COPENHAGEN, Denmark—On the afternoon and evening of April 1, Shen Yun Performing Arts presented its third and fourth performances at the Royal Arena to a theatre filled with an enthusiastic audience.
Danish Parliament Member Matilde Powers attended the matinee with her daughter. She was stunned by the company’s depiction of Chinese history and the artists’ courage in raising awareness about the Chinese Communist Party’s persecution of Falun Gong—a peaceful meditation whose practitioners uphold the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance.
“I was especially impressed by the performers’ professional level. To be able to gain such a deep understanding of Chinese history, from ancient times to the present, is truly astonishing. My daughter and I were both deeply moved.”
Based in New York, Shen Yun artists are highly trained in classical Chinese dance—an art form with a history spanning thousands of years, celebrated for its athleticism and expressive power. What many may not realize is that numerous tumbling techniques often associated with gymnastics and acrobatics actually originate from classical Chinese dance.
According to the company’s website, the classical Chinese dance seen in China today is heavily mixed with military and modern styles. Only at Shen Yun can an audience experience it in its purest form, preserved as it was passed down through generations.
“We were drawn into the story of the young girl who didn’t want to follow the traditional path of embroidery but wanted to go to school with the boys,” she said. “It reminded us a bit of Mulan, and we thought it was beautifully presented.”
Reflecting on the depiction of human rights issues in present-day China, Ms. Powers expressed concern.
“We felt the artists were very courageous to show another side of modern China that most people don’t see. It left a deep impression on us. To learn that reality can be so harsh—even practicing something harmless could lead to punishment—was very moving.”
Shen Yun’s mission to revive traditional Chinese culture also resonated deeply with her.
“They truly did an extraordinary job. It’s clear how talented they are and how much effort they put into presenting such a perfect show. We are very grateful.”
Also in the audience was Swedish Parliament member Emma Ahlstrom Koster. She thought the performance was both powerful and inspiring.
“It was absolutely amazing. So powerful and breathtakingly beautiful, with exquisite organization,” she said. “This is truly a very special performance.”
“The male dancers were phenomenal,” Ms. Ahlstrom Koster said. “I also really enjoyed the long-sleeve dance by the women. As they twirled in circles, it was so beautiful, you can’t help but want to join in and dance along.”
She was equally touched by Shen Yun’s storytelling.
“Each tells a little story that lets you experience the culture, people’s beliefs, and what they strive for in life.”
In the decades since the communist regime seized power, Chinese culture was forced to the brink of extinction. Shen Yun artists are seeking to revive China’s 5,000 years of divinely inspired culture and showcase to the world the beauty of China before communism.
Ms. Ahlstrom Koster found this mission deeply inspiring and said she would like to thank the artists for their efforts.
“Thank you for doing such an outstanding job,” she said. “Please keep dancing, don’t stop, make it your life’s work because this is incredible.”
Former Danish Parliament member Sascha Faxe also had a wonderful time. She praised both the artists’ technical excellence and the meaningful message they shared.
“The entire performance conveys a very clear message that there exists a China entirely different from the regime we see today,” she said. “It is vital to have and pass on this cultural foundation.”
“It’s truly exciting to see a performance so completely different from what we typically see on Danish stages. I experienced a variety of scenes and witnessed artists of exceptional skill, who are highly accomplished on a technical level.”
“The backdrop incorporates modern technology—seeing performers leap out from it for the first time was quite astonishing,” she stated.
“It’s a fascinating use of technology, combining the animated backdrop with live performers, while placing the music in the foreground to add depth to the performance.”
She was very happy to find that, in addition to the series of classical Chinese, ethnic, and folk dances, Shen Yun included solo musical performances.
Ms. Faxe said she believes that Shen Yun’s dedication to reviving traditional culture is very important and meaningful.
“There are deep issues within the current Chinese regime,” she said. “I believe people should not lose sight of culture and history. Preserving and passing on this cultural foundation is essential, and Shen Yun offers a way to broaden perspectives.”
“It’s a kind of awakening about what the world can be.”
