Endowed with 5,000 years of history, China was once known as the “Land of the Divine.” For millennia, its people believed that by keeping their hearts pure and adhering to strict moral standards, they would be blessed by the divine.

Mr. Teng was particularly moved by the modern-day story dance that raised awareness of ongoing human rights abuses in China.

“The scene where it portrayed communist soldiers capturing people for their beliefs—it was brutal,” he expressed. “It was tough to watch, but I think sometimes watching scenes like this really help us to understand the gravity of what some people really do face, which is persecution.”

“By putting on a show like this, where it’s attractive, and people want to come see, I think it’s a great way for [Shen Yun] to really share their story and showcase one of their values, which is kindness,” he said.

“How they were able to persevere through [the persecution,] I think it is an amazing story, and people should really know more about it.”

Calling the ban “tragic and sad,” Mr. Teng added, “Unfortunately, that is a symptom of the communist regime that they would shut down this expression. I believe that Shen Yun is an incredible show. A remarkable show with a great message, and it should be shown around the world.”

He thought Shen Yun’s revival of traditional Chinese culture is especially relevant today, because “we have become very much self-centered and self-focused, especially here in the West.”

“In Asian cultures, it is very much family-oriented, community-oriented. … We have to remember we are not the center of the universe. We’re not the center of the world. We are here actually to love and serve other people. That’s what I think embodies the value of kindness.”

“I love that they just weave that into the various aspects of the [performance] and encourage people to just be more open to spirituality,” he shared. “I think it would serve us all.”

Last but not least, he wished the artists continued success.

“I hope the next 20 years are even more successful and you continue to make more shows,” he said.

“I’m really impressed. At the very end, they talked about the fact that every year [the program is] different, which surprised me. … So, I would [wish them] all the best as they continue to think and innovate and inspire new ideas and new songs and new scenes.”