Stepping Into the Uncanny, Unsettling World of Shen Yun

Stepping Into the Uncanny, Unsettling World of Shen Yun

6/26/2019

link

https://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/stepping-into-the-uncanny-unsettling-world-of-shen-yun

summary

This article delves into the world of Shen Yun, a Chinese dance troupe that has gained both popularity and controversy. The author describes attending a performance and provides an overview of the show, which combines classical Chinese dance, music, and storytelling. The article explores the political and cultural undertones of Shen Yun, which is associated with the Falun Gong spiritual movement and often criticized by the Chinese government. It discusses the dazzling visuals and technical expertise of the performance, while also examining the discomfort and unease some audience members may feel due to the underlying messaging and political implications. Overall, the article offers a nuanced perspective on the captivating yet controversial world of Shen Yun.

tags

shen yun ꞏ chinese dance ꞏ music ꞏ performing arts ꞏ traditional culture ꞏ chinese mythology ꞏ falun gong ꞏ traditional chinese costumes ꞏ chinese history ꞏ chinese diaspora ꞏ contemporary dance ꞏ chinese heritage ꞏ classical music ꞏ dance theater ꞏ chinese folklore ꞏ live performance ꞏ cultural preservation ꞏ spiritual themes ꞏ storytelling ꞏ traditional values ꞏ virtuoso performers ꞏ cultural exchange ꞏ traditional arts ꞏ cultural diversity ꞏ cross-cultural experience ꞏ cultural identity ꞏ cultural diplomacy ꞏ east asian culture ꞏ chinese traditions ꞏ theatrical production ꞏ theatrical performance ꞏ artistic expression ꞏ visual spectacle ꞏ historical themes ꞏ cultural heritage ꞏ traditional storytelling ꞏ dance aesthetics ꞏ music composition ꞏ choreography ꞏ stage design ꞏ cultural appreciation ꞏ artistic interpretation ꞏ cross-cultural communication ꞏ cultural critique ꞏ cultural exploration ꞏ artistic innovation ꞏ cultural performance ꞏ symbolic imagery