By Jian Yi, Vision Times
NEW YORK, New York — On April 12, Shen Yun concluded its 2026 New York season with a sold-out final performance at the city’s prestigious David H. Koch Theater. The performance marked the end of an 18-show run at Lincoln Center, drawing strong audience turnout and glowing reviews.
Among those in attendance was Nantasha Williams, who presented a formal proclamation on behalf of the New York City Council in recognition of Shen Yun’s 20th anniversary. 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.
‘5,000 years of civilization in two hours’
Williams praised the production’s artistic execution and scope, describing the performance as “beautiful” and “very impressive.” Williams noted that the performed were “They are incredibly skilled,” she said. “In just two hours, they are truly able to present 5,000 years of Chinese history in chronological order. I really don’t know how they do it, but they do it very well.”
RELATED: Shen Yun at Lincoln Center Draws Enthusiastic Reviews: ‘Exceeded All My Expectations’
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She also emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage. “Presenting tradition is a great thing,” Williams said. “We must remember our traditions.”
Williams noted Shen Yun’s connection to New York, where the company is based, and highlighted the role of the city as a place that supports artistic and cultural expression. “What’s amazing is that Shen Yun was founded here in New York City,” she said. “This is one of the places where freedom of speech and expression truly exists.”
A cultural spectacle
Reflecting on the performance’s broader message, Williams said the production extends beyond visual artistry to explore universal themes. “I think it’s about freedom of expression, and the freedom to practice what you believe,” she said. “There are many programs that speak about our divine nature and making sure we love and care for one another.”
She added that the performance offers multiple layers of meaning, describing it as both educational and inspirational. “It teaches people how to live and how to become a better person, so it really brings a lot of inspiration.”
The final performance drew attendees from a range of professional and cultural backgrounds, many of whom expressed appreciation for the production’s artistic quality and message. Among them was Sin Chung-kai, who also attended the performance and praised its cultural significance. “Shen Yun’s performance restores and promotes traditional culture, which is very good,” he said. “The artistic level is also very high.”
Timeless values
As the curtain fell on the final performance, Williams extended her support and encouragement to the company. “Please continue to maintain such excellence,” she said. “I look forward to next year’s performance, and the next 20 years.”
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.
With its New York season now complete, Shen Yun continues its global tour, bringing classical Chinese dance and music to audiences around the world.
For more information on Shen Yun Performing Arts, including FAQs and ticketing information, please visit the official website here.
