“My whole family and myself were absolutely taken away by it. Four of us joined tonight ... So, three generations. Absolutely wonderful to share this experience,” Beechwood said after watching the performance.

“The compassion was opened in a way I didn’t think could happen in a public performance,” said Beechwood who is a live event producer and director.

“So, my gratitude to the producers, to the performers, to all the artists and minds and hearts involved,” he said.

“I was just struck in so many ways, by the power of truth and art and dance and beauty, to communicate in a way that media can’t,“ he said, adding that: ”Media can be censored these days. And we don’t get to share these important messages that can transform hearts and minds.”

Beechwood said he was also moved by the overall message of the performance.

“The meaning of this performance is incredible,” he said. “I’ve researched many things about the atrocities in China, I’ve studied qigong for many years, and  I’m so blown away—the amazing impact of art and beauty and the ability to transform people’s hearts and minds.

“I think this is the antidote and the way to communicate what needs to change in China. I’m not afraid to say that. We need to stand up for what’s right. I’m so grateful.”

Being a spiritual person, Beechwood was further grateful for the spiritual aspects of the performance.

“Western minds really want to analyze and pick that apart but the soul message is so true. We are infinite spirits, we reincarnate in many lifetimes,” he said.

To summarize his feelings on the performance, he said: “Shen Yun is a transformative experience for body, soul, heart, and mind. Even if you don’t think that is a possibility, you will be taken and changed and awakened.”