Shen Yun performed at the J:COM Hall in Hachioji, Japan, this week. The company uses innovative backdrops in tandem with classical Chinese dance, music, and costumes to take theatergoers on an immersive journey through 5,000 years of Chinese history.
Shiko Fukumoto, a dance teacher, said, “It’s really an outstanding performance. It’s my first time watching Chinese classical dance. The level is amazing. Both the dance and the stage art are so outstanding.”
Tsuboi Honami, a rhythmic gymnastics world champion and former Olympic national team member, said, “there were many parts that drew me in, such as the large-scale movements and acrobatics, accompanied by live music, so I felt really energized.”
Masataka Nakano, a consultant for the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry said, “the live accompaniment is the best! The dance and the live classical music match each other perfectly, and they echo each other.”
Shen Yun’s mission is to bring back China’s rich heritage that is deeply rooted in spirituality; these values were lost since the Chinese communist party came to power.
“I can strongly feel that the actors are dancing with their hearts, so they can express it vividly with their bodies,” said Kumiko Miyaura, a ballet teacher.
“Parts of the show are reflections on contemporary society. It shows freedom and self-thinking,” said Masayuki Yagi, an executive at a machinery manufacturing company. “Even in the absence of words, these expressions are integrated into dance or stories, which makes me very moved.”
Keiji Yamanaka, a former company executive, said, “Chinese traditional culture contains various ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has its own history and culture. It is particularly important to cherish and respect these histories and cultures.”
Shen Yun will tour Japan until Feb. 16.
NTD News, Hachioji, Japan.
