SAN FRANCISCO—Divine Performing Arts Chinese New Year Spectacular had its second to last day of performances on Jan. 25. In addition to the performance at the Orpheum Theater, there was a VIP reception. Charles Marsala, Council Member for the city of Atherton, California attended the VIP reception at the War Memorial Opera's Green Room early in the day and then came to watch the show for the second year in a row.
"I am impressed with the culture—the commitment to family, whether the younger generation or the older generation, the Chinese have such a bond and also to their ancestors—the 5,000 year heritage they teach and pass on is so worthwhile.
"We, Italians have our culture but it doesn't compare with what we see here in terms of the community, the way it focuses on that," commented Marsala.
"Americans could do well to assimilate a lot of the Chinese culture into our country," continued Marsala.
His favorite this year is the story of the lady going to the moon. He liked the message of the warrior in him defending the country.
"The outfits were so colorful and helped convey the warmth. It is a very nice touch to see the discipline that goes with the performance."
"Like seeing a good movie, like Forrest Gump the second time around, you get to go to the next level. I understand and appreciate it more this time."
"[I] don't quite understand the issue with Falun Gong [in China], the restrictions that exist. It is hard to comprehend as an American who is used to freedom, when it is taken away.
"I leave with a deeper sense of Chinese integrity."
Commenting on the various performances related to current issues Marsala said they left him contemplating.
"I was hearing about the Falun Gong on the periphery, now I plan to go home and research it. I feel motivated and moved by seeing this. You see this rich heritage of being able to dance and express and suddenly that freedom is gone and that is striking. Watching it happen, I was wondering what role, how America can help."
The last opportunity to see the show in San Francisco was the Jan. 26, 8:00 p.m. performance.
Starting on Jan. 30, the NTDTV Chinese New Year Splendor will play for 15 shows at Radio City Music Hall in New York City before beginning its world tour.
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Divine Performing Arts performances. For dates and times of their world tour visit: http://www.divineperformingarts.com/sy/ticket_info.
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