The couple were unanimous: Shen Yun was “breathtaking.”
“The athletic ability of the dancers is admirable, it’s incredible to watch [the performers] work their craft,” he said.
“Oh my gosh, [Shen Yun] was a colorful burst of dance and athletic ability and the costumes were amazing,” said Ms. Hay, a real estate broker. “And the exposure to [a] new and exciting [performance] was incredible. I learnt so much more about the dance history from China. It’s something that we don’t think about very often. It’s a great experience to be able to share a little bit more about the Chinese culture.”
“It’s incredible. I had no idea that so much of the Chinese dance techniques were borrowed and disseminated to other cultures,” said Mr. Logan. “The history of Chinese dance is incredible. And I don’t think you really get a chance to understand the breadth and the amazing ability until you actually get a chance to see it. It’s a fantastic experience.”
He applauded Shen Yun’s mission of reviving traditional Chinese culture.
“I think that we, as Americans, don’t get a chance to learn enough about other cultures, especially pre-communist China. That’s a great way for us to learn more about [Chinese culture.]”
“It really was quite amazing,” he said, adding how the Shen Yun hosts had commented on the expressiveness of a violin with just two strings.
Each piece in Shen Yun is introduced by emcees who give a brief overview to assist the audience.
“[The erhu brought up feelings of] joy and happiness,” said Mr. Logan. “It was a wonderful experience all together. I’m so glad we came,” he said.
Shen Yun reflects China’s traditional spiritual roots, which legend teaches were passed from heavenly beings to earthly mortals.
“I think religion is universal. Whether it’s Eastern or Western, Buddhism, Catholicism … it’s all related in a lot of ways. Everybody has a different version of God, but I think it’s all spiritual in nature,” said Mr. Logan.
“I think everybody has the right to practice what they believe in,” said Mr. Logan.
Mr. Logan explained that this was the first time he had seen Shen Yun and he looked forward to seeing it again.
“And hopefully, [Shen Yun] will come to the University of Florida in Gainesville. I think that that was something that they would really enjoy up there as well,” said Mr. Logan.
“I hope they get a chance to share their skills with the rest of Florida, not just in the major cities,” said Ms. Hay.