DETROIT, Mich.—Shen Yun Performing Arts presents a panorama of authentic traditional classical Chinese dance and music, enchanting its audiences with a well-rounded display of China as it was in the pre-communist era.

“The choreography is absolutely incredible.”

Ms. Moyer was also impressed by Shen Yun’s use of technology to create dynamic backdrops.

The arrangement was excellent, she said.  “Everybody is in sync …  Nobody misses a beat.”

Shen Yun’s story-based dances portray the history of China’s dynasties, their heroes, and universal moral values.

Ms. Moyer was impressed by these stories and the way the dancers brought them to life. She even felt that she was part of the story itself.

“When [the dancers] move it …  feels graceful and humble, and the singing … was amazing, [and] brought all of it together,” she said.

“The message is just to be humble …  and true to who you are.”

The movements of the dancers and the colors created a dreamlike experience for her. She particularly enjoyed the artistry in the “Plum Blossom in Spring” dance, describing how the fans held by the dancers depicted beautiful flowers.

She also believed it was a learning opportunity for her daughters.

“It’s very educational and an experience that they’ve never had before,” she said. “It'll definitely make them well-rounded … people, open-minded and willing to learn about the world.”

Mr. Hamilton, who is a global accounts manager for Siemens, appreciated the traditional dance forms and instruments. He enjoyed the ancient two-stringed Chinese violin, the erhu.

“[It was] very, very peaceful, very serene, [a] beautiful instrument.”

The Shen Yun Orchestra, with its combination of ancient Chinese instruments and classical Western ones, was very engaging, he said.

“I believe that music is part of the healing process for sure,” Mr. Hamilton said.

He felt that the music and singing were peaceful and relaxing, but also energizing.