THOUSAND OAKS, Calif.—The audience at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza expressed their delight with the performance of Shen Yun Performing Arts on March 26. Audra MacCorkle, a veterinarian, found a connection with her love of dancing.

“I used to [dance] but I also write music, so I’m a singer. I’ve wanted to come for five years and finally made it, as one of my big goals,” Ms. MacCorkle said.

“There’s a lot of traditional value they’ve portrayed, even in the lyrics,” she said.

Ms. MacCorkle also liked the ethnic dances. She noted their artistry and beauty, especially the dance of the flowing sleeves. “I love the colors and the costumes. There was one from a village. It was really beautiful. I love the long flowing sleeves as well. I love the separation of the men and the women dancing. Then, when they come together, it’s really amazing,” she said.

Ms. MacCorkle said she could see the hard work the performers invest into the performance. “Especially the men. My goodness, their flexibility is incredible. I don’t know that I’ve seen the consistency of being able to do it over and over again. It really shows the athleticism as well.”

Shen Yun moved Ms. MacCorkle in a very positive way, she said. “I mean, I was very emotional, definitely. You know it’s very happy. You can feel the happiness and the joy in it. And then, you can feel the struggle as well, which is very heartfelt.

“It makes you think about what you can do to change, and what we [need to] have in the world to find more love and peace in general.”

Ms. MacCorkle expressed her appreciation to the performers. “Very inspiring,” she said. “I know how much hard work it takes to be at that level and I’m just so glad that they’re committed to doing this and sharing it with the world.”