OTTAWA, Canada—Faith in the divine is a tradition that has shaped cultures throughout history and is what continues to help many people overcome adversities. Jessica Tosun, a program officer in a government department, said that seeing Shen Yun Performing Arts reminded her of her roots as well as the importance of having faith.
“The choreography is gorgeous. They have really beautiful choreography,” she added, remarking that “it’s cool, it’s very nice, and you’re learning the history behind it.”
Ms. Tosun said, “That would be amazing ... to increase the happiness and traditions, the good traditions.”
Touring the world with an all-new program every year, Shen Yun tells myriad stories from ancient times as well as modern-day China. Ms. Tosun found the dance story depicting the crimes of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to be heartbreaking.
Being half Lebanese and half Turkish, Ms. Tosun said she knows the sorrow of seeing one’s country in turmoil.
“Both my countries are going through their own turmoil. So it’s sad to see it in other countries. I feel for everyone,” she said.
“I believe that the fact that they have that much faith really helps [them] get on in life,” said Ms. Tosun.
Dynasty after dynasty, the Chinese people had a firm belief in the divine. Although the CCP has sought to systematically destroy traditional Chinese culture along with its spiritual essence, Shen Yun is reviving it and bringing it back.
“It’s wonderful to be able to continue that kind of faith and let our children also have the same beliefs,” said Ms. Tosun.
