World-Class Performer Steven Wang on Discovering the Power of Dance in America

In America, world-class dancer Steven Wang discovers the true depth of his art—and its power to tell the stories of the voiceless on stage

Wang performs the Tibetan dance piece “Khata for the Gods,” from Shen Yun’s 2012 program. Courtesy of Shen Yun Performing Arts

It had been a few months since Steven Wang last spoke to his parents, located halfway across the world in China. He knew that every time he phoned, the Chinese authorities would be listening in via wiretapping, so he avoided calling too often.

He started by asking simple questions, the way he always did. In these conversations, Wang couldn’t really share with his parents about his new life in America or about his recent experiences performing as a principal dancer at world-renowned theaters. The information could become ammunition for the Chinese regime, which keeps a watchful eye on those like Wang and his family who have been labeled enemies of the state because of their faith.