Interviews by Julie Wang and Ryan Wu
NEW YORK, New York — On March 25, Shen Yun kicked off its annual run at the prestigious David H. Koch Theater in New York City’s Lincoln Center. Dazzled by the show’s vibrant colors and gravity-defying acrobatics, theatergoers were thrilled to experience the return of the renowned performing arts troupe. Founded in 2006, Shen Yun Performing Arts is the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company, showcasing the beauty and splendor of traditional Chinese culture and art prior to the ravages of communism.
After experiencing Shen Yun, audience members were seen leaving the venue with a shared sense of awe, with many saying the experience surpassed expectations by blending artistry, storytelling, and cultural insight in a immersive and spellbinding way.
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Across audience interviews spanning professions from technology sales to economics and public service, a consistent theme emerged: Shen Yun’s ability to combine visual spectacle with deeper cultural resonance left a lasting impression.
‘Really impressive’
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For Brad Jones, the scale and execution of the production stood out immediately. “It’s beautiful. It’s so well done, well choreographed, amazing costumes,” said Jones, who works in technology sales. “I think just the scope and the size of the show… I like the traditional and I like that they incorporated some modern themes in there as well. I thought that was really impressive.”
Jones, who attended Shen Yun’s performance on April 9, also noted that the show offers something distinct compared to other performances he has seen at Lincoln Center. “This brings a mix of ballet and acrobatics with culture, which is really important.” He summed up the production’s layered appeal as striking and unique. “The acrobatics, mixed with the traditional dance and the costumes, it’s amazing.”
Based in New York, Shen Yun is composed by a group of talented artists from around the world, including musicians, soloists, choreographers, and dancers, with the goal of reviving and promoting 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture and values. The company currently has eight equally sized troupes that tour across the globe simultaneously, putting on a brand new production each year.
‘Vivid and fantastic’
Real estate developer Chad Gessin echoed that sentiment, describing the show as a pleasant surprise after years of seeing advertisements around New York. “It was great. Exceeded my expectations,” said Gessin who attended the show with his family on April 9.
When asked what stood out to them the most, Courtney, Chad’s wife, pointed to the dancers’ costumes and flowing sleeves. “When the female dancers folded their sleeves together, it was so beautiful. I loved it,” said Courtney who works as a language speech pathologist. She added that the costumes were a highlight of the performance. “All the costumes were my favorite part — the colors were gorgeous, really saturated, vivid and fantastic.”
Shen Yun’s performances aim not only to entertain, but also educate audiences on important social and political issues taking place in China today; all while providing a unique perspective on the human spirit and the importance of not taking certain freedoms for granted.
While many attendees came for the artistry, music, and dancing, several were struck by the show’s portrayal of contemporary issues in China. Gessin reflected on the emotional and educational impact of the show. “It was nice to be associated with and to get a little bit of understanding of how the Chinese Communist government still represses those people… it’s important to bring that to people’s forefront.”
‘Everything is beautiful’
Economist Liliana Velasco, who attended the show on April 9, emphasized the cultural value of the performance, especially for audiences unfamiliar with traditional Chinese culture and music. “I think it’s great. It’s a great opportunity to see ballet from China… everything is beautiful, the dresses, the dances, music, everything.” Velasco said she also appreciated the variety across performances. “Every dance is different… it has a different meaning. So I love them all.”
When asked about the show’s inability to perform in China, she lamented the fact that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) clamps down on freedom of expression and artistic representation. “It’s awful, of course, because this is art, this is culture, and it should be allowed,” said Velasco.
Beyond the choreography, Shen Yun’s signature use of a high-tech integrative, digital backdrop brings scenes from different dynasties, celestial realms, and ethnic regions to life. The show is also guided by two emcees who explain each segment in both English and Chinese, making each storyline more accessible to a wider audience.
‘It was unbelievable’
Mary Ellen and Terrance Thorgramson, who attended Shen Yun’s performance on April 9 for the first time, were particularly impressed by the seamless integration of animation and live performance. “I love that they made it look so real, it was unbelievable,” said Mary Ellen.
Terrance added, “[The show] surpassed my expectations with the costumes, the music, and the backdrop… how they integrated jumping in and jumping out [of the screen].”
The immersive effect left a strong impression on the pair who said they were delighted by the combination of technology with live music and choreography. “At first I was taken by surprise how they jumped in and out of the background… the way they made the clouds look great, and then they just popped up out. It was incredible.”
Oksana Tarkheta, who attended the show on April 9 alongside her daughter, also highlighted the show’s technological element that left a deep impression. “That makes the show even more like attractive… something innovative.”
A show for all generations
Many attendees pointed to the live orchestra and choreography as central to the experience. “I love the music because the orchestra is playing — the dance, cultural and traditional part, it’s entertaining and we can learn new things,” noted Tarketha, who works as an interpreter.
Audience members also emphasized Shen Yun’s broad appeal across age groups. Dr. Rick Cicero described the performance as a meaningful family experience that left a deep impression on him. “It was all quite a treat… a lot of fun.”
When asked if he would recommend the performance to friends and family, he said he’s already planning to bring more family members next year. “I want to get tickets for my mother… I think it would be a great birthday present for my mother who’s 95 years old,” said Cicero.
Shen Yun will perform at Lincoln Center through April 12. For more information on Shen Yun Performing Arts, including FAQs and ticketing information, please visit the official website here.
