KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Marie Ann Stutz, a former professional dancer turned pastor, was deeply moved by her first experience of Shen Yun Performing Arts on March 12, at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. She described the evening as truly breathtaking.
As an instructor of classical ballet and gymnastics, Ms. Stutz was especially amazed by the skill and artistry of Shen Yun’s dancers. “This surpassed anything I’ve ever taught,” she said. “I wish I could have been that good. I just think this is the best.”
Shen Yun’s performance is comprised of a series of short pieces that take its audience on a ride through the dynasties and across the vast regions of China. Using classical Chinese, folk, and ethnic dances, as well as solo musical performances, the artists tell tales from ancient times to the modern day.
“It was beautiful. Beautiful. I don’t know how [they] did the background with the people coming out of it. I’m a Christian woman, and that’s heaven to me,” she shared, referring to the company’s patented, 3D digital backdrop that seamlessly collaborates with the performers to extend the stage and enhance storytelling.
“There’s so much of it that each act was breathtaking. It was just so tremendously entertaining and breathtaking—it was like in heaven at times. … Heaven and earth.”
