MADISON, Wis.—On the evening of April 11, at the Overture Center for the Arts, Shen Yun Performing Arts delivered its second of two performances. 

Among the night’s theatergoers was Medeline Ayers. Ms. Ayers is a retired graphic designer. She once worked for Scripture Press, a former Chicago-based Christian publishing company.

Ms. Ayers commented, “I think it’s beautiful, the colors and choreography, and just everything is beautiful, very well done.”

Shen Yun is “an extraordinary journey across 5,000 years of Chinese civilization! With classical Chinese dance, live orchestra, dazzling costumes and animated backdrops, Shen Yun will transport you to another world,” according to the company’s website. 

Shen Yun features digitally designed HD backdrops that the performers interact with at key moments throughout the performance. At the same time, the dancers don intricate handmade costumes in brilliant colors. 

“I am enjoying the visual presentation, the colors, the choreography,” she added.

Each Shen Yun program consists of 20 or so mini dramas that depict scenes from China’s 5,000 year history, classics from its literature, and legends and myths. 

The dancers are accompanied by a full-orchestra featuring both Eastern and Western instruments. Several segments also feature solo vocalists with piano accompaniment. 

“I am enjoying the songs, and the words they have that go along with it, and the content. It makes me want to read more,” she said about the music and the songs. “It gives me a little more insight into what’s behind the visuals.”

Throughout its history, China’s ancient traditions and culture were considered divinely-inspired and bestowed by heaven. Ms. Ayers pointed out that it’s evident that spirituality is part of the traditional Chinese culture. 

“I thought it was interesting that there was a passage where it talked about how people came from heaven,” she said. 

With reporting by Stacey Tang and Andrew Darin

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