Shen Yun Performing Arts comes to Vancouver with a stunning performance at Queen Elizabeth Theatre from January 29 to 31. The company has made a name for itself because is a world-class show and is always a very special experience for those who see it.
It has played at many of the most prestigious theatres around the world, including New York’s Radio City Music Hall, London’s Royal Festival Hall, and Le Palias de Congres in Paris.
Based in New York, Shen Yun came into being in 2006 with a vision of cultural renewal—to revive the traditional culture of ancient China that was basically gutted after the current communist regime took power.
Destructive campaigns such as the Cultural Revolution devastated the old traditions and the core of the culture. Shen Yun’s mission is to bring about a renaissance of the essence of that culture and the universal values inherent in it, such as honour, loyalty, kindness, tolerance, filial piety (respect for parents), and reverence for the divine.
Since making its debut on Broadway in 2006, Shen Yun has expanded to four companies, each with its own full orchestra—such is the demand for this unique show. Each season these four companies tour North America, Europe, Oceania, and Asia—over 20 countries in all. And each year it brings an entirely new production to the stage, drawing inspiration from China’s rich 5,000-year-old culture.
The hallmark of Shen Yun is classical Chinese dance, an ancient art form that has been refined over the ages and which is richly expressive. Although very graceful, classical Chinese dance can also be very athletic, as it includes flips, spins, high-flying jumps, and tumbling. It’s easy to see how acrobatics originated from classical Chinese dance.
Loosely translated, “Shen Yun” means “the beauty of divine beings dancing.” Through dance, Shen Yun portrays myths, legends, and classic stories from China’s long and rich history. The show also includes ethnic and folk dances as well as performances by vocal soloists with piano accompaniment. The lyrics offer a glimpse into traditional Chinese thought and belief.
All this is topped off by a unique orchestra that that blends the spirit of Chinese music with the grandeur of a western orchestra. Western strings, percussion, woodwinds, and brass accentuate the sound of ancient Chinese instruments such as the erhu and pipa, producing a fresh, new orchestral sound.
Another unique aspect of Shen Yun is its digitally animated backdrop. It serves to extend the stage and enhance the storytelling. Officially patented, Shen Yun’s projection integration is recognized as an innovation in the world of performing arts. For more information and tickets, visit shenyun.com
