Toulon, a picturesque French city on the Mediterranean coast, recently welcomed the world-renowned Shen Yun Performing Arts for a series of four performances at the Zénith Omega from Jan. 4 to 7. The New York-based company captivated its audiences with a powerful message of tradition, bringing to life 5,000 years of Chinese culture and civilization through a stunning display of vibrant colors, elegant dance, and captivating music.
Shen Yun’s performances are a celebration of divinely inspired Chinese culture from before communism, something that struck a deep chord with Toulon’s audience. The show left viewers in awe, with many praising its precision, spiritual depth, and beauty.
A Spectacular Display of Beauty and Precision
Gérard Poizat, a former audit firm owner, expressed his admiration for the show. “Everything is flawless, which is quite rare. We’ve seen other shows before, French or European, and it’s unusual to find one with almost no mistakes,” he said, clearly impressed by the quality of the performance. “The colors are stunning, and the stage backdrops are beautiful. The richness of the colors makes it a real pleasure to watch.”His wife, Véronique Poizat, a former senior treasury controller, echoed his sentiments. “We’re truly delighted. We’re delighted. It’s beautiful, the colors are stunning. The dancers, it’s everything we hoped for. It’s magnificent. Truly magnificent. Honestly, yes. We’re thrilled,” she added.
Movie theater manager Georges Vignati also shared his awe, describing the performance as fascinating and captivating. “You get carried away by the images, by the sound,” he continued. “The show is a pure wonder, it’s absolutely breathtaking in its precision. The synchronization is truly extraordinary, everything is perfect.”
A Deep Emotional Connection
For many, the emotional impact of the performance went beyond the stunning visuals and choreography. Mr. Vignati’s wife, Danielle Dugravot, was one such audience member who felt a deep connection with the show. “I was really connected to it, truly connected. I shed a tear. Yes, I cried. I felt so many emotions that I couldn’t hold back the tears, I can’t quite explain it. I definitely received the message completely,” she said.Mr. Vignati also highlighted the spiritual messages embedded within the show, calling them “very meaningful, beautiful, and extraordinary.” Shen Yun’s mission is to revive the divinely inspired culture of ancient China. The show seeks to bring back the values, virtues, and artistic traditions that were lost under communist rule.
A Show Banned in China
As the audience marveled at the performance, many, like Mrs. Poizat, were struck by the reality that such a show cannot be performed in China. “It’s really unfortunate. We learned from the host that this show can’t be performed in China. How sad! It’s a shame, because it’s truly magical,” she said. “I mean, it is like a fairy tale. It’s wonderful for children and adults alike, and I’m absolutely thrilled.”After its successful run in Toulon, Shen Yun will continue its performances in Rouen, France, until Jan. 14, before arriving in Paris on Jan. 23.
NTD News, Toulon, France
NTD is a media sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts, covering audience reactions since 2006.
