Shen Yun Performing Arts at Orpheum Theatre

Taking its first stage performance in 2007 by a group of 90 artists who were all part of the Falun Gong new religious movement, Shen Yun Performing Arts set out on its very first tour. Unsurprisingly, the audience reception to the series of shows was overwhelmingly positive, noting its artistry and excellence in performance. Because of the performing ensemble's rapid growth, it established an orchestra in 2009. Having seven separate groups touring at once helps get Shen Yun to perform for many people across the globe. By 2010, more than a million people had witnessed Shen Yun's performances.

Over the years, Shen Yun has grown to be one of the industry standards of what performing arts should be. The New York-based dance ensemble has traveled the world and performed in major cities across the world. Around 40 dancers make up Shen Yun's traveling troupe. Several dances are performed in each show, which draws inspiration from various stories and legends from Chinese cultures, such as "Mulan," "Journey to the West," and "Outlaws of the Marsh."

In addition, the dance company also features the accounts of Falun Gong practitioners. The three pillars of classical Chinese dance are used in the performances: "bearing" (emotion, cultural, and ethnic character), "form" (expressive gestures and postures), and "technical proficiency" all fall under this umbrella (physical techniques of jumping, flipping, and leaping).

Moreover, traditional Chinese instruments are commonly used to accompany the dances, including the pipa, suona, dizi, guzheng, and a host of other Chinese percussion instruments. At the same time, the orchestra serves as a source of creativity for the songs' melodies. Chinese musical styles often feature solo performances by artists playing traditional instruments. The plot of the dance dictates the aesthetic and costume choices made by the dancers. There are a few costumes that are accurate portrayals of traditional dress from different cultures. Contrarily, some recall classical Chinese court dancers, soldiers, or legendary heroes.

The Shen Yun Performing Arts will have one of its touring productions stop at the Orpheum Theatre in Omaha, Nebraska, on April 3, Monday. Don't miss out on the chance to see this incredible performance. Please consider purchasing your tickets as soon as possible.