CHICAGO—After seeing Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Civic Opera House, Erin Callahan was left feeling completely enlightened and inspired, so much so, she thought she might have trouble sleeping.
Ms. Callanan, a clinical manager for a medical device company, and nurse educator Nancy Seymour, came out to the Windy City on March 15 to see an evening performance of Shen Yun.
“For 5,000 years divine culture flourished in the land of China. Humanity’s treasure was nearly lost, but through breathtaking music and dance, Shen Yun is bringing back this glorious culture,” according to the company’s website.
Overall, Ms. Seymour thought the performance was beautiful and passionate. She also really appreciated the message that she felt was coming across to her.
There are several segments of the program that depict contemporary China and the persecution of Falun Dafa, which is a peaceful meditation practice that follows the guiding principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance.
Having been to China several times, Ms. Seymour has a heart of empathy for what she calls “a beautiful place with beautiful people that are oppressed.” She feels that people in China should have a right to worship as they please, be happy, and not live in fear.
Ms. Seymour thought that the way Shen Yun has used this kind of art form to pass on this message is brilliant.
“I feel very strongly that people should have a voice,” she said, and the freedom to choose a spiritual path, “and I’m very inspired to learn more about Chinese culture and to travel China,” Ms. Callanan added.
Ms. Callanan felt it was a very profound performance and afterwards felt completely enlightened.
“I’m just very enlightened,” said Ms. Callanan before she went on to explain that she interpreted many messages relating to the spiritual aspect of Chinese culture that carried the idea of a spiritual journey.
Giving an example, Ms. Callanan mentioned reincarnation. Although she said it’s a new concept for her, it is at the same time interesting and something she plans to explore.
“I would recommend it to everyone,” Ms. Callanan said. “It was very, very passionate and just beautiful and inspiring, and I think we’re going to have trouble sleeping tonight.”
Ms. Seymour would certainly recommend the performance as well: “I think it’s very important for Americans to learn more about Chinese culture … I would highly recommend it,” she said.
Reporting by NTD Television and Andrew Darin
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.
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.
