With the holidays drawing near, New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts is gearing up for its highly anticipated 2025 world tour, featuring a never-before-seen set of choreography and programs.

As the world’s leading classical Chinese dance and music company, Shen Yun’s artists are committed to reviving China’s 5,000 years of divinely inspired culture—a treasured heritage nearly lost in the decades of communist rule.

The coming season will kick off on Dec. 23, with simultaneous performances in Nagoya, Japan, and Atlanta, Ga. Ahead of the artists’ arrival, many cities across the United States and around the world sent their warm welcome.

Mayor Kirk Watson of Austin, Texas, issued a proclamation naming Dec. 26, “Shen Yun Day.”

“Shen Yun is a brilliant artistic revival and celebration of China’s rich cultural heritage,” Mr. Watson said.

“[The performance takes] its audience from one legend, region, or dynasty to the next, from the magical Monkey King to the delicate elegance of Tang court ladies, from the timeless philosophical works of Lao-Tzu to spectacular scene of magical realms.”

Shen Yun’s performance is comprised of a series of short dance pieces presented in classical Chinese, folk, and ethnic styles. Together with solo musical performances and dances that tell a story, the artists brings to life a treasure trove of legends and traditions.

Since its founding in 2006, the company has grown into a global sensation, expanding from one to eight equally sized groups, each with a live orchestra. This year, the artists are set to visit over 200 cities across five continents, bringing the beauty of pre-communist China to audiences worldwide.

The Austin proclamation further stated that, in addition to historical dance pieces, “Shen Yun’s performances highlight the topic of today’s China, shedding light on the oppression many experience for their spiritual beliefs,” and “these tales of courage are often what audience members find the most touching and uplifting.”

Well-beloved for its vibrant music and cultural scene, Austin has consistently ranked among the best places to live in the United States. Since 2010, except for the pandemic years, Shen Yun has captivated local audiences, becoming a highly anticipated annual arts event.

This year, the company will be hosting five performances in Austin at the Long Center for the Performing Arts from Dec. 26–29, and another 10 performances at the Jones Hall for the Performing Arts in Houston, Texas, from Dec. 26 to Jan. 28.