Madison Audience Member Calls Shen Yun ‘Authentic’ and ‘Pure’

February 27, 2024

Shen Yun Performing Arts concluded two full-house performances at the Overture Center for the Arts in Madison, Wisconsin, from Feb. 10–11. Audience members applauded Shen Yun’s authenticity, beauty, and artistry.

Suzanne Harker, an interior designer, attended Shen Yun with friends. “This is the second time I’ve seen it. And it’s exceptional. That’s why I returned.”

Thomas Hou, a Chinese immigrant, said: “It’s amazing. It’s brilliant. It’s probably the best Chinese cultural show I’ve ever seen. I’ve been to Shen Yun before in 2019. And this is my second time. Every time, it’s very impressive.”

Suzanne Harker said: “As an interior designer, I actually appreciated the color, the costumes. And the fact that they are different every year is the creative energy. And also the gorgeous music. If you can stand to close your eyes and miss a little bit of the performance. The music could carry you a long way. It’s a lovely combination. Well worth it.”

Mr. Hou said: “I grew up in China, growing up in the environment where … the TV is mostly politicized by the government. So it does not feel like authentic and does not feel like it’s really centered, focusing on the culture, and this show, I think the cultural aspect is absolutely authentic and pure, and it’s impeccable.”

From legends and myths to modern-day stories, Shen Yun presents 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture through story-based dance.

Reverend Scott Piper of the Light of Christ Lutheran Fellowship in Madison said: “One thing from this, it would be hope. If folks are willing to come together and put this kind of effort and time into such beautiful art. And so many folks are coming to see it, that there is hope.”

Lowell Steen Jr., MD, chief of cardiology at Chicago’s Loyola University Medical Center, said: ”I happen to have a lot of respect for the Chinese culture. And I feel terrible [about] the politics of China. And I think this is a wonderful expression of how Chinese culture really endures. So, it means a lot to me to be able to see this.”

Audience members gave their appreciation to Shen Yun for delivering a wonderful performance.

Reverend Piper said: “Thank you, thank you so much for giving us this gift and for answering the call to do this kind of work, and I offer them a blessing upon everything that they do for their nation moving forward.”

Dr. Steen said: “Thank you for keeping your history and the art that you have produced through the centuries and allow everyone to see it, even though maybe in your own country. It’s a little bit suppressed right now.”

Ms. Harker said: “Congratulations for staying with it. Your discipline for your faith, your discipline for your physical and mental health is very admirable.”

NTD News, Madison, Wisconsin