PHILADELPHIA—Shen Yun Performing Arts left audience members in amazement after it performed at Philadelphia’s Merriam Theater on Tuesday May 8.
Zoran and Aida Murko, husband and wife psychiatrists from Florida, but originally from the former Yugoslavia, were enthused by the performance.
Mrs. Murko called Shen Yun “very unique” and said she “enjoyed it very much.” The performance, she added is a “good learning experience.”
Shen Yun tours the world with the aim to revive traditional Chinese culture that was nearly lost under six decades of communist rule, the company says on its website.
Shen Yun uses classical Chinese dance and different ethnic and folk dances throughout the program and combines that with an engaging visual backdrop, as well as orchestral music that joins classical Western and Chinese instruments.
“The combination of music and visual [presentation],” impressed Mrs. Murko. “They made it so alive,” she said.
Mr. Murko said, “It’s really a combination of visuals and music, and stories about traditional culture and … life’s meanings.”
He noted the company’s precise choreography “is so unique and so professional,” adding, “I’m glad that I did attend it.”
Shen Yun features ancient legends and stories passed down throughout China, but there are a few present-day pieces that touch upon China’s human rights situation. The performance depicts the persecution of Falun Gong, a mediation practice based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance.
Being from the former Yugoslavia, a communist state, Mrs. Murko said “we could relate definitely” to the modern-day pieces.
In watching Shen Yun, she said it is “good for everyone to know more about cultures, different cultures, and open up your souls and minds; learn about each other, respect each other, understand each other.”
Reporting by Shar Adams and Jack Phillips.
Shen Yun Performing Arts, based in New York, has three touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world, with a mission to revive traditional Chinese culture. The season concludes this month with performances in Philadelphia, Honolulu, San Antonio, and Buffalo.
For more information, visit ShenYunPerformingArts.org.
The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.
