SAITAMA, Japan—Yuki Kawasaki has won awards at multiple beauty pageants, and in 2022 she was selected to be a representative of Japan. On Jan. 8, she experienced Shen Yun Performing Arts and found herself feeling refreshed because of it.
“I feel refreshed,” said Ms. Kawasaki, who was particularly impressed with Shen Yun’s unique orchestra.
“I often enjoy symphonies, and Shen Yun’s orchestra included oriental instruments such as Erhu and Pipa, which made me feel like I was in China. It was very interesting,” she said.
“I used to play in an orchestra, so I was surprised by [Shen Yun’s] unique instrumentation. The musicians gave the music great energy,” said Ms. Kawasaki, who plays the harp.
‘I found this to be fascinating’
Japan started the year as a victim of natural disasters. Osamu Yamakuchi, an IT company project manager, shared that seeing Shen Yun has renewed his optimism.
“Although various things will happen, we should maintain a positive attitude and move in a positive direction in the new year,” said Mr. Yamakuchi.
Although there is violence in the world, Mr. Yamakuchi found that Shen Yun’s performance was an ode to peace.
“[Shen Yun] showed people’s longing for peace, instead of fighting, as well as the value of love,” he said.
“I’ve seen Chinese movies before, but I’ve never seen Chinese dance, so I found this to be fascinating,” said Mr. Yamakuchi.
“Their movements from fingertips to hands were beautiful. Their legs were raised high, and their balance was excellent. They could jump and turn effortlessly and smoothly,” praised Mr. Yamakuchi.
Shen Yun’s costumes are handmade and tailored to each dancer. The design of each costume is inspired by depictions of attire worn in the heavens.
