NORFOLK, Virginia—Shen Yun Performing Arts is currently presenting two performances on April 22–23 in Norfolk, Virginia.

In the lead-up to the event, federal and state lawmakers—along with several local mayors—have issued proclamations, letters, and video greetings recognizing the company’s 20th anniversary. The Virginia House of Delegates also marked the milestone by unanimously passing House Resolution No. 36.

“I’m very excited for the performers to come for Shen Yun. It’s a wonderful show, an amazing experience. And so I encourage everyone to attend the show, and I wish the performers the best of luck.”

In a letter, U.S. Representative James R. Walkinshaw emphasized the broader importance of the arts: “Performing arts play a vital role in enriching our communities, strengthening cultural understanding, and bringing people together despite perceived differences.”

He also underscored the significance of Shen Yun’s global success and impact.

The resolution praised the company’s fusion of classical Chinese dance, music, and visual artistry. It wrote, “Shen Yun’s mission of cultural renewal revives the best of China’s majestic, 5,000-year-old culture before communism and takes audience members on an unforgettable journey that conveys a universal message of goodness and hope.”

She further emphasized the company’s perseverance: “Even in the face of harassment and intimidation, your resilience and steadfast commitment to your mission of spreading goodness and hope serve as a true inspiration.”

State Senator J.D. “Danny” Diggs issued a formal proclamation commending Shen Yun’s cultural mission and artistic excellence. He said the performance takes audience members “on an unforgettable journey that shines through the ages with a universal message of goodness and hope.”

Diggs also praised the performance’s aesthetic values, noting that Shen Yun “combines the profound inner wisdom and elegance of classical Chinese dance with the beauty of authentic costumes and groundbreaking music, seamlessly combining the best of East and West.”

Other Virginia state senators, in proclamations and congratulatory letters, highlighted Shen Yun Performing Arts’ global reach and the universal values conveyed through its performances.

State Senator Jennifer B. Boysko wrote, “The dedication and courage your artists have shown speaks to the power and importance of the work you do.”

She expressed her support, calling the company’s efforts “both admirable and inspiring.”

State Senator Saddam Salim stated: “Your worldwide performances have reached across 200 cities and five continents, spreading artistic excellence, original orchestral compositions, and vivid presentation of classical Chinese culture.”

“I congratulate the performers on the occasion of Shen Yun Performing Arts’ 20th Anniversary for your commitment to promoting kindness, integrity, and mutual respect through your performances.”

In video remarks, State Senator Angelia Williams Graves, speaking to local residents, reflected on the production’s themes and legacy:

“You are about to experience something truly extraordinary. For 20 years, Shen Yun Performing Arts has dedicated itself to preserving and sharing one of the world’s most ancient and beautiful cultural traditions—5,000 years of Chinese civilization brought to life through breathtaking artistry, original music, and the timeless values that connect us all as human beings: Kindness, integrity, respect, wisdom, reverence for one another, and the divine.”

She noted that these values “transcend borders, languages and generations.”

“By showcasing the universal themes of courage, compassion, and virtue, you offer a performance that transcends language and connects with audiences of all ages,” she stated.

Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander welcomed Shen Yun as part of the city’s vibrant arts scene, noting its ability to “inspire, educate, and unite audiences across cultures.” He described the occasion as “a moment of cultural significance.”

In Chesapeake, Mayor Dr. Richard W. West also issued a proclamation welcoming Shen Yun’s arrival, noting that the city “is honored to be among the communities that welcome this extraordinary cultural experience.”

Dr. West wrote that Shen Yun’s performances “enrich and inspire the citizens of Chesapeake through both entertainment and cultural education,” while presenting traditional Chinese culture “as it was meant to be: a study in grace, fluidity, inner strength, and virtue,” which “resonates deeply within the diverse and culturally appreciative community of Chesapeake.”

He praised the artists’ fortitude, stating that Shen Yun performers have “demonstrated courage, strength, and steadfastness in the face of harassment, vandalism, and threats of violence,” and affirmed, “We stand in support of artistic expression, cultural preservation, and the freedom to share stories that uplift and inspire.”

On the occasion of the company’s 20th anniversary tour, he concluded by formally recognizing Shen Yun and commending “its unwavering commitment to cultural renewal, artistic excellence, and the universal message of hope, virtue, and resilience that continues to inspire audiences around the world.”