Shen Yun Performing Arts took to the stage on Feb. 17 and 18 at Regent Theater in Stoke on Trent.
“I am absolutely gobsmacked. I just thought it was absolutely such an amazing performance. It was emotional, it was strong, and it had a very good story in each [piece],” said Peter Willstrop, an engineer.
“Amazing, fantastic. Wonderful music, beautiful dancing. The colors were just fascinating,” said the Director of the Regional Chamber of Commerce, Catherine Crockett.
Director of International Muaythai Federation UK, Nick Brent, said it was “absolutely fantastic.”
“Great message, great cultural values,” he said.
Mr. Brent added, “It’s a positive message in the world that’s out of balance. We need to bring back balance. So there’s a lot of darkness, isn’t there? So this kindness and compassion message through dance, art, martial art, creativity. It’s got to be a positive thing for the world and humanity.”
“I didn’t realize it was like that,” Mr. Willstrop said. “I didn’t realize that there was a China before communism. Obviously, there is, but when you actually see it and see it performed, you realize just how strong it is. So it made me feel for them.”
Due to the communist regime’s repression of authentic Chinese culture, the New York-based performing arts company has not been able to perform in China.
“I felt that it was so sad. I had no understanding that they couldn’t perform in their own country. So very sad for them, but very, very glad that they can go out to the world and perform in the way that they do. So amazing,” Ms. Crockett said.
“It’s quite sad to know that people are still oppressed for their religion and their beliefs even now,” said Miki Kukawski, an engineer. “There were some sad stories, but again, I think the great power of faith prevailed in the end.”
Audience members said they felt moved by the performance of classical Chinese dance combined with a live orchestra.
“Just moved in a spiritual mind, physical sense, moved, that humanity, people coming together, people in the same vibe, if you like, with this positivity,” Mr. Brent said.
“I think it’s nice to switch off for a while,” said Crockett. “I think it makes you feel much calmer. And so I think it’s valuable to everybody, all ages. So they should just try it for a couple of hours. It’s very good.”
