SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS REVIEWS

Shen Yun Is ‘Flawless and Amazing to See,’ Says Business Owner

Feb 01, 2024

SAN JOSE, Calif.—Business owner and circus performer Ian Fratar attended Shen Yun Performing Arts for the first time at San Jose’s Center for the Performing Arts on Jan. 31.

He enjoyed every aspect of the evening show.

“The stories are diverse and beautiful, and they’re very meaningful,” he said. “I’m kind of overtaken by the talent and the passion and the smiles of the performers. Everything is delightful.”

As a fellow performer, Mr. Fratar was impressed by the skill of the Shen Yun dancers, who are all highly trained in classical Chinese dance. It is considered one of the most athletic and expressive art forms in the world.

“They’re impeccable. The dancers are truly impeccable. I see a lot of circus performers, and I see a lot of mistakes, but not here. The stress must be incredible, and yet they seem to enjoy what they do here. It’s incredible,” he stated.

“If anybody messes up—it would be difficult for the rest [of the performers,] but somehow, they made it all work. It was beautiful, really beautiful.”

Based in New York, Shen Yun’s performance is comprised of a series of short pieces that take its audience on a ride through the dynasties and across the vast regions of China.

Using classical Chinese, folk, and ethnic dances, as well as solo musical performances, Shen Yun tells tales from ancient times to the modern day.

Throughout the performance, Mr. Fratar said he felt “a deep sense of gratitude.”

“It’s glorious. It’s so amazing. I really appreciate [the artists’] devotion and passion,” he said. “It was flawless and amazing to see the joy of the dancers.”

For five millennia, China filled its history with breathtaking legends and rich traditions rooted in spirituality. However, following the 1949 communist takeover, traditional Chinese culture went through a period of mass destruction.

The spread of atheism quickly eradicated people’s belief in the divine, and the cherished teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism disappeared overnight.

Since Shen Yun’s establishment in 2006, these artists have made it their mission to revive this lost culture.

Referring to this mission, Mr. Fratar expressed that “it’s beautiful and necessary. A true inspiration to see.” He would like to thank the performers for their efforts with all his heart.

“Lots of gratitude and awe. It was breathtaking and inspiring,” he said.

Reporting by Gary Wang, Lily Yu, and Jennifer Tseng.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.