This January, the world-famous Shen Yun Performing Arts troupe will light up the stage at the Harris Center in Folsom. With two performances on January 13 and 14, audiences will be transported through time, exploring China’s ancient history and traditions through dance, music, and stunning visuals.
The Venue: Harris Center for the Arts
Located at 10 College Parkway in Folsom, the Harris Center is a premier performing arts venue that offers an intimate yet grand setting for Shen Yun’s spectacular show. With its state-of-the-art acoustics and comfortable seating, the theater ensures that every audience member has a great view of the stage. If you’re wondering about ticket prices, they range from $106 to $236, depending on your seating choice. Whether you prefer the orchestra pit or the balcony, there’s a spot for everyone.
What Is Shen Yun?
Shen Yun Performing Arts was established in 2006 by a group of Chinese artists based in New York. Their mission? Revive traditional Chinese culture through classical dance and music—art forms nearly lost during China’s Cultural Revolution. The name “Shen Yun” translates to “the beauty of divine beings dancing,” the performance lives up to this poetic description.
Each year, Shen Yun presents a new production featuring classical Chinese dance, ethnic and folk dances, and solo performances. The show also incorporates a live orchestra that blends Western and Eastern instruments for a unique musical experience. Add to that stunning digital backdrops and intricate costumes, and you’ve got a performance that’s as visually captivating as culturally enriching.
What to Expect
Shen Yun’s performances are structured as a series of vignettes or short stories. These range from ancient legends like Journey to the West to modern tales of resilience and faith. The dancers’ movements are precise yet fluid, often incorporating acrobatic flips and leaps that leave audiences in awe. The choreography is complemented by vibrant costumes—flowing silk robes, embroidered tunics, and colorful headdresses—that bring each story to life.
One of Shen Yun’s standout features is its patented digital backdrop technology. Imagine dancers leaping off the stage and appearing to soar into heavenly realms on a giant screen behind them. This seamless integration of live performance and animation adds more magic to the show.
A Deeper Message
While Shen Yun is primarily an artistic celebration of Chinese heritage, it also carries a deeper message about spirituality and freedom. Some segments touch on themes like courage in the face of oppression or the search for harmony between humanity and nature. These elements add emotional depth to the performance, making it more than just entertainment—it’s an experience that resonates on multiple levels.
Why You Should Go
- Cultural Immersion: Shen Yun offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Chinese culture without leaving California.
- Family-Friendly: With its colorful visuals and engaging stories, the show appeals to audiences of all ages.
- World-Class Talent: The performers are among the best in their fields, trained in classical Chinese dance techniques that date back thousands of years.
- Unique Music: The live orchestra combines traditional Chinese instruments like the erhu with Western strings and brass for a familiar and exotic sound.
- Visual Spectacle: From dazzling costumes to high-tech backdrops, every element of Shen Yun is designed to wow.
Plan Your Visit
Mark your calendars! Performances are scheduled for Tuesday, January 14, at 7:30 PM and Wednesday, January 15, at 2:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased through Shen Yun’s official website or by calling their ticketing hotline. Parking is available at the Harris Center, but it’s always a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.
If you’re traveling from outside Folsom, consider staying overnight at one of the area’s hotels or exploring local attractions like Folsom Lake or historic downtown Folsom. Make it a cultural getaway!
Sources: allevents.in, shenyun.com
Header Image Source: shenyun.com
