SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS REVIEWS

Doctor Enjoys China’s Old Historical Culture in Shen Yun

Jan 03, 2026

1/3/2026Updated: 1/3/2026

BIRMINGHAM, UK—Shen Yun Performing Arts enthralled the audience at The ICC Birmingham 1 on Jan. 3, including Dr. Sherif Latif, who was enjoying the performance with his daughters.

“It’s lovely,” Dr. Latif said. “It’s lovely to see the Chinese culture—the old historical culture. I’ve never seen anything like it before.”

After receiving a flyer by mail, Dr. Latif said, “Okay, one day, we'll try it.” He said he didn’t know what to expect. “It surprised me how elegant it was.”

The present communist regime continues to this day to suppress and persecute the Chinese people, particularly people of faith. “I wasn’t aware of this before. I think the show just highlighted it.”

Shen Yun’s mission is to revive “China before communism.” Many pieces in the performance feature the myths, legends, and spirituality of an ancient culture that thrived before communism. Dr. Latif said he thinks Shen Yun’s mission is very relevant today.

Shen Yun performance features a live orchestra that harmoniously blends Eastern and Western instruments in original compositions. Many in the audience comment on how the music enhances the stories and dancing on stage.

Another part of the Shen Yun experience are the singers. Dr. Latif found the tenor’s performance very touching. “Emotionally, I like the opera singer,” he said. “It was beautiful.”

A popular aspect of the performance is Shen Yun’s patented digital backdrop, which allows the stories told to jump in and out of the digital landscape. “It [had] impressive special effects as well. Very nice,” Dr. Latif said.

Dr. Latif’s daughter, Lara, especially liked one dance story; the story of the peacock fairies, where they soar through the heavens with the help of special effects.

When asked if he would recommend Shen Yun to friends and family, Dr. Latif responded, “Definitely.”

Reporting by Zhan Na and Yvonne Marcotte.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.