SEATTLE—On the evening of April 1, Shen Yun Performing Arts took the stage at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, drawing an enthusiastic audience. With its blend of classical Chinese dance, vibrant costumes, and live orchestral music, the performance offered a vivid presentation of traditional Chinese culture, leaving a strong impression on attendees.
Among those in attendance was Keith Wagoner, a Washington state senator, who shared his appreciation for the performance.
“It was wonderful,” Mr. Wagoner said. “I’m very impressed by the fact they seem to float in midair, which doesn’t seem possible—but it looks like it.”
Shen Yun artists are trained in classical Chinese dance—one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world. Renowned for its profound expressive power, this ancient art form enables performers to vividly portray stories from Chinese history, literature, as well as the rich tapestry of myths and legends that have shaped the civilization for millennia.
He highlighted several dances as personal favorites, particularly those that made use of flowing costumes. “I like the water dance and peacock dance,” he said, adding that “the costumes are very beautiful and they flow, and the dancers use the costumes as part of the routine. So that’s just beautiful.”
Mr. Wagoner also commented on the atmosphere in the theater and the role of the orchestra. “I think everybody was enthusiastic. The orchestra was amazing,” he said, noting that he appreciated seeing the musicians acknowledged at the end of the performance.
Speaking about the music, he described its effect in simple terms. “You can feel it in your body,” he said. “It just gives you an emotion—you can just feel it.” He added that while music carries energy on its own, “when it’s really done professionally, it has more impact.”
Mr. Wagoner observed that the performance conveyed a sense of peace. “I go away feeling good,” he said.
Mr. Wagoner praised this mission, saying, “I think it’s very important.” He also shared that he felt a connection with Shen Yun, because his wife is a Chinese.
Summing up his impression, he described Shen Yun as “beautiful, professional, and soothing.”
“I would absolutely recommend the performance to others,” he added. “I think I’ll bring my mother and sister next year.”
