Seattle Theatergoer Says Shen Yun Is ‘Pure Perfection’
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(L to R) Tanuja Joshi, Sanika Joshi, and Abhay Joshi at the Shen Yun Performing Arts performance at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall on April 2 2026. Frank Zhang/The Epoch Times
SEATTLE—Tanuja Joshi, Sanika Joshi, and Abhay Joshi saw Shen Yun Performing Arts on April 2 at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall.
“Pure perfection, elegance, grace—flawless performance, execution. Grand music,” said Tanuja, a professor.
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.
“I was really impressed by the Chinese culture. I think it should be preserved and promoted,” Tanuja said.
Shen Yun’s artists are trained in classical Chinese dance, one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world.
“I was blown away by the symmetry of all the dancers and how perfectly they’re all hitting. It was so synchronous. It’s amazing,” said Sanika, a software engineer.
Sanika enjoyed the dance, “Peacock Paradise,” while Mr. Joshi appreciated the dance, “How the Monkey King Came to Be.”
Tanuja shared that she liked the dance, “Scholarly Affection,” because of the young lady insisting that she get an education.
Shen Yun’s website states that Classical Chinese dance training includes three main components—technical skill, form, and bearing, which is one of the many ways that Classical Chinese dance is different from ballet.
“I can imagine how much hard work and long hours they must have put in to get this level of performance. I’m really impressed by that,” Tanuja said.
With 5,000 years of history and literature to draw from, Shen Yun is able to put on an all-new production every year.
“I love philosophy, so I love Chinese philosophy. I find [Shen Yun to be] very enriching, very spiritual. It’s not just dance music, it’s also very rich with philosophy,” Mr. Joshi said.
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’m a technology guy, so I love the integration of technology with the reality. It’s so seamless. So beautifully done,” said Mr. Joshi, a teacher.
The Shen Yun Orchestra, which tours with Shen Yun, is a unique combination of traditional Chinese instruments and a classic Western ensemble.
“It’s so perfect you can’t even tell it’s live in a good way. It’s so well done,” Sanika said.
Sanika is a singer, and her father, Mr. Joshi, plays the violin.
The family recommends that everyone see Shen Yun at least once in their life.
“You learn a lot about Chinese culture through dance, and the music is enriching. It’s one of the best two hours I’ve spent in a long time,” Sanika said.
