DENVER—Anna Phillips, an assistant theater director in Russia, said Shen Yun Performing Arts was wonderful after she attended the company’s matinee for the first time at the Buell Theatre on April 8.
She especially enjoyed 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.
“The water sleeves—I was like wondering how do they collect all the fabric back [after throwing them out,]” she exclaimed. “They probably practiced. It’s so, so impressive. I’m wondering how much, how long, does it take to learn to dance like that.”
For 5,000 years, China’s civilization flourished under the shared belief that the divine will bless those who uphold traditional moral values. Tragically, within just a few decades of the communist party’s violent takeover, these beliefs were erased and replaced with atheism.
“I was really impressed how when they land [after a jump,] I couldn’t hear anything,” she said. “It’s a lot of work to be synchronized and learn [to land] so no one hears.”
Reflecting on the company’s mission, Ms. Phillips emphasized the benefits of preserving tradition and passing it on to future generations.
“It’s very important. If you pass your tradition to your kids, they grow to be very kind people. I have a son, as well, so I will try to pass the traditions.”
She strongly encourages those who haven’t experienced Shen Yun to come and see the show, not just once, but at least twice.
“You have to come twice, once in the front seat, and once a little bit further back,” she said. So, you can get all the details.
