MINNEAPOLIS—“It’s just a spectacular show, and it shows much of true Chinese history,” said Minnesota State Representative Glenn Gruenhagen. He attended the Shen Yun Performing Arts’ presentation at the Orpheum Theatre with his wife, Emily, on Feb. 15.

“Through the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends, and modern heroic tales,” according to the company’s website.

Despite the fact that Shen Yun presents the legends and folk dances of China, the company is not allowed in China. Since the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), the communist regime has undermined and deliberately destroyed traditional ways and values.

“It’s unfortunate that, according to the reports, the Chinese government isn’t more open to having the true history of China actually displayed and played in their own country,” the congressman said.

State Representative Gruenhagen enjoyed the digitally animated backdrop and the dancing. “They’re doing a fantastic job,” he said. He would definitely recommend the performance to his colleagues.
“I know I couldn’t dance like that,” he said.

Ms. Gruenhagen also enjoyed the computerized backdrop, which seems to make the setting come alive as it interacts with the performers.

“Very talented,” she said of the performers and that she enjoyed the stories being depicted. Ms. Gruenhagen also explained that they had had a very difficult time getting to the theater because of traffic. They “should have gone around the lake,” she said.

Was it worth the difficult journey to attend?

“Oh yes,” she said.

Reporting by Valerie Avore and Sharon Kilarski

New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has four touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world. For more information, visit Shen Yun Performing Arts.

The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time. We have proudly covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.