MONTREAL—Snow-covered streets showed winter held sway in Montreal on the afternoon of Jan. 5, but inside the renowned Place des Arts theatre, audiences experienced the warmth of Shen Yun Performing Arts.
After every performance during Shen Yun’s sold-out five-show run, the theatre resounded with applause. Some people wiped away tears, while others’ faces were bright with smiles.
Alan Simpson was in the audience Saturday afternoon. The former UK member of Parliament who is now working on climate change issues was in town visiting his in-laws. He and his wife were eager to see Shen Yun, which had been highly recommended by close friends.
After the show, Mr. Simpson was invited by New Tang Dynasty Television to share his impressions.
“The show is lovely,” he said. “I think that one of the things that the West doesn’t properly understand is just how rich and diverse Chinese culture and history are. The show is very good at capturing how wide and deep the culture is.”
Mr. Simpson was also impressed by the artistry and spirituality of the show.
“Artistically, it is beautiful. It is just completely filled with grace and as a planet we could do with all the grace we can find,” he said.
Established in 2006, Shen Yun has since been acclaimed as the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company. With a mission to reclaim and renew China’s divinely inspired cultural heritage, the New York based company has toured over 100 cities on five continents.
“Any company from any culture that is taking a message of peace, tolerance, reflection and spiritual grace is something to be welcomed,” said Mr. Simpson.
