Vienna, known as the City of Music, will once again host Shen Yun Performing Arts Jan. 23 through Jan. 25 at the Wiener Stadhalle, Viennese City Hall, Halle F.
The New York-based performing arts company has become popular the world over since its inception in 2006, and Vienna is no exception.
“This performance came as a surprise to my wife and myself. Actually, we had certain expectations. Yet what we saw tonight was beyond these expectations. It was a terrific and fantastic performance and is far above anything we could have imagined,” said Senator Kommerzialrat Burkhard Ernst.
“I’m so fortunate to see this breathtaking performance. It was so fascinating that at times I did not dare to breathe,” said Gerlinde von Spannring, a professor of art and culture.
Shen Yun’s mission is to revive the traditional culture of China before communism.
Albert Eibl said that Shen Yun’s message was received with open ears and eyes: “My mind was told of kindness, cosmopolitanism, tolerance for all cultures, and that one should accept others’ traditions. Such a message is of great value, especially since it can teach Westerners to return to traditional values.”
Shen Yun’s stories are accompanied by a live orchestra and original compositions.
“What a marvel,” said Lukas Medlam, composer, violinist, and pianist. “There is no one in Vienna who could write this type of composition. Musicians in this city are more inclined to write contemporary music. That’s why it is so refreshing to hear Shen Yun’s music. It is based on old traditional musical forms and brings harmony to its audience.”
This type of music is unusual, he says, and no one other than the Shen Yun musicians can compose and present this type of music.
Dr. Thomas Danemark was aware of the persecution of religious believers in China. Shen Yun is banned in China.
“The message by Shen Yun is very courageous, and it is very important,” Dr. Danemark said. “Suppression must be eradicated everywhere. And when it is done through music, dance, and acrobatic, it hurts the soul. Yet, I’m encouraged and glad that it is shown and that it indicates that suppression is something that does not belong to a culture.”
This year, as Shen Yun is set to perform in over 200 cities around the world and across five continents, the 2025 touring season is shaping up to be the artists’ busiest yet and a glorious treat for theatergoers.
