SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS REVIEWS

Shen Yun Is ‘The Most Incredible Event I’ve Ever Seen,’ Says London Theatergoer

Jan 14, 2026

1/14/2026Updated: 1/14/2026

LONDON, UK—Senior estimator Steven Hearne had wanted to see Shen Yun Performing Arts ever since he was first introduced to the company. Six months ago, he began planning a trip to the Shen Yun matinee at the Eventim Apollo on Jan. 14, as a special birthday gift for his wife.

The performance far exceeded his expectations.

“This is the most incredible, incredible event I’ve ever seen. I go to the theater a lot, but this was just unbelievable,” he said happily.

“I think it was the dancing, the whole atmosphere. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. It’s quite magical.”

As one of the world’s oldest civilizations, China’s 5,000 years of history are rich with legends and traditions. Yet, within just a few decades following the rise of the Chinese Communist Party, much of this magnificent heritage was lost.

As atheism spread, belief in the divine was suppressed, and the moral values passed down through Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism were pushed aside. Today, New York–based Shen Yun seeks to revive this lost heritage and bring back the beauty of pre-communist China through classical Chinese dance and music.

Mr. Hearne thought the performers “did an incredible job” offering the audience a comprehensive overview of China’s traditional culture and beliefs.

“They did an incredible job. I had no idea that sort of history was there within China, and it’s good to know about it,” he stated. “Obviously, [the performers] are passionate about it, as I am, actually having watched it.”

He also praised the company’s innovative use of a 3D digital backdrop. When seamlessly integrated with the musicians and performers on stage, its striking visual effects bring ancient legends to life.

“The digital screen and people disappearing into the screen, flying off into the air‚ how did they do that?” he said. “That’s a really nice touch.”

The music of Shen Yun’s live orchestra left Mr. Hearne feeling very nostalgic. Its blend of classical Western orchestration with traditional Chinese melodies and instruments reminded him of music he had heard when he got married 25 years ago.

“It was just that beautiful spiritual music, and it really touches your emotions,” he said.

Shen Yun “Is a soul-searching event. I loved it, absolutely loved it, and I know my wife absolutely loved it as well.”

To the dancers, Mr. Hearne left this message: “What you do is just beyond human ability. I’ve never seen dancing quite like that, with such energy and enthusiasm.”

Reporting by NTD and Jennifer Tseng.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.