WASHINGTON—Shen Yun Performing Arts took the stage at The Kennedy Center Opera House on Friday evening, March 23, matching elegance and style in a performance that pleased the audience.
“This is my eighth time seeing it,” said Gina Sacripanita, director of business development and marketing at The Washington Examiner. “With the exception of one show, I have been to every show that has played in D.C. I love the new additions.”
New York-based Shen Yun presents an all-new performance every year, displaying the grandeur of one of the most ancient cultures in the world—the 5,000-year-old, divinely inspired Chinese culture, according to the music and dance company’s website. Shen Yun was formed to revive this culture after it was nearly destroyed by more than 60 years of communist rule in China.
“Sophisticated dance techniques, an orchestra joining instruments East and West, beautiful costumes, and a stunning back drop—this is Shen Yun at first glance,” states the website. “But digging deeper, one discovers a sea of traditional Chinese culture. Mortals and divine beings merge on stage as one. Principles such as benevolence and justice, propriety and wisdom, respect for the heavens, and divine retribution, all come to life, washing over the audience. Originating from Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, these ideals are the essence of traditional Chinese culture.”