‘A Divine Story’: Polish Audiences Touched by Shen Yun

NTD Newsroom
Shen Yun
Shen Yun Performing Arts performed in front of a full house at the Grand Theatre in Łódź, Poland, on Jan. 10. Shen Yun tours around the world with a mission to revive traditional Chinese culture, from before communism. Audience members said they were touched by the themes of spirituality in the performance, noting the connection between humanity and the Divine.

Sławomir Roguszewski, a doctor, said, “I think that if such a message is repeated every year, it can bear good fruit. People should try to follow the path of good, not evil. That is how I see it. Because if we are guided by what God would like to be present in our lives, the world becomes a better place. Then this world is worth more for all of us.”

Shen Yun Performing Arts has introduced Polish audiences to the beauty of traditional Chinese culture, presenting an artistry that many describe as perfection.

“The beauty of these people—their behavior, the beautiful costumes, the beautiful culture, the beautiful visuals—wonderful, something beautiful that extends into infinity and offers a broader perspective for the viewer. It is something truly beautiful, and I congratulate you on creating this,” said Zenon Jędrasiak, an engineer.

Aurelia Wojcik, a psychologist, said, “Amazing ballet and amazing movement. I was delighted with the choreography.”

“The dancers are of the highest level. You rarely see such a level on stage,” said her husband, Dariusz Wojcik, also a psychologist.

Besides legends and myths, Shen Yun artists also perform tales of modern-day courage under communist oppression, something audience members in Poland resonated with deeply.

“We also lived through communism here. We’ve heard a lot about what happened in China—it was terrible. We know that not everything can be shown in China, that certain things are forbidden, and that people are expected to do and say what they are told," Mr. Jędrasiak said. "But we all want freedom—freedom of speech, freedom of customs, human rights, cooperation, and reciprocity—not a system in which one person forbids everything to everyone. That is inhumane."

Robert Drozd, a business owner, said, “In my opinion, this is quite a significant loss for the people of China, who are unable to watch or take part in this kind of performance. These are values that the nation may be deprived of.”

“I think it is very sad. In general, I believe that communism—fortunately, it no longer exists in Poland—is something very bad for people. I hope that one day a similar moment will come for China, when all citizens will be able to do what they truly wish,” said Kamila Jarecka-Głowacka, a tax official.

After the performance, some audience members said they hoped to share the experience with family and friends.

Slawomir Ostrowski, a school director, said, “I’ve already been encouraging people and suggesting trips to other cities. Here, tickets sold out a month ago, but we managed to get them. I also have the full program and will be promoting it in my town.”

“You absolutely have to see it,” said Małgorzata Dąbrowska, a concert organizer.

Shen Yun will be performing in Lublin until Jan. 18.
NTD News, Łódźr, Poland

NTD is a media sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts, covering audience reactions since 2006.