SYDNEY—Chinese-born Parramatta Councillor John Hugh chose his seat well at the Capitol Theatre on Feb. 12. The local government official saw the renowned New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts for the second time and he was pleased.
“This is my second time to see Shen Yun. Each time has left me with a different impression,” Cr. Hugh said. “I feel that Shen Yun is a rich Chinese culture show.”
Cr. Hugh bade a happy Chinese New Year, the Year of the Snake, to the performers, staff and audience members of Shen Yun, as well as the Chinese community, and friends on behalf of himself and the Parramatta Mayor, John Chedid.
“May you enjoy health and good fortune in the new year,” he said.
For the elected official, the experience revived the magical feeling of the holiday, and a sense of his heritage.
“This is truly experiencing the Chinese New Year!” Cr. Hugh said. After leaving China 20 years ago, “gradually I lost that excited feeling about Chinese New Year. So this is a great reminder [for me].”
“After seeing Shen Yun I really feel I am experiencing the Chinese New Year, that I am an ethnic Chinese experiencing the Chinese New Year.”
The official appreciated his vantage point under the eaves of a starlit domed ceiling. He could see details of the choreography.
“This time I was sitting in the front row seeing all the different kinds of ethnic dances. I didn’t realize before how intricate the dancing is and how many postures there are, so many different styles of dance and foundational skills. I learned a lot this time.”
Sophisticated dance techniques, an orchestra joining instruments East and West, beautiful costumes, and a stunning back drop—this is Shen Yun at first glance, the company website says. But digging deeper, one discovers a sea of traditional Chinese culture.
“Principles such as benevolence and justice, propriety and wisdom, respect for the heavens, and divine retribution, all come to life, washing over the audience.”
Reporting by NTD Television and Raiatea Tahana-Reese.
Shen Yun Performing Arts, based in New York, tours the world on a mission to revive traditional Chinese culture. For more information, visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
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