ROUEN, FRANCE—On Jan. 11, the ancient Roman city of Rotomagus welcomed the best of Chinese classical dance and music for the first time.
The performance at Zenith in Rouen was sold out, with residents of Rouen and Normandy turning out in large numbers to experience Shen Yun Performing Arts.
Among them were Christophe and Sophie Goret, who came with their family to embark on a journey through 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture.
“I found all the scenes extremely vivid, almost magical. I loved it,” said Mr. Goret, who is the director of the Village de Marques McArthurGlen Paris Giverny.
Mr. Goret said he was particularly impressed by the rigor and discipline of Shen Yun’s artists. “It’s very highly professional,” he added.
The couple was also deeply moved by Shen Yun’s music: “It’s so different from what we usually hear in France,” he said.
“It’s a truly unique message,” said Mr. Goret, adding, “It’s a side of China that we don’t know.”
For Mr. Goret, Shen Yun brings “a little wisdom, a lot of serenity, and a real perspective on our daily lives.”
Sophie Goret added: “A huge congratulations for all the work that went into this.”
‘Truly Magical’ Artistic Journey
Mathilde Santais-Sobry, real estate program manager, described Shen Yun as “truly magical” and “incredible,” highlighting the artistic performance’s remarkable quality.She was impressed by the dancers’ excellence, while the sets and the orchestra, both precise and captivating, contributed to creating an exceptionally immersive experience.
Ms. Santais-Sobry described the music as deeply soothing, which helped the audience become fully immersed in the performance. “You’re a spectator, but you’re really drawn in by the whole atmosphere,” she said.
Some of the performances particularly moved her, evoking intense emotion and sometimes bringing her to tears. She mentioned in particular the tenor’s performance, which gave her “goosebumps” and which she describes as “truly exceptional.”
The values conveyed by the performance—generosity, respect, and peace—made a deep impression on her.
She also noted themes in Shen Yun depicting persecution in today’s China, but said these are balanced by messages of open-mindedness and hope, which together offer a nuanced and meaningful vision.
Inspired by Shen Yun’s artistic power and message, Ms. Santais-Sobry recommended the performance without hesitation. In her opinion, it can serve as an essential reminder to our modern society: to return to certain fundamentals in a world that sometimes moves too fast.
She sent a message of admiration to the Shen Yun artists, praising their remarkable work. She highlighted the demanding nature of their daily training, their precision, and their sense of timing, which demonstrate exceptional dedication. “I admire them, it’s extraordinary,” Ms. Santais-Sobry said.
