FOLSOM, Calif.—Tony Julian and Candice Chavez saw Shen Yun Performing Arts for the first time on Jan. 7 at the Harris Center.

“It’s impactful. You’re drawn into the storylines, and I got emotional a couple times from some of the stories and how the performers draw you in,” said Mr. Julian, a utility worker.

“The vibrant colors, the dancing, the music, it’s just spectacular,” said Ms. Chavez, a financial advisor.

“I think it’s interesting, the story of someone’s belief being crushed—persecuted for simply what you believe in. I don’t like that aspect. You see it around the world. So it’s unfortunate,” Mr. Julian said.

Although Shen Yun is sharing the beauty of Chinese culture with the world, it is unable to perform in China.

“It’s great to paint a picture of what’s happening and what’s going on. The fact that they can’t even have this performance in China speaks volumes. I think freedom is something we should all have. You should be able to believe in and do as you wish,” Mr. Julian said.

“How they integrated the screen with the actors, that’s pretty interesting,” he said.

Shen Yun’s website states, “ancient Chinese clothing was inspired by the attire worn in the heavens.”

“That was amazing,” he said. “I like that aspect of how the colors and the dress were inspired by what they felt was in heaven.”