HONOLULU—Shen Yun Performing Arts is close to completing its 2025 season, and Honolulu is one of the best places to catch Shen Yun this season.
“We find it a very exciting window into Chinese culture. It’s an honor to be here,” said Steve Castonguay, U.S. government representative.
Shen Yun is based in New York, and its
mission is to revive 5,000 years of Chinese civilization.
“I think it’s a great mission to connect the past with the present. Maybe we could learn from the past as we plan our future,” Mr. Castonguay said.
Chinese culture is one of the longest-running histories in the world. Unfortunately,
the culture and history were systematically distorted and destroyed by the Chinese Communist Party when it came into power.
Mr. Castonguay believes that learning from the past is a crucial part of growing.
“We’re facing the same problems as we have throughout history. So, it’s good to look back and see how the ancestors managed it,” he said.
Shen Yun’s artists are trained in
classical Chinese dance, one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world. Shen Yun’s dancers are also trained in various
Chinese ethnic and folk dance styles.
“There’s differences within the regions. So, I think that’s what I found most interesting to see, the differences among the styles of dance and art within the various regions of China,” Mr. Castonguay said.
Shen Yun has been sharing true Chinese culture with the world since 2006 and has grown from one to eight companies touring the world simultaneously.
“It’s very moving. It’s an honor to be here. ... A lot of dedication. A great representation of the culture,” Mr. Castonguay said.
Shen Yun’s live
orchestra is a unique combination of traditional Chinese instruments and a classic Western ensemble.
Mr. Castonguay’s wife, Susan, thought that Shen Yun’s music was beautiful and mesmerizing. Mrs. Castonguay is also a U.S. government representative.
Reporting by Sally Sun and Maria Han.
