BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom—Shen Yun Performing Arts played to a full house for the second of their shows at Birmingham’s ICC on 15 April.

The New York-based company seeks to revive 5,000 years of civilisation through the depiction of ancient myths and legends as well as modern tales of courage. These are brought to life through classical Chinese dance as well as ethnic and folk dances.

One of the attractions of the show is the exquisite colourful costumes drawn from China’s diverse dynasties and ethnic groups.

Art studio manager Gerry Smith was clearly impressed. “It was quite spectacular—the colours, and there were quite a few surprises. It was very well worth seeing.”

One of the unique features of Shen Yun is it’s innovative use of digital projection. According to the company’s website, “Shen Yun’s digital-backdrop team creates vividly animated settings, extending the stage and transporting the audience to a world where heaven and earth are one.”

Referring to performances such as The Monkey King Thwarts The Evil Toad, where characters appear to jump out of the backdrop, Mr. Smith said: “The interaction with the backscreen was quite interesting, which I wasn’t expecting. I haven’t seen that before.”

For anyone contemplating seeing the show as it continues on it’s world tour, Mr. Smith had the following advice: “I'd highly recommend you go and see it. It’s worthwhile.”

Shen Yun Performing Arts World Company goes on to Dublin’s Convention Centre for performances on April 19th and 20th.

Reporting by Rosemary Byfield and Simon Miller

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.