How to Watch Classical Chinese Dance as a Non Chinese Dancer

  In China, dancing is an extremely diverse form of art that consists of several traditional and contemporary dance genres. These dances cover an extensive range, starting from folk dances up to performances in ballet and opera, and might be utilized in ceremonies, rituals and public celebrations. Also, there are 56 officially renowned ethnic groups […]

Which Came First – Classical Chinese Dance Or Ballet?

Aficionados of classical music often love seeing live performances of their favorite pieces accompanied by traditional dance acts. While ballet may have been the gold standard of classical music, it’s not necessarily the oldest of the classical dance genre. Here’s a brief history on both, as well as the overall verdict as to which is […]

7 Differences between Ballet and Classical Chinese Dance

Much like classical ballet, classical Chinese dance is one of the most complex forms of dance in the world. Relatively unheard of in the world of Western dance until a few years ago, this dance has become more popular since Shen Yun Performing Arts opened in New York in 2006. You may be surprised to […]

How to Enjoy Dance Shows at Ikeda Theater, Mesa Arts Center

The Ikeda Theater at the Mesa Arts Center sits at the heart of downtown Mesa, Arizona and is owned by the charming city. This award winning theater is part of the Mesa Art Center, which has 14 art studios, five art galleries and four theaters. It is a beautiful complex and has interesting architecture which […]

Classical Chinese Dance

Classical Chinese dance can entrance audiences everywhere. Yet few people realize how training plays a critical role in perfecting the graceful moves shown by classical Chinese dance performers. Apart from learning the basic components like expressing innermost feelings, classical Chinese dance performers must also master the dance acting element. Classical Chinese dance may be distinguished […]

Shen Yun Couture Behind the Scenes – An Experience of the Making of Shen Yun costumes

400 plus elegant Chinese costumes used in each of Shen Yun performances. All the costumes are handmade, each piece takes 8-15 hours to make.

Dance Creation – How a Shen Yun Dance Comes to Be

September is off-season for the Shen Yun Performing Arts. On the other hand, it is the time of year when the Shen Yun Performing Arts groups are in the midst of their “first draft”. A big show is on its way come December, the peak of the winter season where everyone gathers to see yet […]

Performing Arts: The Vital Role It Plays In Our Lives

Have you ever tried to express yourself without the use of your body or voice? Is it even possible? To understand the vital role that the performing arts will play in our lives, you’ll need to understand more about the need for self-expression, as well as the need to see this self-expression in others. Here […]

“Fish light”—The Dancer’s Magical Dance Weapon

“Fish light” is a magical weapon you can use in dance. Fishes have eyes on the sides of their heads helping them to always be on the lookout. Fishes can sense objects by detecting small vibrations around them which is especially useful when trying to swim in schools.   It’s important for fishes to stay […]

Aerial Work of Art – Ms. Lin-Jieh Huang (Artist Profile)

Lin-Jieh Huang, leaps into a 180 degrees plus split in the air in her solo performance. Her gracefulness and control of movement could defy gravity. She pauses in midair like an elegant peacock.