WASHINGTON, D.C.—Lisa Martin, executive director of an arts non-profit, saw Shen Yun Performing Arts the first time it took the stage at the Kennedy Center in the nation’s capital more than a dozen years ago, and has made a point to see Shen Yun’s new programs every few years since then.
“I love the artistry,” Ms. Martin said on Feb. 25. “It’s such a visually stunning show, and everyone is just so wonderfully talented and such a wonderful showcase of ancient Chinese traditions. Beautiful.”
New York-based Shen Yun, established in 2006, is the world’s top classical Chinese dance company. Through
music and
dance, Shen Yun aims to revive 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, sharing with audiences the beauty of China before communism.
Ms. Martin said the artistic level of
Shen Yun was just “exceptional, very high,” and the artists displayed “excellent skill in dance, music.”
“There are breathtaking moments,” she added. “You know, you rarely see such exceptional talent.”
The
performance inspired profound reflection for Ms. Martin.
“It made me think about the
spiritual side of life also, and how certain things in our life like beauty, and love, and having a sense of purpose, and helping others is important to keep in our daily lives,“ she said. ”The theme of the show is to try to make a better life for everyone. So following principles of many different traditions of peace, love, and faith in the beyond.”
She said she wanted to express her gratitude to the
artists, who she knows have brought joy to many.
“They’re fabulous and we really love to see them every year,” she said. “They’re excellent. ... I know many people who have seen the show over the years and they love the show. It’s very magical.”
“It’s still singing in my heart,” she said.
Reporting by Sherry Dong and Catherine Yang.
