SALT LAKE CITY—Ian Howes, a content manager and platform analyst, could see from his seat how much passion the artists of Shen Yun Performing Arts had.

“This has been a phenomenal performance. I’ve really enjoyed the heart that the people have put into their craft, into crafting such a great performance. It’s been very emotional and very uplifting to enjoy,” he said.

“I love Shen Yun’s mission. I fell in love with their mission statement on their website on keeping Chinese culture alive. There’s so much worth preserving, so many great stories to tell, and so much hope and love that can be shared with the world through this performance,” Mr. Howes said.

“The costumes and colors have been magnificent. I’ve really enjoyed the stage production. Every time they flare out their clothing, it really lights up the whole theater, which has been really neat to observe,” he said.

Throughout the many dances, the one that really struck Mr. Howes was the dance story depicting the persecution of Falun Dafa practitioners in China.

“Definitely go see it. It’s exciting, it’s funny. I wasn’t expecting to laugh during the performance, but I laughed. And so it’s lighthearted and it’s magnificent. It’s touched so many different parts of the human experience, and I would highly recommend it to anybody who thinks about going,” he said.

Shen Yun’s use of its digital backdrop is patented. The versatility of the technology allows the set to change scenes in the blink of an eye, giving the stage endless possibilities.

“I love the projection at the background and how seamless they make it when they’re jumping on and off stage. It’s a great way of storytelling. I haven’t seen that before,” he said.