ADELAIDE, Australia—Early Adelaide was shaped by religious freedom and a commitment to civil liberties. This led to world-first reforms, like giving women the right to vote. Today, it is still a city focused on progress, renowned for its music and film festivals, food, wine and culture. Hosting Shen Yun Performing Arts for the second time, it took another giant step into the future.
Songwriter Robert Pickering and his daughter, Ms. Pickering, attended the premiere at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Monday, April 6. “I love Chinese music. It is very, very moving and traditional. When you hear it, you’re sensing that there’s not just 10, 20, or 100 years, but thousands of years of history bringing all that forth, so it’s very moving.”
Mr. Pickering’s favourite performance was Heaven Awaits Us Despite Persecution. “I’ve seen evidence of the persecution,” he said, having spent time in China before.
The opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture was another stand out element of Shen Yun for Mr. Pickering. “I think it’s something not to be missed, because it’s a brilliant spectacle, and it’s a window into 5,000 years of culture. It’s something that you don’t have in this country, and it’s a window into a huge, beautiful country with a lot of people, a lot of history, and a lot of culture.”
Ms. Pickering, a dancer and dance teacher at Dance FX, was astounded by the level of professionalism displayed by Shen Yun. “The professionalism of these dancers and their technique and the youth, the youth is just incredible.
“You look at these girls and they’re younger than me. And especially in the Heaven Awaits Despite Persecution, the young girl could have been no more than seven or eight, and the professionalism that she displayed, her face, her technique also was just absolutely incredible, and I think that’s what made it really, really grab you as well.”
Their high praise for Heaven Awaits Us Despite Persecution continued, with both father and daughter agreeing the performance told a story and delivered a clear message.
With only two more Adelaide shows, Mr. and Ms. Pickering strongly recommended people see Shen Yun. “Go and see it. I don’t think it’s something that you need an acquired taste to enjoy. It’s something that everybody can understand and enjoy no matter where you’re from or what you’re interested in,” Ms. Pickering said.
In a final statement, reflecting the ideals that shaped early Adelaide, Mr. Pickering said, “These people are showing what you can do with freedom, and if people in Australia are free to go and see the show, then they should!”
Nina Smyhe contributed to this report.
For more information please visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org
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