Shen Yun Classical Chinese dance

[Anonymous]

I was thrilled when I read that Bakersfield would be hosting Shen Yun! I honestly did not know what to expect because I have never been to a Chinese ballet or dance program. First and foremost, the dancers were amazing! At times they appeared to be floating across the stage. Costumes were beautiful and the different fabric that was used moved so beautifully and became one with the dancers. The art of Chinese dancing is different from other types of dance; however, there are many similarities that most likely have been emulated and incorporated into all types of dancing.
One of my favorite parts of this program was the live orchestra. They combined both western and Chinese instruments. Hearing the flute, bassoon, and oboe, provided an interesting and different sound to the music. I was also impressed by the singers and pianists. They featured a Tenor, Baritone, and Soprano, giving variety to the solos that were accompanied by trained pianists. This is a show that I would recommend and will see again if given the opportunity.

[Rob_Hugo@PortNW]

http://www.scfta.org/Events/Detail.aspx?id=13675
https://www.shenyunperformingarts.org/news/view/article/e/QcKKrpHNpUw/ballet-classical-chinese-dance-differences

I saw the National Ballet of China perform Raise the Red Lantern years ago and have been replaying it in my mind ever since. It was a striking performance that I little understood at the time; it wasn't traditional Western ballet, but it wasn't Chinese acrobatics either. It was beautiful, skillful, and emotional. I can't find a website for the National Ballet of China any longer (it looks like it hasn't been updated since 2006 and the link no longer works). I followed them for some time after the performance I watched but for a time they weren't allowed to perform outside of China. I have season tickets to Segerstrom Center for the Arts and saw a troupe called Shen Yun which is reminiscent of the National Ballet. They are performing this week April 12-17, 2016 for those interested and able to find a ticket). From their website (link above), it is classical Chinese dance. A wonderful page on the site details the differences between Western ballet and Classical Chinese dance. This helped me understand the style of dance that so confused me the first time I witnessed it. Like Western ballet though, it incorporates classically trained dancers, orchestra, and dramatic sets to tell a story. I look forward to attending a performance and the treasures of Chinese culture that are brought to American stage & theater.

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