“I thought the show was absolutely wonderful,” said Mr. Gonzalez. “The dancing, the theme, the message were all wonderful. You’re doing wonderful, wonderful work. Your message and your performance and your smile and your vibrant energy are what give this show 10 stars.”
Mr. Gonzalez, who represents the Ninth Legislative District, was re-elected for his third consecutive term in 2023. He is also a professional singer with over 40 years of experience and was a member of a Grammy-nominated Latin band.
Mr. Gonzalez said, “I think in every one of the performances, the message came out loud and clear. As an artist, the message in every single performance, every piece came through. I know it got to me, and if it got to me, I know that it got to each and every one in that audience.”
“Wonderful work. Just beautiful. The orchestra was outstanding. The dancers were outstanding. The costumes, choreography, and the message. So I just thank all of you for the work that you’ve done,” said Rhonda Kaplan, a financial firm vice president.
Michael Reid, a senior financial leader, said, “They’re doing amazing. To every performer, to everyone behind the scenes, the musical performers, the dancers, everyone, the way that everyone’s hitting their mark simultaneously is truly excellent and truly commendable. And we’re all enjoying it so much.”
Mr. Gonzalez said, “It is not allowing this beautiful show, the message of the people, allowing their freedom of expression back in China. And to have this here and present it here in the States and not at home is sacrilege. That’s the message I got from this show.”
“It’s horrifying. And it’s very real, very real. So we all need to speak out against this and to let freedom ring. That’s really what it’s all about,” said Ms. Kaplan.
Shen Yun’s orchestra features a unique combination of classical Western and Eastern instruments. The performance also features solo performances by singers, which left a deep impression on the audience.
“She was absolutely wonderful, not only the vocal, but you have to understand, it’s her message, what she was trying to talk about, your spirit, your belief, and that is always so important. They can’t be one without the other. You have to have inner peace, you have to have that love for faith. And I think that’s important,” said Mr. Gonzalez.
Ms. Kaplan said, “I’d like many people to know about it and many more people to come see it.”
