Shen Yun concluded three shows at the Luis A. Ferré Performing Arts Center in San Juan on Jan. 21 and 22. The dance company’s mission is to revive 5,000 years of China’s divinely inspired culture.
Aideliz Hidalgo is a model, founder, and director of Passarella by Aideliz. She said, “I think that is a gift for all of us that are here today, to know a really essential part of Chinese culture. I didn’t have any idea about all this other side of your culture, and for me it has been really touching, like the spiritual message that you guys bring us.”
Sylvia Cestero, the director and founder of San Juan Hotel School, said “We feel transformed with what we have experienced, watching those great artists manifest all the greatness of the world and the magic of the show and the dance.”
Shen Yun uses an innovative 3D backdrop in tandem with classical Chinese dance, music, and costume to give audience members a fully immersive experience. The performance explores the stories of ancient legends, as well as modern issues surrounding communist China’s suppression of spirituality.
“It’s just great. You enjoy it because it’s magical. You kind of get involved and you understand the tales of Chinese culture, which some of us are not familiar with. And also the battles that they go through, obviously against communism and the crimes that occur. … So when you come across and explain that or you bring it forth in dance, it’s present there. That emotion is there,” said Stephanie Lopez, a dancer.
“I am impressed by the synchronization of the dances and the message in each scenario, of the situations that are expressed clearly,” said Roberto Córdoba, a retired bank president.
“So everything was very well choreographed and the music was part of it. It made a difference because it felt that it was part of one thing, and not just something separate,” said Marta Hernandez, a musician.
“Not only do you get involved with the performers and the colors and the music also, but I think it’s really fun to see how you portray your culture and your mythology in a way that is engaging, both with digital and the actual physical performances here,” said Noel Ortega, a singer.
“The important thing about being spiritual is not just being human, especially in today’s days with all the technology. We are more than that, human connection and spiritual guidance is the most important thing. So for me, that’s the message that this amazing dancing and show has given me,” said Ms. Hidalgo.
Shen Yun will perform at the Merrill Auditorium in Portland on Feb. 10.
NTD News, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
