McALLEN, Texas—After watching Shen Yun Performing Arts for the first time at the McAllen Performing Arts Center, company owner Normally Villarreal said the show was “a piece of heaven and earth for all of us.”

Though Ms. Villarreal learned about Shen Yun a few years ago while traveling for work, she never got the chance to attend until the evening of Feb. 3.

“It has been something that I have waited for so long, and I’m so pleased to be here. I’m thrilled to tears. I absolutely loved it,” she said with tears in her eyes.

Based in New York, Shen Yun was established in 2006 by a group of leading Chinese artists who had fled the persecution of the communist party.

Shen Yun is now dedicated to reviving these traditions and showcasing to the world, through dance and music, the beauty of China before communism.

“This performance really touches the soul, and your heart is filled with music and dance, and the message [it shared.] This message should be given to all the world so everybody can be united and feel more love for each other. The way it was presented here was so wonderfully artistic and professional,” she expressed.

“I really appreciated this message because this message elevates everybody, no matter your age, your culture, your beliefs—this elevates you in every way.”

While reflecting on Shen Yun’s short storyline dance that highlights the ongoing persecution of people of faith by the Chinese Communist Party, Ms. Villarreal said she believes that “justice and fairness can be brought in every part of the world.”

“We need respect because respect goes before love. When we have respect for others, then we can all be together as a unity in peace.”