Shen Yun Performing Arts successfully closed the curtain—on 3 performances in Fukuoka, the company’s last stop in Japan. Audience members welcomed them—with a packed theater and thunderous applause.
“The performance moved me to tears. My mother also came. She cried and kept wiping her tears with a handkerchief. It was really a touching and wonderful stage. This is not only Chinese culture, but also deeply touching for Japanese people,” said Koichi Murakami, the director of an acupuncture institute.
“The whole stage seems like a dream-like world. It’s really great,” said Masatoshi Arimitsu, a former executive.
“I was shocked from the moment the curtain opened. The beauty was touching. The costumes were also outstanding. Every artist enjoyed it, and at the same time they had a cohesiveness. Unknowingly, I seemed to blend into the background. It was so wonderful and delightful,” said Yasuichi Hara, a company president.
“[The music] is very good. Listening to it is exciting and refreshing. [The erhu performance] is full of passion and power, which is great. The fusion of the Erhu and the symphony orchestra is rare, but it sounds fresh,” said Hidekazu Oishi, a physician.
Shen Yun draws its inspiration—from 5,000 years of traditional Chinese civilization and virtues—and presents them through classical Chinese dance and music. Audience members said they valued the opportunity to learn about that ancient culture.
“This felt like my first contact with Chinese culture. I felt the innovative spirit of Shen Yun, and I felt comforted watching the performance. Explanations were added to the performance to make the program more understandable. It’s exciting and enjoyable,” said Shinji Fujii, the director of the Judicial Scrivener’s Office.
“Chinese traditions are remarkable. Although Japan has its own traditions, China’s traditions have a longer history, including many ethnic groups and a lot of diversity, which is remarkable,” said Mihiro Daiji, a consultant.
Theatergoers pointed to Shen Yun’s artistry—and unique way of storytelling.
“Not only is their energy powerful, but their spirit is also transmitted through them. I’m very touched,” said Yoshio Nagasato, the former president of the Systems R&D Company.
“Many people in Japan are looking forward to Shen Yun’s performances, and I hope Shen Yun can perform throughout Japan in the future,” said Tatsuo Akagi, a former executive.
“Shen Yun uses its own form of expression to present Chinese traditional culture to everyone. It’s a very good thing. Japanese people will also resonate with it,” said Mochikazu Yoshitoshi, a hospital chairman.
Shen Yun presents an all-new program for audience members to enjoy every season—including new dances, music, and stories.
NTD News, Fukuoka, Japan
