“The overall impression just blew me away. I mean, the program structure, the presentation, all the costumes. And I have to admit, I only came because there was a live orchestra,” said Johanna Wolf, an actress and director. “Then there was the choreography. I felt that the build-up after the intermission was really well thought out. And it completely swept me away, I have to say.”
“A truly fantastic show. The combination of dance and music was impressive, especially the classical music, particularly the piano, combined with the Chinese instruments. It was very impressive to hear, and we were truly surprised,” said Christian Bühler, the chairman of the Farmers and Producers Association.
Lucia Frank, a singing teacher, said, “I was deeply moved by the truly profound spiritual message. I had absolutely no idea about it, but God has obviously led me here. And there is so much truth in it, from the first sentence to the last.”
Through classical Chinese dance and music, Shen Yun aims to revive 5,000 years of traditional culture and values of China before communism.
“It was very entertaining and exciting to see how each piece was interpreted. So, besides the music, the stories were beautifully told and always conveyed a little message. It was all very nice,” Mr. Bühler said. “One example of a message we got was, you reap what you sow. And we’ve always seen this clearly: those who give something ultimately receive something in return. It was very impressive, and that’s what characterizes Chinese culture.”
Ms. Wolf said, “And the sheer variety of expressive possibilities, the dramatic flair in the stories, especially in the second part, is fantastic. Yes, as I said, it’s really rare for me to agree with everything. But here I have to say it.”
“What I found very remarkable is that the whole thing isn’t allowed to be shown in China to this day. And yet, the resonance it finds in the world. And that truly the most beautiful thing one can reveal, to connect it with this beautiful message, I find absolutely worthy of support,” Ms. Frank said.
“I would say, and to our origins, to what was actually instilled in us from birth. The connection to nature and the beauty in music, in dance, in all of art,” Ms. Frank said. “One is simply drawn to this beauty. I think we all have this inner hunger for it. And that’s why I think it’s wonderful. I always try to connect these things when singing and making music.”
Ms. Wolf said, “I’d like to tell the artists that I can imagine how much practice went into this. And I can only say that it’s worth it.”
Ms. Frank said, “God bless you. And I bow respectfully in appreciation of such discipline. And to be so dedicated to something so beautiful, working around the clock. What a life’s work and what a blessing for all who are privileged to be a part of it. Thank you so much.”
“It’s definitely worth coming here and seeing it, and you should definitely take the time to check it out,” Mr. Bühler said.
