NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey—The evening performance wrapped up the last show of Shen Yun Performing Arts’ 2010 tour in New Brunswick on June 20. The curtains closed to standing ovations at the State Theater, and audience members had a lot to say about the performance of Chinese dance and music.

“It was very well done, very, very well done,” said Fern Randelman, who is retired from the insurance industry, and came to see the show with a group of friends.

“I thought the talent up on that stage was phenomenal,” said Ms. Randelman. “Between the dancing and the singing, magnificent voices, and the orchestra was wonderful as well, and I thought it was a great education opportunity for the American audience.”

Shen Yun Performing Arts pulls its inspiration from China’s 5,000 years of culture, and brings it to life on stage through lively dance and singing.

“I think the symbolism in some of the concepts that were floated out there, I just thought it was mystical and magical,” said Ms. Randelman, adding that seeing Shen Yun is “a chance of a lifetime.”

Among the dance movements used in Shen Yun are classical Chinese dance, as well as Chinese ethnic and folk dance. The dances depict China’s various ethnic groups, stories from various dynasties, and others which pull their inspiration from the rich culture.

Shirley Houck, a nurse aid, said “It’s a chance in a lifetime to see something from another culture. It’s just wonderful.”

Attending the show with Ms. Houck and Ms. Randelman was Sandy Hughes, an executive assistant. “It’s a fantastic show, the colors are fabulous, and just to learn about the culture is more than heartwarming, so it’s very good,” said Ms. Hughes.

Aside from the dances, Shen Yun also includes many colorful costumes, featuring flowing sleeves, the elaborate jewelry of the Hmong people, and the silk dresses.

Virginia Patrick, a retired teacher who came to see the show with her sister, said she was a bit reluctant to go see a Chinese performance, but after seeing it said, “Outstanding. It’s outstanding. I’m really surprised and amazed.”

“It’s more than enjoyable—it’s better than enjoyable,” said Ms. Patrick. “They’re a very talented group. It’s wonderful. I would recommend it to others.”

Ms. Patrick’s sister, Maxine Horvath, also a retired teacher, said she had seen Chinese performances while visiting China, and when she saw advertisements for Shen Yun, she wanted her sister to come along.

“The show has been wonderful, it’s colorful, it’s creative, the synchronization, the rhythm, it’s just wonderful,” said Ms. Horvath.

Shen Yun Performing Arts will travel to Providence, RI, Jun 26 - 27 for two evening performances. For more information please visit, ShenYunPerformingArts.org

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts.

Original article: http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/37702/