HOUSTON-CYPRESS—Business owner Tawnie Breaux and her husband CJ, an engineer, had a wonderful evening at Shen Yun Performing Arts’ third performance at the CFISD Visual and Performing Arts Center on Jan. 31.
Mrs. Breaux was struck by the production’s beauty and variety.
“I like how they use the technology, where they jump into the screen, the storytelling was beautiful,” she said. “The dancers are just so amazing. They’re very good. They’re such amazing dancers.”
Founded by elite Chinese artists who fled persecution, the New York-based Shen Yun is dedicated to reviving the beauty and virtues of pre-communist China. Its performance takes the audience through China’s dynasties and legends, while also raising awareness for the ongoing human rights challenges in present-day China.
Mrs. Breaux deeply appreciated this mission and was saddened to learn that, despite its focus on traditional culture, Shen Yun is currently banned from performing in China by the ruling communist regime. She believes the production should absolutely be seen there.
“I love it,” she said. “If this is traditional Chinese dance, then absolutely, you would think they would be embracing the history and the culture of it. It’s beautiful.”
She also enjoyed the way each piece stood on its own. “The stories are really good. I liked that each one is its own little story, like the Monkey King, and then the little stories [about a] steadfast heart was beautiful. Those are really good stories to incorporate into [the performance.]”
Mrs. Breaux enjoyed the solo performances by Shen Yun’s singers. Highly trained in the classic bel canto style, known for producing the most beautiful and pure tone of voice, they bring original songs to the stage that delve into the deeper meanings of life.
“I loved the singing—that song was really beautiful too,” she said. “His voice and the lyrics, I thought they were great.”
As an engineer, Mr. Breaux was particularly attracted by the company’s use of technology, which seamlessly blends a 3D digital backdrop with live dancers to enhance the storytelling.
“[I’m impressed] by all of it,” he stated. “The technology involved—not only the dancing, makes [the performance] more interactive. The choreography was beautiful, but the technology helps tell the story a little more. It’s great.”
Since Shen Yun’s establishment in 2006, the company has earned widespread acclaim. Each year, the artists present a brand-new set of choreography and musical compositions, ensuring that both new and returning audience members are always in for a surprise.
