SAN FRANCISCO—Dr. David Menshew, a professor for the University of Massachusetts, and his wife Sharon purchased tickets to see Shen Yun Performing Arts after hearing raving reviews from people around them. “I’ve heard about this for years. I’ve heard a lot of people speak very highly about the amazing dance and art.”

“Granny told us so much about [China.] Seeing it on stage was pretty emotional because I know what my grandparents went through and my parents also,” Mrs. Menshew said.

She added that it’s wonderful to see authentic Chinese culture in the United States because it’s important “for everyone to understand what people have gone through to get here and to share these stories. So many people were beaten for trying to speak the truth or just to live free.”

Since its founding, Shen Yun has grown to include eight equally-sized companies that tour the world simultaneously each year. On Jan. 7, seven of its eight companies performed. However, Shen Yun is currently forbidden by the communist regime to perform in China.

Dr. Menshew thought Shen Yun’s mission to bring back traditional culture is very noble and inspiring. “I’ve actually traveled a little bit in China. You wouldn’t see this there. [Shen Yun’s] message needs to be spread,” he said.

“There are a lot of uninspired people [after] living through the pandemic and all the things we’ve seen over the last few years. I think they need inspiration, and [this show] provides that.”

Referring to Shen Yun performers’ artistry Dr. Menshew said, “there are people who can access excellence through focus and I think that’s a lot of what you see here. From musicians to speakers to the performers on stage—they are focused and dedicated to their ideals.”