AUCKLAND, New Zealand—Namphon Bennett, owner and pageant director of Miss Earth New Zealand, said she was enchanted by Shen Yun Performing Arts and its celebration of true Chinese culture at Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre, in Auckland.

There was power in the messages behind a lot of the stories Shen Yun presented to the audience as well, she said.

Ms. Bennett said she saw in Shen Yun the promise of a China where everyone is just “able to live peacefully and happily, and celebrate Chinese culture.”

Ms. Bennett said she could appreciate Shen Yun’s presentation of “China before communism,” as she is 50 percent Thai, which is a “very similar culture.”

“As you know, the Thai culture came from the Tai tribe from China. And so for me, it resonates a lot.

“We believe the same—that we were once divine,” she said. “And so for me, it’s like seeing the beginning of where I’ve come from.”

Shen Yun’s two-hour performance, plus an intermission, showcases 18 dances and vignettes inspired by China’s myths and legends, rich spiritual traditions, as well as stories from modern times, including the oppression of culture and spirituality, highlighted by the communist party’s persecution of the spiritual practice Falun Gong. Falun Gong teaches meditation exercises and encourages practitioners to live in accordance with the universal principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance.

“I think it’s just been so creative. And the way they’ve been able to blend very traditional with some very modern storytelling is just so unique,” Ms. Bennett said.

“And it’s so beautiful.

“If you’re interested in Chinese culture, and even just in the performing arts, definitely come and check out Shen Yun,” she said.