WASHINGTON, D.C.—In Shen Yun Performing Arts, theatergoers frequently report discovering a message of hope. For audience members Mike Reilly and Andrea Montealegre, Shen Yun showed hope, truth, and faith.

“I thought it was deeply moving. It was very beautiful,” said Mr. Reilly, consultant, on the opening night of Shen Yun at the nation’s capital on Jan. 24 at The Kennedy Center Opera House.

“The dancing and superb musicians and the music told the beautiful story and the ancient story. I’m glad I got shared with this part of the world,” he said.

“I’m originally from Nicaragua, another country that has been affected by, not communism, but by socialism,” said Ms. Montealegre, a UX designer. “My personal experience of communism comes from the Latin American version of it. China is suffering tremendously.”

“Because I think there is a moment that is deeply touching, touching the heart and soul. It is about joy and great sadness too. Persecution goes on in China. There is a message of hope too. Not just the Chinese people are hurt, but all people,” she said.

“The scenes, the background, even though they are a small part of the show: oh, beautiful Chinese towns and beautiful houses they live in every day. And then the women dancing for the emperor out of respect, of the hierarchy, they have governance and leadership to take care of the country. It was so beautiful, but all is lost. All is lost with communism. It has consecutively proven that communism does not work,” she said.

“I am curious to hear how these came about,” she said. “It came from somewhere.”

“I would love to learn more about the Chinese history,” she said.