SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS REVIEWS

Norfolk Theatergoer Sees Shen Yun’s Pride in True Chinese Culture

Apr 24, 2026

4/24/2026Updated: 4/24/2026

NORFOLK, Va.—Josh Dart and Angela Dart saw Shen Yun Performing Arts on April 23, 2026, at Chrysler Hall.

Ms. Dart expressed that it was breathtaking to be a part of Shen Yun’s expression of beauty.

Shen Yun, based in New York, is on a mission to present “China before communism,” and revive people’s connection with 5,000 years of Chinese civilization and culture.

“The beauty of it is inspirational. It’s very inspiring. It’s beautiful to see a play or a culture show that doesn’t have any self-loathing or self-deprecation. ‘Hey, here’s our culture, and it’s beautiful, we hope you enjoy it,’” said Mr. Dart, lead consultant with the Evangelical Catholic.

Shen Yun’s artists are trained in classical Chinese dance, one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world.

“The costumes and the acrobatics are astounding. Visually beautiful,” said Ms. Dart, a humanitarian.

Shen Yun uses stories from China’s five millennia. Its dance stories also portray the modern true story of Falun Dafa practitioners being persecuted for their faith in China. Falun Dafa is a peaceful practice that teaches the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance.

“I have heard about the persecution of Falun Gong. I never really thought much about Chinese culture before communism. So this is really giving me a lot to think about,” Mr. Dart said.

Aside from classical Chinese dance, Shen Yun’s artists are also trained in various Chinese ethnic and folk dance styles.

Ms. Dart shared that she really enjoyed the Manchurian dance.

“The women who had really large head dresses on and the really beautiful gowns. To me, that embodied what I had already in my mind as most indicative of Chinese culture. So that was really beautiful,” she said.

Mr. Dart said, “The Water Sleeves was something else.”

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

“I was surprised by how dynamic the action was and how dynamic the screen play and the live actors were. And they have a lot of joy on their faces when they perform. It’s kind of contagious,” Mr. Dart said.

Reporting by Sherry Dong 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.