RALEIGH, N.C.—China’s rich display of ancient culture, as presented by Shen Yun Performing Arts, left Judy Newell seeking more.

“I want to learn more; the way it was presented was just beautiful,“ she said. ”I’m going to do my homework.”

A retired executive assistant, Mrs. Newell was at the Duke Energy for the Performing Arts on Jan. 11. She was accompanied by her husband Ronald, who was employed by Goodyear Tire Company in Raleigh, for many years.

“I enjoyed the dancing and the fact that most of the performers seem like they were just floating; it was so well choreographed,” Mr. Newell said.

Shen Yun draws top artists from around the world, the company website explains. With a passion for the classical arts, the artists joined Shen Yun in its mission to revive a culture that was once almost lost to 60 years of China’s communist rule.

“I totally enjoyed it. if you followed the program, you could see some of the history that was presented through the story and dance. I did enjoy that,” Mr. Newell said. “Outstanding, lively.”

Chinese dance is at the heart of what Shen Yun does. Known for its incredible flips and spins, and its gentle elegance, it is one of the most rigorous and expressive art forms in the world.

Also, the many ethnic groups within China and around her borders provide a wonderful array of material from which to choreograph and compose. These dances might whisk audiences away to the plains of Tibet, the shores of a Dai village, or the sprawling plains of Mongolia.

“Fabulous,” Mrs. Newell said.

Reporting by Thai Ton and Raiatea Tahana-Reese

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.