GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—The trained eye can appreciate art in special way, and Rich Burkholder, owner of Avalon Music Academy of Holland, and his wife, Marie, who teaches
dance, shared their thoughts on
Shen Yun Performing Arts.
“It was an educational experience that they explained some of the mythology,
the stories and produce like theatrical telling of those was really interesting. So I loved how they did that,” said Mrs. Burkholder.
Shen Yun is based in New York, and its
orchestra is a blend of traditional Chinese instruments in a classical Western orchestra. The company also includes solo vocalists who sing in the authentic
bel canto style.
“Both of the soloists were incredible. As far as voices, it was amazing how they filled the whole auditorium,” said Mr. Burkholder, a music teacher himself.
The vocalists sing Chinese lyrics, but Shen Yun’s digital backdrop provides a translation of the text sung so that audiences around the world can follow along.
“It was great to see the English words,” said Mr. Burkholder. “They have a very broad meaning, and the themes were something that we could relate to.”
The erhu, one of the most important Chinese instruments, also has its moment under the spotlight.
“I loved the indigenous music, too. That was wonderful. So I think that the whole experience musically was fantastic,” said Mr. Burkholder.
One of the dances is from a
classic tale, “Outlaws of the Marsh.” This particular dance struck a chord with the music teacher.
“I loved the story about the drunk monk. I thought that was wonderful. Because I think at the end it seemed like there was a rebirth going on, that’s something I can relate to personally,” Mr. Burkholder.
Reporting by Charlie Lu and Maria Han.
