SPRINGFIELD, Ill.—Shen Yun Performing Arts visited the heart of Illinois on April 8, a mild and clear evening, bringing to Springfield a taste of ancient Chinese culture and virtues. Sangamon Auditorium was filled with enthusiastic theatergoers, most seeing the company for the first time.

“I’ve never seen anything like it before. I’ve seen a lot of shows and that was beautiful visually, absolutely mind blowing,” said Rachel Shepherd. The yoga instructor attended with her husband, Scott, a business manager.

Based in New York, Shen Yun began in 2006 when a group of classically trained artists joined with the aim to revitalize traditional Chinese culture.

Mr. Shepherd’s impression was that it was a great performance, and noted the visuals by saying it was “stunning in terms of the color and the movement.”

“It was uplifting and interesting and, you know, it was very positive,” he said.

The performance is comprised of folk dance and classical Chinese dance, accompanied by a full orchestra of both Eastern and Western instruments. Award-winning singers and instrumentalists complete the evening. All are adorned in colorful costumes, set against vivid backdrops.

Ms. Shepherd left feeling glad she came.

Reporting by Cat Rooney and Sharon Kilarski

New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has four touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world. For more information, visit Shen Yun Performing Arts.

The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time. We have proudly covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.