Shen Yun delivered three shows at the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall in Tucson, Arizona, on Feb. 10 and 11. The New York-based company rekindles 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture through classical Chinese dance and music. Audience members were captivated by the performances.
Kathryn Bertine, an author and CEO of the non-profit Homestretch Foundation, said, “The show is wonderful. I love the storylines and how different the stories are and how much they tell us about Chinese cultures.”
“I think the flow of the storyline and the way that it interweaves dance and culture is beautiful, and it’s really well done,” she added.
Karen Rieter-Barrett, a therapist and business owner, said, “I loved it. It was wonderful. What a cultural experience and it just applies to all of us what we should be doing in our lives … just the kindness, compassion that all of us should have for each other.”
Sara Mirasola, an actress and comedian, said, “It was so beautiful. And especially the ethnic pieces, the cultural ethnic pieces, I absolutely loved the sleeve dance and the yellow blossom dances. And then the Mongolian dance for the men was gorgeous, too. I think those were definitely my favorites. But every piece was just magical.”
Shen Yun creates all-new, original musical compositions each year. Each performance is accompanied by a live orchestra that combines both Western and Eastern instruments.
Jana McConnell, the owner of Off the Wall Furniture Solutions, said, “I love that blend of tradition and the multicultural components, both Western and the Eastern instruments. So that was my favorite part, the music.”
Ms. Mirasola said, “Just the beauty of combining movement and music, it felt very healing to me. So I found it quite interesting when the speakers mentioned it—Paul said specifically later—that music is traditionally used as medicine because I really believe that it is.”
The essence of ancient Chinese culture and civilization is rooted in spirituality. Shen Yun brings forward these beliefs through their performances.
Maggie Romance, a director of Continuing Education at Pima Community College said, “I personally can relate to that. I think that that is something that we need more of and I am very appreciative to see that it’s being given to a larger audience.”
“I’m just very grateful that they take the time and the energy to embrace their beliefs and let it shine throughout the world? It’s great,” she added.
Ms. Bertine said, “I think no matter what one believes in terms of religion, or spirituality, I think this show still speaks to everybody on what it really truly means to kind of follow your heart and believe in something.”
“I think right now, we’re in a society that can sometimes be seen as a little bit lost or disconnected. So to have a show that promotes unity and togetherness is beautiful,” she added.
Shen Yun will perform next at the Orpheum Theater in Phoenix from Feb. 13 to 18.
NTD News, Tucson, Arizona.
