SYDNEY, Australia— On March 22, company CEO Deb Barwick brought her whole family to attend Shen Yun Performing Arts’ matinee at the Sydney Lyric for the first time, to experience traditional Chinese culture and history. Both of her granddaughters loved the performance.
Shen Yun is “an amazing show. Really, really beautiful story, very educational and just stunning performances,” she exclaimed during intermission.
“That beautiful education, Chinese culture, and the Chinese history—both [my granddaughters] are really enjoying learning and the beautiful dance and stunning performances.”
“Music is just beautiful,” she shared. “It’s serene and peaceful. It’s just stunning.”
New York-based Shen Yun was founded in 2006 by elite Chinese artists who had fled the persecution of the communist party.
The most memorable moment for Ms. Barwick was the piece where the dancers’ long sleeves billowed and flowed like the gentle movement of water on stage.
According to the company’s website, these sleeves were a part of ancient Chinese feminine attire representing humility and grace.
Dance and music “is a fantastic way to do that,” she said, “making more people aware of how things are today in China and getting people to really open their eyes and support [their mission] to bring that culture and cultural experience back.”
Traditional Chinese culture is “absolutely beautiful,” she added. “We are all South Australian aboriginal … so [we] really [understand] what the situation is and really appreciate the ancient culture and ancient ways.”
The most important message Ms. Barwick is taking away from the matinee is the need to keep learning.
“We need to learn more,” she said. “We need to open our ears and listen to our elders as well as our past ancestors and traditions. I think we need to embrace it a lot more for a better future for all of our young.”
When asked if she would recommend Shen Yun to friends and family, Ms. Barwick responded with a resounding yes.
“Oh, absolutely. I'll encourage people to come and learn and experience this beautiful show and beautiful culture.”
