CHICAGO—Shen Yun Performing Arts Company returned to the Civic Opera House on April 5.

Advertising executive Brett Buerck was attracted to the billboards promoting the show. He chose a front row seat so that nothing would obscure his experience.

“It’s incredibly artistic and graceful,” Mr. Buerck said. “I think the dedication, and the culture, and bringing the history alive is fascinating.”

The mission of New York-based Shen Yun is to revive China’s rich cultural legacy. The stories of ancient myths and legends portrayed in the show are told through the expressive language of classical Chinese dance and orchestral music. No words necessary.

Buereck, who creates political advertisements for candidates across the country, had no previous knowledge of Chinese history. But he was very familiar with the challenges of creating a compelling story. 

“In my professional background you have to be able to tell a story that captures an audience’s attention and imagination,” he said. “It’s a powerful medium to be able to do that for a couple of thousand people sitting in an auditorium and they’re not bored by it.”

With reporting by Stacey Tang and Conan Milner

New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has four touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world. For more information, visit Shen Yun Performing Arts.

The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time. We have proudly covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.