ORLANDO, Fla.—As a surprise for his wife, John Rivera, CEO and entrepreneur, drove her two and a half hours from Jacksonville to attend the Shen Yun Performing Arts concert at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

“My wife tried to see the show in Argentina and was unable to do it, so I surprised her today, and I brought her here to see the show,” said Mr. Rivera on March 16.

“It was an excellent performance … the orchestra was outstanding,” he said.

Mr. Rivera was impressed to learn that classical Chinese dance and music have roots in ancient Chinese culture, dating back 5,000 years.

“It had a very deep cultural aspect to it, and the music combined with the dance was telling a real story,” said Mr. Rivera. “The combination of all of it really hit home.”

One of Shen Yun’s unique features is its orchestra. It’s the first in the world to permanently combine classical Western and Chinese instruments within a Western symphony orchestra.

“When I listened to the cues and the music, it sounded like the music was being played off of a DVD or a CD,” he said. “The orchestra was exceptional.”

“To see someone make that kind of sound with that kind of depth with two strings is phenomenal,” he said.

“I think more young people should see it [Shen Yun] because it sends a message,” he said. “It’s important for young people to understand that music [and culture] goes back thousands of years.”

Formerly in show business for 25 years, Mr. Rivera understood and appreciated the depth and commitment of Shen Yun.

“It’s a pleasure for both of us to be here,” he said. “I’m glad that we were able to make it tonight.”