SAN DIEGO—Anna Engel, an accountant, said she had heard that Shen Yun Performing Arts was a “once in a lifetime” experience, and she was happy to report that it was true.

“It sure is,” she said. “It sure is ‘once in a lifetime.’ It’s so beautiful.”

Ms. Engel attended Shen Yun Performing Arts at the San Diego Civic Theatre on Saturday afternoon, and she said the brilliant colors of the costumes and backdrop, as well as learning about traditional Chinese culture, struck her the most.

During intermission, Ms. Engel said she had enjoyed everything about the performance.

“There’s not a piece that I don’t like so far,” she said.

“I love the song she sang. I thought that was very beautiful, and it teaches us a lot,” Ms. Engel said. She added that the message she received was, “You’re very connected to God. I felt it.”

Ms. Engel said she’s always wanted to come to Shen Yun, and fortunately, this year she was finally able to come. She said the performance left her with a feeling of inner peace.

“It’s so peaceful,” she said. “Very lovely.”

“Thank you so much,” she said. “They are extraordinary. They’re wonderful, and I’m sure it takes a lot of work. Oh my goodness.”