GLASGOW, Scotland—The evening show of Shen Yun Performing Arts delighted the audience at SEC Armadillo in Glasgow on Feb. 13. Janice Stillie, a photographer, called Shen Yun “breathtaking.”
With her artistic eye, she enjoyed everything that went into producing Shen Yun’s stories in dance. “It’s just wonderful. It’s educating us, so we’re really enjoying it,” she said.
The 3D animated backdrop intrigued her, also. “You felt as if it was just so real just the way it was all coordinated, where the dancers were just like jumping into the backdrop. It was just blending in and effortless. It was just really like 3D, [or even] 5D.”
Through classical Chinese dance and music, Shen Yun is sharing with the world the beauty of China’s authentic 5,000 years of history. Since its founding in 2006, the company has received worldwide accolades for its mission to revive traditional Chinese culture.
“I think it’s good for us to see it, to be educated on it as well because we came here with an open mind, not really knowing too much about it, and just picking up [the story] from the dancing and from your hosts as well,” she said.
The spiritual aspect connected with Ms. Stille. “I have faith as well. Quite touching, some of it actually.”
She had words of support for the performers. “You are doing an absolutely wonderful job. We can see how hard you’ve been training, and your passion for your dance definitely shows in your work.”
‘So Beautiful, Before Communism’
Istraha Abraham, a translator, and Adam Burdelski, director of a construction company, enjoyed many dances in the production. Ms. Abraham noted the beauty of Chinese culture before communism. “So beautiful, before communism. Yes, beautiful. Beautiful.”
She wondered how such a beautiful program could be banned in China.
As for the magic of the animated backdrop, it was so real that Ms. Abraham said, “I thought: what’s going on? I wish I could be there. Just beautiful.”
Mr. Burdelski appreciated the song “Only the Creator Can Save You.”
“We believe it, of course,” he said.
To the performers, Ms. Abraham said, “Continue like that. I wish you all the best.” And Mr. Burdelski said, “Come back to Glasgow a lot.”
With shows scheduled in over 200 cities and across five continents, the 2024 touring season is shaping up to be the artists’ busiest yet.