“Oh, it was just amazing. The choreography, the photography that went into the special effects was just phenomenal,” Mr. Pierce said, who taught physics and astronomy.
Stephen Osborn, an oil and gas investor, said Shen Yun was “absolutely gorgeous.”
“The dancers were incredible. The stories are fun,” Mr. Osborn added.
His son, Joseph Osborn, also saw the performance.
“The dancers and the music really spoke to my heart,” he said. “I think they do a wonderful job together, between the music and the dance. You can feel a wonderful story without a single word,” Joseph said, who is also an investor.
The live orchestra caught the attention of Natalie Hales, who teaches music and art at Cheyenne Classical Academy.
She commented on the instruments, cost of travel, and said Shen Yun’s conductor was well-prepared.
“To bring your musicians with you is quite an undertaking,” Ms. Hales said.
“And the music uplifts the story, and it brings a special light to the stage,” she added.
Based in New York, Shen Yun’s mission is to revive genuine traditional culture.
From legends to modern day stories of the current persecution happening in China, many patrons appreciated the experience.
It was his birthday gift.
“I fought back a tear when I saw the most emotional presentation about the treatment of these good people by the communist party,” Mr. Feldhahn said.
Mark Moody, a councilman for Ward III of Cheyenne, was also in attendance. Mr. Moody called the experience amazing.
“And also to keep praying for the people there, currently in China,” he said, adding that he’s glad Shen Yun “is here throughout the country.”
Xavier Walter, who works as a director of outreach in the energy industry, said he was most touched by the persecution piece.
“They were being persecuted for just meditating at the park,” Mr. Walter said.
“I think that’s a freedom that we take for granted here in the United States that many people around the world don’t get to see,” he said.
Marina Volosov said she grew up in communist Russia.
“[Shen Yun] gives a very good picture of China before communism,” said Ms. Volosov, who is currently a board member at NoCoNet.
“It’s very interesting, very beautiful, very enjoyable, and it exceeded my expectations,” she said.
During the performance, Shen Yun portrayed ancient Chinese culture and universal values such as hope—something the theatergoers resonated with.
“I’m hoping that someday they will be able to perform there [in China],” said Eric Hulett, who retired as assistant police chief at the Longmont police department.
“Or perhaps things will change there, and they can keep this alive here and transport it there someday,” Mr. Hulett said.
John Sundahl, a retired attorney, was impressed by how all the performers were “so graceful.”
“I’m going to go back again the next time you come here, or next time I’m able to go down to Denver. It’s just a delightful, delightful experience,” Mr. Sundahl said.
Mr. Feldhahn said the performance was “something the world needs to hear more and more.”
And Mr. Pierce, said he came to see Shen Yun on the recommendation of his daughter, who watched it several years ago in Oklahoma City.
“I would encourage people to see it,” Mr. Pierce said.
