PITTSBURGH—Oronde S. Sharif, lecturer and major advisor in the Department of Africana Studies at the University of Pittsburgh, “thoroughly enjoyed” Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Benedum Center on Feb. 15.
Mr. Sharif, a recipient of ACTA Awards for Best Music, Best Choreography, among others, said: “It was an excellent show. I enjoyed the historical aspect of it ... the Chinese cultural aesthetics that was presented in the dancing, and the live music, and the storytelling.
“I loved the digital backdrops and how they infused that with the dancing and with the live action in the show.”
Being a teacher of African dance, Mr. Sharif commented on how “cultures have specific dance styles and techniques that really enforce who they are as a people, so I enjoyed that coming out from the show.”
Oronde S. Sharif, who was recognized as Best Lead Actor, could appreciate the dancers’ performance from a professional perspective. “They were amazing. I was thinking I would probably have pulled something, pulled a muscle, if I did something like that.”
He also spoke highly about the performers’ stamina and endurance. “They put so much energy out there. ... I would have been on the floor if I was doing that.”
Mr. Sharif was impressed with the cosmological aspect of the performance. Since ancient times, China has been known as the “Celestial Empire.” It captures a profound meaning, describing a land where the divine and mortals once coexisted. It refers to the belief that the divine, through various dynasties, transmitted a rich and abundant culture to the Chinese people, says the company’s website.
Mr. Sharif said: “I wish I could have brought my students. I really wish they would have been able to come and experience the whole cultural aspect of it, and understanding … through dance.”
Sophisticated dance techniques, an orchestra combining instruments from East and West, beautiful costumes, and a stunning back drop—this is Shen Yun at first glance. But looking deeper, one discovers a vast plain of traditional Chinese culture.
“You get a true understanding of the people and the culture. I enjoyed the whole thing. I thoroughly enjoyed it,” concluded the dance teacher.
