Classical Chinese dance is diverse, consisting of many flips, turns, and postures, and next to ballet, it is one of the most comprehensive dance forms in the world.
“Highland dancing is very strong and powerful, with a quick extension, whereas when I watch [classical Chinese dance], the strength came out so elegantly and really elongating each movement. So it’s really beautiful to watch,” said Ms. Armstrong.
More than their mastering of the technique, it was the dedication and unity of Shen Yun’s performers that made the experience so satisfying for Ms. Armstrong.“They didn’t just dance. They understood the music, and they really told a story within the rhythm of the music, which is what caught my eye, and the unison–everybody doing it all at the same time. It was absolutely beautiful,” she said.
Shen Yun ‘Divine and Uplifting’
Andrea Gaw-Prekob started dancing at age 5 and has had her own studio for 31 years, where she teaches ballet.
The female dancers of Shen Yun are “excellent, with beautiful technique, super fluid and just gorgeous, but strength behind everything, too. So it’s a nice balance of everything.”
Classical Chinese dance is very expressive and multifaceted.
Ms. Gaw-Prekob praised the dancers’ “expression through their hands, through where they’re looking, through their legs, their feet,” and noted that the use of props added to that expression.
“It’s just phenomenal with the fans and the flowers and [other props]. It’s like you’re right there and it’s real. It’s just amazing.”
For Ms. Gaw-Prekob, the overall experience was “divine and uplifting.”
“And you just feel it’s magical almost when you’re watching. And it’s lovely to see a different culture.”
Ms. Gaw-Prekob echoed the sentiment that the performers’ love of the art is apparent.
“They have to have discipline and respect for themselves, for their teachers,” she said. “And you see that coming through, that everything is very pure when they’re dancing.”
To anyone who hasn’t seen Shen Yun yet, Ms. Gaw-Prekob says, “You’re crazy. Come see it. Don’t wait.”
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.
