COSTA MESA, Calif.—On the second night in Costa Mesa, audience members continue to be “mesmerized” by Shen Yun Performing Arts New York Company, the internationally-acclaimed classical Chinese dance and music company. Anna Dorosh, a professional ballroom dancer, understood the different facets that have turned Shen Yun into a global phenomena within only a few short years.
Ms. Dorosh exclaimed, “I think it was fabulous, absolutely unforgettable. I really think the dancers and musicians did a beautiful job. ... I think what I learned is through the language of dance, I learned about Chinese culture, which was really educational as well.”
After studying dance for two decades, Ms. Dorosh appreciated the precision and skill of the Shen Yun choreographers and dancers. “I think it was great, and I can see a lot of hard work that was put behind it. I think it was absolutely fabulous!” She continued, emphasizing the sheer beauty of the show:
“The costumes were great and decorations were great. So, I think in general, it turned out as a really beautiful, wonderful show!”
Shen Yun incorporates stories that span China’s 5,000-year cultural heritage, ranging from ancient legends to modern-day stories. Whether they are stories about the courage of legendary monks or the fortitude of Falun Gong practitioners who are persecuted today in China.
Ms. Dorosh recognized the depth of Shen Yun, stating, “I think in general it was really magical. I really got a great feeling about the show.”
Her friend, Kasia Ishtar, a spiritual adviser from Poland, was equally enamored with Shen Yun. Glowing, dancing, like one of the performers, she floated over to speak about her experience: “I really feel like flying now! Just wonderful! Mesmerizing!”
Eager to tell her story, she continued, “So I really felt the spirit of this performance, and it’s all about what I teach people, actually. Because it’s connected to Buddhist philosophy, which I really like, so I really enjoyed it. And I really sense the meaning of it, so it was amazing for me.”
As though Ms. Ishtar wanted the world to know, she emphasized, “The message is very important for the world, so they do a great job for people who have never experienced before this type of thing. And this philosophy, I think it’s really good for people to know, like people from different countries and to meet this culture. It’s beautiful. I really enjoyed the costumes and the gentle dance. Amazing!”
Ms. Dorosh chimed in, also urging those who have yet to see the show to go. “It’s something that I will remember for a very long time, that’s for sure.”
Reporting by Mandy Huang and Albert Roman.
New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has three touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world. For more information, visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
