With the spread of the coronavirus a continuing public concern, the Shen Yun company has been fielding enquiries as to whether their upcoming tour is still going ahead.
As it happens, this premier touring Chinese dance and music company is not from China. It was established in New York in 2006, where it remains based – and in fact the company is not allowed to perform in China. So Melbourne’s dates (March 27 to April 5) will be going ahead as planned at the Arts Centre Melbourne.
The show is a celebration of China’s cultural heritage before the Communist Revolution. A large company of dancers performs folk and classical Chinese dances to the accompaniment of a live orchestra. The performance consists of about 20 pieces, quickly moving from one legend, region, or dynasty to the next. Themes range from the elegance of Tang court ladies to the battlefield heroics of valiant generals, from the philosophical works of Lao-Tzu to spectacular scenes of magical realms, from Himalayan temples to the modern-day streets of Beijing.
Costumes and sets are vibrantly colourful, and the dancers are technically astonishing. Expect breathtaking visuals replete with fans, big sleeves, drums, martial arts and athleticism. The show is hosted by bilingual emcees providing helpful background information.
Tickets are on sale now to this show that millions around the world have already enjoyed.
