Shen Yun Is ‘Spectacular, Phenomenal, Beautiful,’ Says Newark Audience Member

NTD Newsroom
Shen Yun
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark was filled with theatergoers on May 1 for a performance by Shen Yun Performing Arts. Through classical Chinese dance and music, the company aims to share the beauty of "China before communism."

“I have goosebumps and I feel like I have tears in my eyes,” said Candace Benzel, a company senior vice president. “It's absolutely spectacular, phenomenal, beautiful. I feel like I've learned a lot in this past hour and a half that we've been in this theater, and I'm in awe of what they've done.”

“The Shen Yun artists captivate my heart. From the instrumental, the orchestra, the people who play the piano, the tenor and the singers and the soprano. But the dancers, I've never seen something like that. They're so synchronized,” said Leo Bangug, a company representative.

Shen Yun draws its inspiration from the 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. Ancient Chinese people believed their culture and values to be inspired by the divine. Since the communist party took power in mainland China in 1949, the regime has disconnected today’s Chinese people from their authentic culture, and persecuted those with faith.

“That's mind-blowing and it’s eye-opening. I never realized that was going on in China today. And the fact that that one scene that they depicted is a true story, that was very scary, and I'm happy to learn about it,” said Ms. Benzel. “People should always stand for their beliefs, whatever their beliefs are. I truly believe that people should speak their own truths.”

“I was very happy, and more people should see the show and tell your story to the world,” said Peter DeAngelis, a senior financial consultant.

“Good will always overcome evil, and I think that's what the show expresses,” said Michael Falzone, a former sales manager. “Thank you very much for your time and effort that you put into this show. It was very enlightening, and it makes you feel a lot nicer about things. There is a good side to the planet.”

Shen Yun will be performing at the Blaisdell Concert Hall in Honolulu, Hawaii, from May 8–10.
NTD News, Newark, New Jersey

NTD is a media sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts, covering audience reactions since 2006.