“We’re really enjoying the show. We love the costumes, the colors, the backgrounds. Some of the Chinese culture is coming through—the dances are really interesting as well. We’re having a great time,” Mr. O’Brien said.

“It’s a first-class effort. It looks great—all very talented,” Mr. O’Brien said.

“I thought it was really interesting that they’re not allowed to [practice their faith] and even showing [Shen Yun] wouldn’t be allowed in China. So it’s just interesting that they’re persecuted, and it makes me appreciate that we do have freedom of religion here in the US,” he said.

Shen Yun’s use of its digital backdrop is patented. The versatility of the technology allows the set to change scenes in the blink of an eye, giving the stage endless possibilities.

“The back screen and people jumping in and out of the screen, we love that. We go crazy for that,” Mr. O’Brien said.

“When he sang that song, it was very interesting. I really like the message in the song that he’s singing,” Mr. O’Brien said.

Mr. O’Brien appreciated seeing “the message that atheism and evolution are from the devil and that we’re truly here by God and we will go to heaven at some point.”

Bob Porter and his wife, Kate Porter, were also in the audience for this matinee performance.

“It’s wonderful. I wish that we had a history like China has. We only have 250 years,” said Mr. Porter, a retired accountant.