SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS REVIEWS

Shen Yun Is ‘First Class,’ Says UK Theatergoer

Feb 27, 2026

2/27/2026Updated: 2/27/2026

HIGH WYCOMBE, UK—Bob Moir, a retired horologist, and his wife, Kathleen, saw Shen Yun Performing Arts at Wycombe Swan Theatre on Feb. 26.

Mr. Moir described Shen Yun as “first class.” He believes that “vibrant” is the best word to use when describing the performance.

Shen Yun, based in New York, is on a mission to present “China before communism,” and revive people’s connection with 5,000 years of Chinese civilization and culture.

Shen Yun is based in New York, and its artists are trained in classical Chinese dance, one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world.

“I’m sure there’s a lot of hard work that goes into a performance like that. And it’s really interesting to know where it’s come from and how they’ve all trained,” said Mrs. Moir.

Out of all the dances, the one that left the deepest impression told the true story of Falun Dafa practitioners following the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. Despite their goodness, they are being persecuted for their faith in present-day China.

“I think the scene about [the persecution in] modern-day China was quite emotional—I got a lump in my throat at one stage,” Mrs. Moir shared.

Raymond Tomlins and Sharon Vaillant at the Shen Yun Performing Arts performance at Wycombe Swan Theatre, in the UK, on Feb. 26, 2026. (James Xu/The Epoch Times) — Raymond Tomlins and Sharon Vaillant at the Shen Yun Performing Arts performance at Wycombe Swan Theatre, in the UK, on Feb. 26, 2026. James Xu/The Epoch Times

Raymond Tomlins and Sharon Vaillant were also in the audience for this matinee performance.

“Fabulous! I recommend everyone to come and see it. The production is excellent. The colors, the dancers, the costumes, and the storytelling—Fabulous show, thank you,” shared Ms. Vaillant.

The current regime in China has been in power for less than a century, yet it has managed to become the identity of China.

“[Shen Yun] gives a new insight to China,” said Mr. Tomlins, a retired architect.

“We all need to [be] reminded about compassion and kindness to each other, and the history is also lovely, the storytelling,” Ms. Vaillant added.

The Shen Yun Orchestra, which tours with Shen Yun, is a unique combination of traditional Chinese instruments and a classic Western ensemble.

As many performing arts companies are choosing to forgo a live orchestra, Mr. Tomlins was pleased to see Shen Yun still upholding that tradition.

“I just love the fact that they’re there and it’s live. It’s very clever,” he said.

Shen Yun’s use of its digital backdrop is patented. The versatility of the technology allows the set to change scenes in the blink of an eye, giving the stage endless possibilities.

“My favorite bit is the screen,” said Ms. Vaillant. She enjoyed seeing the characters on the projection become live on stage.

Reporting by James Xu 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.