PHILADELPHIA— Engineer and Consultant Drew Peregrin first experienced Shen Yun Performing Arts two years ago in Detroit. On May 8, he returned—this time to the Miller Theater, bringing his mother-in-law as a special Mother’s Day treat. Happily, Shen Yun did not disappoint.
“It’s an enjoyable evening. … The acrobatics were superb, very bright costumes, a lot of the music is interesting—it’s a different kind of music than I’m used to,” Mr. Peregrin said.
The performance “showed a bit of history of China, its [spiritual] background, the emperors, and all the different parts of China— Shen Yun brings all that together in the dances. That’s just happy and fun.”
Based in New York, Shen Yun is the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company, dedicated to reviving China’s rich culture, nearly lost under decades of communist rule
Using classical Western orchestration as the foundation, Shen Yun’s original compositions highlight traditional Chinese instruments such as the two-stringed erhu and the pipa—an ancient Chinese lute. Bringing to its audience the best of both worlds.
Reuel Ravin and Roland David enjoyed Shen Yun's matinee at the Miller Theater on May 8, 2025. Frank Liang/The Epoch Times
Reuel Ravin and Roland David, who both work for Amazon, fell in love with Shen Yun as soon as they entered the theater.
“I love it. I like the colors, the synchronicity of the dance. It’s beautiful,” Mr. David said.
He appreciated the traditional values conveyed through Shen Yun’s story-based dances, which draw from both ancient legends and modern-day events.
Mr. David was very moved by the spiritual element of the performance and by the strength of the performers in standing up against persecution by the Chinese Communist Party.
“The integrity of their belief—they believe in something that is not acceptable in their country, but they still practice against all odds, and then take it and show it to the world—for the world to learn something from them.”
Though Shen Yun is well-beloved by audiences around the world, due to its commitment to reviving traditional Chinese culture and raising awareness for the human rights issues still ongoing in present-day China, it is currently banned by the ruling Chinese regime.
Mr. Ravin will be bringing home with him from the performance the pure beauty and joy of Shen Yun.
“The scenery, the costumes—it’s very beautiful—and the dedication that these actors have. Amazing.”
This season, Shen Yun’s eight touring companies brought their stunning performances to over 200 cities around the world. With a brand-new program each year, every season offers fresh surprises for both first-time attendees and returning audiences alike.
