“We’re really enjoying it. It’s different from anything we’ve seen before. We’re used to seeing classical ballet, but this is ... lovely as well to see,” said Kyra Cullinan, a doctor.

Dr. Cullinan came to the performance with her mother, Nonna Drinnan, who is retired.

“We were just commenting on the difference between classical ballet and this. Particularly, we were talking about the walking. The way they walk is very different,” said Dr. Cullinan.

Classical Chinese dance uses quick, small steps called “yuan chang”, which gives the illusion of the dancer floating across the stage. These steps contrast greatly with the ballerina’s pointe technique.

“They’re very technically competent and so elegant. It’s wonderful to watch,” said Ms. Drinnan.

Shen Yun’s dancers rehearse every detail before the start of the new season to give the audience the best experience.

“They’re so coordinated. I don’t know how. It must take hours and hours of practice,” commented Ms. Drinnan.

“Quite honestly, we had no idea that it will not be allowed in China now,” said Ms. Drinnan.

She also shared her appreciation for Shen Yun’s efforts to allow more people to understand what is happening and what China is like without communism.

“It’s great that they’re coming, that they’re touring around as well and coming to places like this where we wouldn’t necessarily see and hear about the culture,” she said.