CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas—Experiencing Shen Yun Performing Arts for the first time at the American Bank Center Selena Auditorium on Feb. 14 were Harland and Maria Igou. The couple were impressed by many aspects of the
performance.
“It’s been a very nice show,” said Mr. Igou. “The colors, the backdrop, everything is just amazing, so we enjoyed it very much.”
Based in New York, Shen Yun was
founded in 2006 by leading Chinese artists and quickly became the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company. Its goal is to revive traditional Chinese culture, and to present to its audiences the beauty of China before communism.
Mrs. Igou said that she was inspired by
China’s history. She described Shen Yun as “a fantastic cultural event,” while Mr. Igou called it “a great learning experience for sure.”
According to Shen Yun’s website, China was once known as “the Land of the Divine,” and the ancient Chinese people believed that their
culture was a gift from the Heavens. Shen Yun incorporates these beliefs in its performance.
“The whole divine aspect and everything has been really nice, really interesting,” said Mr. Igou.
One of the story-based dances in Shen Yun’s program is set in modern-day China and depicts the Chinese Communist Party’s persecution of followers of
Falun Dafa, a spiritual practice that teaches the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. The dance left a deep impression on Mrs. Igou, who said that “it’s imperative that people know” about the persecution.
The Igous were also impressed by Shen Yun’s patented live
backdrop, which allows performers to move between the stage and the background.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Mrs. Igou. “It’s really incredible how it incorporates live into the digital.
“It keeps your attention very well,” said Mr. Igou. “It’s just very colorful and just amazing. “
When asked how he would summarize Shen Yun’s performance, Mr. Igou said, “I would say it’s exciting … very exciting.”
“It’s a must-see,” Mrs. Igou added. “It’s an experience that must be had.”
