RIVERSIDE, Calif.—Business owner John Lopez and his wife Cathleen, a retired medical professional, had long been encouraged by friends to see Shen Yun Performing Arts.
On the evening of April 25, at the Fox Performing Arts Center, the couple finally checked it off their bucket list.
“It’s beautiful,” Mrs. Lopez said during intermission. “I think that all of the little synopsis and storylines that we’re learning are all beautiful.”
Its program is comprised of a series of short pieces that take its audience on a ride through the dynasties and across the vast regions of China. Using classical Chinese, folk, and ethnic dances, as well as solo musical performances, Shen Yun tells tales from ancient times to the modern day.
“It’s just amazing. It’s been amazing. Everything—so far, so good,” she added.
Mr. Lopez agreed, saying, “It’s been a great show.” He looked forward to enjoying the rest of the performance.
According to Shen Yun website, the classical Chinese dance we see in China today is heavily mixed with military and modern dance styles. Only at Shen Yun can you find it performed in its purest form—the way it was originally passed down through the generations.
Reflecting on the company’s mission to bring back traditional culture, Mrs. Lopez said, “We’re learning so much that we didn’t know.”
Last but not least, Mr. Lopez would like to send a message to all of Shen Yun’s performers and tell them to “keep up the great work.”
“You guys are doing a fabulous job. It’s amazing. We look forward to the next time.”
Since its establishment in 2006, the New York-based Shen Yun has earned widespread acclaim. Each year, the artists present a brand-new set of choreography and musical compositions, ensuring that both new and returning audience members are always in for a surprise.
