Shen Yun debuted in Rhode Island last year at PPAC to enthusiastic audiences in March, and its return to the Ocean State’s capital city is eagerly anticipated.
Governor Donald Carcieri issued an official greeting to Shen Yun Performing Arts “on the occasion of their appearance in Providence, Rhode Island, as part of their 2010 World Tour.”
Providence Mayor David Cicilline welcomed the company and the hosting organization, the Falun Dafa Association of New England, with a letter in which he wrote: “Word of this delightful world-class show has been spreading throughout our community. This outstanding display of classical Chinese dance and music is sure to captivate audiences of all ages as well as inform them of important events in recent Chinese history.
“Our New England region is proud of its extensive and dynamic Chinese community and the rich cultural heritage it supports and shares through events such as this dazzling dance and music spectacular.”
The nonprofit Shen Yun Performing Arts “came into being in 2006 with a vision of cultural renewal,” says the company’s website, and “seeks to revive the true, five-millennia-old artistic tradition of China that thrived before decades of suppression by the Chinese communist party.”
In an all-original production that is new each year, Shen Yun performances include choreography that has classical Chinese dance as its foundation, music that incorporates both Western and Eastern instruments, costumes that are stunning in color and design, and stage backdrops that use state-of-the-art digital technology.
In Celebration
Members of the U.S. Congress from Rhode Island also welcomed Shen Yun to the state.
Sen. Jack Reed expressed his greetings in a letter, saying: “This extraordinary show enjoyed seven full-houses at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and is now here in our capital city of Providence. …
“This performance has stemmed from 5,000 years of classical Chinese dance and culture, along with artistic creation, and modern refinement that give this unique art form its own essence and spirit. Rhode Islanders are fortunate to have the opportunity to witness this unique cultural experience during this 2010 World Tour.”
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse sent his greetings in a welcome letter to the Falun Dafa Association of New England, wishing all involved with the production “the very best.”
Rep. James Langevin issued a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to the Falun Dafa Association “in celebration of the opening of the Shen Yun performance.”
A Momentous Occasion
Shen Yun Performing Arts consists of three companies, each with its own orchestra. They have graced the stages of the world’s top theaters, including such U.S. venues as The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, New York’s Radio City Music Hall, Chicago’s Civic Opera House, and the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco.
Providence City Council President Peter Mancini, in his letter of welcome on behalf of the Council, said that “the City Council is thrilled that Providence is one of more than 100 global destinations to experience the distinctive, enriching cultural identity” that Shen Yun expresses and called their appearance “a momentous occasion for the city of Providence.”
Providence is an ideal venue for Shen Yun. Not only is it one of New England’s oldest and largest cities, but it also has a rich ethnic and artistic cultural heritage. The city’s website refers to Providence as “The Creative Capital.”
“Ethnicities are often defined and distinguished by artistic expressions. Not only do they entertain; they educate and inspire, creating appreciation and respect for different cultures,” wrote Mr. Mancini. “Here in Providence, city and state leaders have gone to great lengths to facilitate the livelihood of local artists, and to uphold the freedom of expression that our forebears deemed essential to a free society.
“Sadly, oppressive, unjust barriers in other countries continue to silence and break the human spirit. The Shen Yun production exemplifies the power of resolve to break through these blockades of oppression. The bold determination of this festivity represents the fundamental, universal human right of freedom of expression.”
Shen Yun Performing Arts will present two shows at PPAC, on Saturday and Sunday, June 26 and 27. For more information please visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
