PROVIDENCE R.I.—Professional dance instructor Diana Ricci came to see Shen Yun Performing Arts at Providence Performing Arts Center, on Feb. 22. 

“Oh it’s exciting, it’s entertaining. There’s so much Chinese culture being exposed through the dance movements. It’s wonderful, the costumes are beautiful. I love the effects of the staging, it’s wonderful,” Ms. Ricci said. 

New York-based Shen Yun revives China’s rich 5,000-year-old culture, displaying ancient legends, ethnic dances, and classical Chinese dance, as well as scenes from contemporary life in China. The performances are accompanied by a classical Western orchestra that also includes traditional Chinese instruments.

“Oh my goodness the choreography is wonderful. The timing, everything is so in unison, in sync, so perfect. It’s absolutely beautiful,” Ms. Ricci said about the dance.

Classical Chinese dance is one of the most complex dance systems that exist—having been continuously enriched over 5,000 years of Chinese history. It combines movements that convey feminine grace, along with more dramatic leaps and tumbling techniques, influenced by traditional martial arts.

But Ms. Ricci loved more than the dance. “I love the costuming, the costuming is absolutely fantastic. Just the colors, it’s so vibrant,” she said. 

Costumes are an integral part of Shen Yun. Brilliant colors are used in the recreation of hundreds of new pieces each season. The hand-made garments span China’s dynasties, regions, and ethnic groups, according to the company’s website.

In addition, Shen Yun features a state-of-the-art digitally animated backdrop. Blending projection technology with ancient culture, Shen Yun’s animated backdrop presents scenes from celestial palaces to Tang Dynasty pavilions, giving audiences insights into China’s long history. The backdrop aids in the storytelling, allowing performers to move from stage to screen.

“It’s just amazing,” said Ms. Ricci, who also has a recommendation for her friends: “I'd say come on out and see the show.” 

Reporting by NTD Television and Valentin Schmid

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.