SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS REVIEWS

First Generation Chinese Theatergoer Loves Shen Yun

May 10, 2025

5/10/2025Updated: 5/10/2025

HONOLULU—Barbara Chin is a first-generation Chinese who came to see Shen Yun Performing Arts because she wanted to experience true Chinese culture.

“The performers were excellent. It was so beautiful. Beautiful costumes, beautiful dancing,” said Ms. Chin, a massage therapist.

Shen Yun is based in New York, and its artists are trained in classical Chinese dance, one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world. Shen Yun’s artists are also trained in various Chinese ethnic and folk dance styles.

Ms. Chin shared that “Men’s Tibetan Dance” and “Dance of the Golden Phoenix” left a deep impression on her.

“The peacock dance was beautiful. I loved it,” she said.

Many of Shen Yun’s dances pay homage to the divine. Ms. Chin was able to recognize one of the Goddesses from Chinese culture.

“The light of enlightenment within, that’s what I felt tonight, was enlightenment was really within and not from the outside. It was very beautiful. And the Guanyin, I love that too. It was all very beautiful,” Ms. Chin said.

Shen Yun’s live orchestra is a unique combination of traditional Chinese instruments and a classic Western ensemble.

“The music was beautiful. I love the orchestra. I love the music,” Ms. Chin said.

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

“What I loved more than anything was the flying, the backdrop on the screen with the flying. A lot of the flying and the expansion of the Buddha, and the Buddha giving the light. And I love that part and how it all synchronized with the dancers,” Ms. Chin said.

Reporting by Yeawen Hung and Maria Han.

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