“It’s just very enjoyable. A lot of the history, the history of this country 400 years ago. Obviously, this [China]goes back thousands of years,” he said.

Through classical Chinese dance and music, Shen Yun is sharing with the world the beauty of China’s authentic 5,000 years of history. Since its founding in 2006, the company has received worldwide accolades for its mission to revive traditional Chinese culture.

He saw a connection with his own ancestry in escaping persecution. “My ancestors came over to start this country 400 years ago to escape persecution in England,” he said.

Mr. Gilger said he liked how the story was told through the dancers’ movements: “They make it very easy to follow the story even though it’s a different culture. So just from the costumes and from the expressions and the dance, it makes it easy to follow the story.”

Mr. Gilger said that Shen Yun’s spiritual message in each story “talks about perseverance, and how by living life you get through life. Through different parts of your life, you learn different things. How having thoughts and ideas and being able to express yourself is how we all get through life.”

Mrs. Gilger noticed how Shen Yun’s artistry connected people of all persuasions. “I just think the art of it brings everyone together, I think everyone appreciates how beautiful [Shen Yun is].”