The annual Shen Yun dance/music spectacle is always one of the most heavily promoted theater shows of the year. Thousands of fliers are passed out at theaters around the state. There are billboards, print ads and word of mouth.
So what’s all the noise about? Classical Asian dance, elaborate costumes, live orchestral music, artistic projections and lighting, and emcees who introduce the various acts of the two-hour presentation in both English and Chinese.
The nonprofit Shen Yun company is based in New York, so (according to its website) “its artistic creators are able to freely express themselves and revive their ancient Chinese culture. Such artistic freedom is unfortunately not present in China under the communist regime, which has co-opted and destroyed traditional arts.”
“Shen Yun 2016” has three performances at the Palace Theater, 100 E. Main St., Waterbury, Saturday, Feb. 13, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 14, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $65 to $125. Information: 203-346-2000, shenyunperformingarts.org.
