DALLAS—Shen Yun Performing Arts, the New York-based performing arts company, opened its 2012 world tour Friday evening, Dec. 16, at the AT&T Performing Arts Center, Winspear Opera House. The Dallas audience was enchanted by the presentation of classical Chinese dance, music and song.
Ken Villalovos, publisher for an arts and culture magazine, came with Nadine Jones, a brand manager. “I’ve never seen anything like it; it’s beautiful,” Ms. Jones said.
Mr. Villalovos was equally in awe. “I love it, it’s amazing. Obviously I love all the storylines—I really love the transition from the screen to the live performance on stage.”
Animated backdrops transport the audience to another world. Projected behind the dancers, the hi-tech images lift the stage and set it amidst blossoming landscapes, deep forests, Mongolian prairies, or celestial paradises, states the Shen Yun company’s website.
Mr. Villalovos was particularly bedazzled by the costumes. “I think the costumes are amazing, the colors, it just brings it all to life,” he said.
Shen Yun presents hundreds of gorgeous, hand-made garments that span China’s dynasties, regional, and ethic groups.
“The vibrant colors—I didn’t expect it to be so in my face—I love it. It seems the colors jump out at me—it’s the dance as well, but I think it’s a combination of the two,” he said.
The publisher was also enjoying the presentation of stories from the rich and diverse cultural history of China.
“It doesn’t matter where it comes from, it’s just the messages that I’m getting. The good versus evil, persecution of certain beliefs. I think the messages, no matter where you are, I think you'll run into them. But I love to see how they’re [Shen Yun are] bringing that message to us,” he said.
Mr. Villalovos mentioned that it was his first time seeing Shen Yun and he was looking forward to seeing the performance again in Houston in a few days, where Shen Yun is scheduled to perform six shows.
Reporting by Catherine Yang and Anna Stute.
Shen Yun will perform at Winspear Opera House through Sunday, Dec. 18. For more information visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
