AMSTERDAM, Netherlands—Audience members in Amsterdam were deeply touched by the spiritual content imbued in the Shen Yun Performing Arts show, presented at the popular cultural RAI Theatre.
Mr. Newman, co-owner and president of a well-known company, came with his Chinese-born wife to see the New York-based show on Saturday, April 18.
He said that his exposure to Chinese culture was rather limited.
"It was much more than I expected. This show is unique, unusual, and I was very impressed with everything I saw—a kaleidoscope of color and so much energy emanating from the show.
"I truly loved the colors, and the costumes were fabulous. I was impressed by the backdrop pictures—and then the choreography was also exceptional.
"I truly enjoyed everything, it was done exceptionally well—very spiritual, had much depth, and was very profound, much more than we find in the West."
He understood quite well why this show would be banned in mainland China.
"The symbolism about ascension. I asked myself how well this would come across under the communist system, because of this part, as well as the symbolism of a life after death."
He knew all too well that the communist regime in China didn't believe in life after death. Therefore, "It was in their nature to be against spirituality. "
Mr. Newman said that his wife had seen last year's show, and now this one, so they definitely won't miss next year's performance.
"Next time we'll bring along our daughter, who will be very excited about this."
Studio manager: 'This show was so different'
"The show is very acrobatic and the dance flows ... the dancers are very impressive," he said, amazed with the difficulty of the complex movements.
He was blown away by the colors awash on stage, especially the exquisitely colorful costumes, which were outstanding and very pleasing to the eye, he said.
"Spirituality is in my thoughts quite a bit, but I must admit I have had my doubts lately.
"This was so different. I agree with the message of hope that the show brought to us. Without hope, we wouldn't survive in this world.
"The artists on stage appear to be very friendly. This is truly a friendly group of people."
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of the Shen Yun Performing Arts 2009 World Tour. For more information please visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org