Shen Yun Performing Arts has received a warm welcome back to Toronto for rescheduled performances later this month after six shows at the Four Seasons Centre were cancelled due to hoax bomb threats linked to China.
“Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on the successful rescheduling of your performance following the unfortunate disruptions caused by recent bomb threats,” Bezan wrote in his letter.
“The challenges you faced were undoubtedly difficult, yet your ability to continue your performances despite such obstacles demonstrates remarkable courage and commitment.”
The threats were similar to more than 150 incidents targeting the New-York based classical Chinese dance company’s performances during its global tours over the past two years.
Bezan said Shen Yun “brings to life enduring values such as truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance,” which he noted are principles that “resonate deeply” with Canadians and reflect the values of a free and democratic society.
“Canada is proud to uphold freedom of expression, freedom of belief, and cultural diversity,” he said. “Performances such as Shen Yun not only enrich our communities but also serve as a meaningful expression of these freedoms.”
In his letter, Seeback noted that Shen Yun’s 2026 season marks its 20th anniversary performing around the world.
He said Shen Yun celebrates “5,000 years of traditional Chinese civilization rooted in the universally shared values of compassion, courage, faith, and human dignity.”
“Thank you to the Falun Dafa Association of Toronto for, once again, bringing the highly acclaimed Shen Yun to Toronto for Canadian audiences to enjoy,” Seeback wrote.
“After 20 seasons, Shen Yun’s stunning performances involving outstanding classical music and dance continue to uplift and inspire audiences here and around the world, while highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage and freedom of expression.”
‘China Before Communism’
Shen Yun was formed in 2006 by leading Chinese artists whose stated mission is to revive China’s traditional culture, which the company says has been diminished under decades of communist rule. The company performs around the world with the tagline “China Before Communism.”Bezan noted practitioners of Falun Dafa have been subject to “cruel and inhumane” attacks and experienced atrocities at the hands of the CCP.
“These brutal crimes must be stopped now, the victims never forgotten and those responsible for this disgusting atrocity must be brought to justice,” he said, adding that Canada has tools to sanction foreign officials responsible for serious abuses.
Bezan said he commends the efforts of the Falun Dafa Association of Toronto for its “continued dedication in presenting this inspiring performance and contributing to the cultural richness of our communities.”
Even though police found that the threats to the Four Seasons were not credible, the Falun Dafa Association said the upcoming shows will proceed with additional safety measures, including metal detector gates, police dog services, on-site police patrolling, and a professional security team to ensure the safety and smooth delivery of the performances.
