Interviews by Julie Wang
STAMFORD, CT — On May 10, Shen Yun Performing Arts wrapped up its seasonal finale with a fully sold-out five-show run at the city’s prestigious Palace Theatre. Audiences offered glowing reviews following the performances, praising the production’s immersive artistry, innovative digital backdrop, vibrant costumes, and classical Chinese dance and choreography rooted in traditional Chinese culture.
Founded in 2006 in New York, Shen Yun has since grown into the world’s leading classical Chinese dance and music company, dedicated to reviving the beauty of China’s 5,000 years of traditional culture before the rise of communism. The company now features eight touring groups that perform simultaneously around the globe, presenting an entirely new production each season through a blend of classical Chinese dance, live orchestral music, and digital stage artistry.
RELATED: ‘Absolutely Gorgeous’: Shen Yun Brings Beauty, Tradition, and Hope to Stamford
‘A wonderful performance’
Retired sports teacher Tim Downey attended the performance on Sunday afternoon and said it was his second time seeing the production. “It’s a wonderful performance, (and) it is my second time here,” Downey told Vision Times during intermission. “The dancing is amazing. The costumes are incredible. I encourage everybody to come see this show.”
Success
You are now signed up for our newsletter
Success
Check your email to complete sign up
Downey said one of the most memorable aspects of the performance was Shen Yun’s signature animated backdrop and its interaction with performers on stage. “I think is very interesting, a little different. The way they’re popping off the screen and the back is pretty amazing,” he said.
He also praised the choreography and visual presentation throughout the performance. “The transition from a different dances, the colorful outfits and the costumes are just amazing,” he said. Downey, who said he taught sports for 27 and a half years and worked with curriculum that included dance, described the production as both entertaining and unique. “It’s really phenomenal, and fun to see and every year is different. And I will definitely come back again,” he said.
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.
‘Beautiful and inspiring’
Also attending the performance were Stephanie and Luke Sherwin, professionals in the insurance industry, who brought their seven-year-old daughter to watch the show on Mother’s Day. “This is our first time watching something like this and so we’re learning about the Chinese culture and the history,” said Stephanie, adding, “The dancing is very beautiful, and it’s very inspiring.”
Luke told reporters that he was eager to see the remainder of the production during intermission. “I’m looking forward to the second half of the show,” he said.
When asked if they had any favorite segments, the couple’s daughter Selfie said her favorite was the story of the Monkey King, a legendary figure from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West.
Aside from showcasing stunning choreography, acrobatics, and a live orchestra that combines traditional Western and classical Chinese instruments, Shen Yun’s performances depict legends and historical stories from ancient China as well as modern tales of bravery and oppression taking place in China today.
‘It was perfect’
Following the performance, Tina and Leo Sheehan also shared their impressions of the show, describing it as both artistic and educational. “We love the show,” said Leo. “It was perfect,” Tina added. “It was a creative way of educating people about your traditional Chinese [culture] through music and dance. So it was beautiful and perfect.”
Tina, a physical therapist, and Leo, a landlord and developer, told Vision Times that it was their first time attending Shen Yun. The couple noted that they are most proud of their roles as stay-at-home parents.
Leo praised the performers’ skill and the creativity of the production. “The dancers are super talented and perfect,” said Leo. He also said he appreciated how the company presents a different production each season. “Every year you have a different (show),” Leo said. “I would come again to see the next show.”
Throughout the performance, audience members said Shen Yun left a powerful impression not only through its visual grandeur and athletic precision, but through the deeper emotion and storytelling woven into each piece. By combining classical Chinese dance, live orchestral music, vivid costumes, and narratives inspired by traditional culture, the production resonated with theatergoers from all walks of life and backgrounds.
For more information on Shen Yun Performing Arts, including FAQs and ticketing information, please visit the official website.
