“I didn’t realize that China at one time was a free country before communism. I just assumed it was always communism, so it’s really enlightening to see how a lot of people are trying to change it back to the way it used to be,” said Mr. Lindley, an operations manager.

Mr. Lindley expressed his understanding that “people want freedom again.” He added, “I’m glad to see that a lot of the Chinese people are trying to push it back to the way it used to be.”

Ms. Lindley, a paralegal, conveyed an appreciation for the revival of tradition, as seen in Shen Yun.  “I like keeping hold of traditions, not losing the old ways or the old traditions. I really appreciate that,” she said.

“It’s very enlightening to hear the story and to see the dance and to learn more about the classical dances and customs and beliefs,” she added.

Shen Yun’s artists are trained in classical Chinese dance, and according to the Shen Yun website, it is an art form that evolved through China’s different dynasties.

Mr. and Ms. Lindley complimented the artists.

Shen Yun also features dances from many of China’s ethnic minorities, such as the Mongolians and the Yi. Audience members often say that they leave the theater knowing more about China.

“It opens up the world in front of you, and lots of people learned a lot today. At least for me, it was quite educational,” said Ms. Lingard.