Shen Yun Performing Arts concluded its final performances in Australia last week, performing at the Sydney Lyric Theatre from April 27 to May 7. Audience members in Sydney commended the company for its artistry.
Theatergoers said they could see and feel the values of ancient China presented on stage.
“A very beautiful heart and soul is behind this. It’s very obvious,” said Sophie York, a barrister.
“The Shen Yun performance that I had the privilege of witnessing is a wonderful combination of culture, and a deep message,” said Eric Abetz, a former Liberal Party senator.
“I thought it was a great performance. I thought the stories and everything was interesting and the way it was all put together,” said Warren Mundine, a businessman and director of the Center of Independent Studies (CIS) Indigenous Program.
Eric Abetz, a former Liberal Party senator, said he found Shen Yun’s expression of authentic Chinese culture through music and dance liberating.
“So a wonderful combination of culture, history, and the modern-day and bringing a message to the world of what’s going on in China, and also the importance of there being something above and beyond what’s going on today, and that is what we need, hope, and that comes through a faith,” Mr. Abetz said.
Every year, Shen Yun showcases stories that bring China’s 5,000-year-old history to life. Moving from ancient times to the modern day, the company depicts stories of virtue, hope, loyalty, and compassion through its many vignettes.
“I think they have a very strong message through the choreography, and I think they’re very passionate about what they do. So they’re true professionals in all they do,” said Alex Ganji, the CEO of Rushing Water Billiards.
“I think because it comes from the heart, it comes from the heart and from the soul, and the message is so pure, and art and music is something the whole world can identify with irrespective of where you come from or what language you speak, everything comes back to that. It comes from the soul,” said Noeleyne Wilson, the principal of The Ballet School Australia.
One of the themes Shen Yun illustrates is the return to traditional values. Some audience members drew attention to that—calling it refreshing in today’s modern world.
“The singing was beautiful, and the words were universal, modern life is in many ways degenerate, and we need to return to more fundamental aspects of truth and honesty and virtue,” said Fred Pawle, a TV host and journalist at ADH TV.
“I think it’s good to see that you have eight of these groups traveling around the world spreading the message of compassion, hope, and peace, and also showcasing the journey of ancient China,” said Sameer Pandey, the deputy mayor of Parramatta.
Ancient China was once known as “the land of the divine,” where it was believed that the culture of China was brought down from the heavens, influencing all areas of society.
But this divine culture was almost lost after the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) seized power in 1949. The CCP saw China’s ancient culture as a threat and for decades sought to destroy its traditions.
“For people to know the truth and to know about history, and to see it such a beautiful way, is very important and significant,” said Pallavi Sinha, who is a lawyer and public notary at Lawyers With Solutions.
Theatergoers also touched on the combination of Shen Yun’s live orchestra, dancing, and digital backdrop.
“It’s great to see that obviously their technical training from when they were young to now as adults has really been, is showcased in this talented show. It’s amazing,” said dance teacher Belinda Kirkness.
“And you feel part of the show because of the movements, because of the combination of the screen, and that really is terrific,” said Jess Diaz, a city councillor of Blacktown City Council.
“I’m just loving it, I’m loving it, we’re sitting right in the front and looking down into the orchestra pit. It’s fantastic,” said musician Peter Jaggle.
“It’s a feast for the eyes, it’s a feast for the senses, it’s so magnificent, it’s just a joy to behold,” Ms. York said.
NTD News, Sydney, Australia
