DALLAS—Israel Ledesma, a retired university director, said he was struck by the spirituality in Shen Yun Performing Arts that he experienced on Jan. 4, 2026.
“I really think the show brought back a level of spirituality that’s needed in today’s society, in today’s world,” Mr. Ledesma said. He added that he has wanted to see Shen Yun for a long time and was finally able to make that wish come true this year.
Shen Yun, based in New York, is on a mission to showcase “China before communism,” and revive people’s connection with 5,000 years of Chinese civilization and culture.
“I really think we do need to go back to finding out who we truly are as spiritual beings. [We can] continue to change the world, to see the beauty that the world has to offer and that our creator has given to us,” Mr. Ledesma said.
Shen Yun’s artists are trained in classical Chinese dance, one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world.
“I think the show really encapsulated a lot of Asian culture, athleticism. The dancing was just phenomenal. It was unique, something that I’m not used to seeing in the states. I think it captured a resonance of our divine ability—what we’re able to do as humans,” Mr. Ledesma said.
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 thought they were just phenomenal. I can’t imagine how much time and training has gone in to be able to synchronize the dance moves and just the flow of those moves. I think you’ve got to commend them for their dedication and tenacity to continue to improve their dance skills,” Mr. Ledesma said.
Mr. Ledesma also commented that Shen Yun has inspired him to look for the beauty in humanity and within himself.
“I think the true beauty of the whole show was just to help us self-reflect on the true beauty of ourselves and who we are and who the Creator has created us to be,” he said.
Shen Yun is famous for its patented use of an animated digital backdrop. The versatility of the special effect allows the set to change scenes in the blink of an eye, opening the stage to endless possibilities.
“The technology was amazing. Just to be able to look at every different angle, from the physical performers to the actual technology in the background, and how they worked in unison together. I think it allowed you to be immersed in that reality that they were trying to portray to the audience,” Mr. Ledesma said.
Reporting by Sonia Wu and Maria Han.
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.
