INDIANAPOLIS—Jesse Walker and his wife, Ava, both supervisors at the Department of Transportation, were amazed by the incredible talent of Shen Yun Performing Arts dancers after attending the company’s evening show at Clowes Memorial Hall on March 22.
These “water sleeves” were a feature of ancient Chinese feminine attire, symbolizing humility and grace. Light and airy, they billow and flow on stage, evoking the gentle movement of water.
2025 marks the couple’s fourth time attending Shen Yun. They enjoyed every aspect of the performance so much that it kept them coming back.
Based in New York, Shen Yun is the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company dedicated to reviving China’s rich culture nearly lost under decades of communist rule. Its performances feature a series of short dances highlighting various regions of China, as well as solo musical pieces.
Mr. Walker appreciates the performers’ efforts. Though he comes from a different background, he still felt a strong connection to Shen Yun’s mission, noting that traditional Chinese culture and values are “very similar to our culture and our spirituality.”
“I’m just glad that they’re able to perform and show us the side of the culture,” Mrs. Walker chimed in.
A big fan of music, Mr. Walker was delighted by the presence of a live orchestra and loved how it seamlessly collaborated with the dancers and the innovative 3D digital backdrop to enhance the storytelling.
“The music is nice. It’s very in time with [the dances]—sends it home,” he said. “It makes you feel like you’re there, in the backdrops. Very vivid, very 3D. I like it.”
This season, Shen Yun’s eight touring companies are bringing their stunning performances to over 200 cities worldwide. With a brand-new program each year, the company’s 19th anniversary marks another season full of fresh surprises for both first-time and returning audiences alike.
