WASHINGTON—Traditional Chinese artistry enthralled Scott Chronister during the performance of Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Trump Kennedy Center Opera House on Jan. 10.

Mr. Chronister, who does technical support for the U.S. government, said, “I thought it was really interesting to see the traditional Chinese art forms, and all the allegory, and the stories.”

In terms of artistry, Mr. Chronister said, “It had a lot of forms of ballet and other acrobatics, and then some of the traditional Chinese instruments. It’s very beautiful.”

“I think human rights are important around the world—everywhere. I think it’s important to maintain tradition and understand the history of a country and its culture,” he said. “I think the stories were all very effective.”

Shen Yun’s mission is to revive “China before communism.” China traditionally has a very spiritual culture. “I think people’s history and culture are very important to understand who they are. So it’s very important to maintain that,” Mr. Chronister said.

“It’s kind of enlightening,” he added. “It builds a foundation for our knowledge about the Chinese culture.”

Shen Yun emcees explain and introduce each piece in the performance, a journey through China’s 5,000-year history, in both English and Chinese, which Mrs. Jackins, a retired bank supervisor for the Federal Reserve, appreciated.

“What’s really nice about it is the explanation, when the two people come up, and they talk about what you’re going to see, so you have an idea of what you’re looking at. A lot of times, you go to performances, and it’s just one after another. This is really nice. It’s perfect,” she said.

Mr. Jackins agreed. “I think the music adds so much to the show. It’s uplifting.”

Mrs. Jackins liked how the performers could dramatize the story through movement. “The expressions that they have with their hands and everything helps you follow along with the story.”

“I hope they continue to do this so that their culture continues and people can continue to see it,” she said.