RAPID CITY, S.D.—Shen Yun Performing Arts performed in South Dakota on April 15. Audience members, including filmmaker Egija Salem, spoke about the beauty of the performance.
“[It] was absolutely gorgeous,” said Salem, who is also on the board of directors for the Black Hills Film Festival.
“I think it’s amazing how they synchronize everything. Like when every single stage and people come off and everything,” Salem said.
“It was like they were floating on air the whole time. It’s amazing,” said Elijah Schafnitz, partner at Brighter Electric.
Camille Pauley, president of the non-profit Healing the Culture, said that “the tenor was amazing.”
“It was beautiful to hear that kind of singing in a different language, and see a faith behind it as well. Just to hear that there was something strong behind it was wonderful,” Pauley said.
Salem found a connection with the performance, which includes 2 pieces on the persecution of faith happening in China today.
“Let’s think how people still have courage to do that. And even with the times when you are oppressed, you still go out and still, you keep your beliefs,” Salem said.
“And [Shen Yun is] not afraid to share that. You take what is true, and good, and beautiful, and you inspire other people to stand up for their beliefs and their faith, and we’re grateful for that,” Pauley said.
The New York-based Shen Yun was established in 2006 and now has 8 different companies touring the world.
“It’s amazing for anyone to come to—young or old, everyone would enjoy it,” Schafnitz said.
“I think it’s also so timely to show people, here in America, too—what people go through in China,” Salem said.
NTD News, Rapid City.
