, former director of state services for USA Wrestling, Inc. and recipient of the 2004 Medal of Courage by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
“The performers looked in great shape, and I used to work for the Olympic Committee for many, many years, so I appreciate those that are in great shape, and they were just so agile and the way they moved was very—just spectacular,” Scott said.
Shen Yun, based in New York, was established in 2006 and showcases classical Chinese dance and music.
“There’s some things on there culturally I was unaware of, so it’s kind of been educational as well as entertaining,” said Jerry Wyatt, owner and operator of Springs Pet Waste Removal.
“What a shame it is that mainland China doesn’t allow themselves to appreciate this part of their own culture. It’s such a wonderful part of the culture,” said Rachjaibun.
“A few times I almost kind of teary-eyed— I don’t know why, so it was very kind of emotional uplifting, and kind of a spiritual experience,” Scott said.
Alex Valentine, worldwide account manager with FedEx, said, “It inspired me for the goodness of humanity across all oceans and all peoples no matter where they’re at, whether they’re in China, or the United States, or in Europe or Africa, South America.”
A Shen Yun performance cannot be seen in China, due to the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to suppress freedom of belief. Shen Yun’s mission is to revive authentic traditional culture inspired by spirituality.
“I think it’s wonderful. Divinity and faith is very real. I truly believe myself as well. It’s where we come from, and it’s our history. It’s our heritage after all, and we need to respect it,” said Martin Doremus, adviser and owner of Health Protection Consulting.
“Hopefully, people see the deeper meaning other than just a really great show,” Haley said.
“And to persecute people for trying to love one another and lead a peaceful, meaningful life it’s awful. It’s absolutely awful. But it’s wonderful that [Shen Yun is] trying to share the message with everyone because I didn’t know this story. I didn’t know this story before this performance,” Rachjaibun said.
Scott said he would tell his friends, “This is something that they should see at least one time for sure.”
“It’s a story worth telling,” he added.
NTD News, Colorado Springs, Colorado
