Shen Yun Performing Arts captivated audiences at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio, Texas, on Jan. 10. Theatergoers were mesmerized by a glimpse into the rich traditions of ancient Chinese culture.

“I have never seen such wonderful stage acting in the dance. I feel like I’ve seen Swan Lake, I’ve seen the Nutcracker, and I’ve seen other famous shows before. I can’t even compare. It’s just absolutely sublime,” said Kristin Carl, a staff judge advocate for the U.S. Air Force.

“Everything comes to life, just the movement, the color brings the movement. So I’m really, really happy to be here. This is the first time, and I can’t wait to see it again. Just because of the colors making us so happy,” said Rosie Bella Gastelum, a designer.

“They need to come, they really need to come. They’ll enjoy it, there’s something for everybody. And I think this is a great opportunity for people to come and have fun with their family, their loved ones. I had a really good time, so come on down,” said Myrna Martinez, the director of information services.

Shen Yun travels around the world with a live orchestra that combines both traditional Chinese and Western instruments.

Ms. Carl said, “I really liked the blend of Western traditional orchestra with some traditional Chinese instruments. I thought it was really special. When I saw that in the program when I was sitting down, it made me really excited.”

Shen Yun’s mission is to revive 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture and values, which have been under attack since the Chinese Communist Party took power in 1949. The company also cannot perform in China, because it shines a light on the regime’s human rights abuses and brutal persecution of faith.

“I think that any time any one of us has the opportunity to spread that message, and you can do it on a stage and globally, I think that’s a great thing that they’re choosing to use their talents. To be able to tell people what they’ve gone through and what their experiences are,” said Ms. Martinez.

“I hope to see them again next year,“ she said. ”It’s really enlightening, and you walk out of here with a different sense for what others are going through, and it’s done so beautifully. So, thank you.”

Shen Yun will be performing at the Eisemann Center in Dallas, Texas, from Jan. 17 through to Jan. 25.

NTD News, San Antonio, Texas

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