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Their impressions

Mr. Eric Leyvraz, president of the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva (President of the parliament): « The show was so fantastic that they did not feel the passage of time, » said Mr Leyvraz. « It was really fantastic and also the message at the end … both the expression on their faces and the high expression of their bodies was beautiful, it was really great, » said Mrs. Leyvraz.
Claude Proz, director of the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva: « I think this year it has reached a summit in what can be achieved, it was an extremely professional show, moving, with programs that tell a great deal. They're short, they're beautiful and they tell a great deal about the message that they try to convey. I thought it was exceptional! The men are magnificent, but the grace of those young ladies, when they move, it's as though they're not touching the ground, as if they're floating because they're so light, they move with so much finesse. It's joyful, it's enjoyable and it's real high quality. »
Mc Millan, European Parliament Vice-president: « One of the reasons why Divine Performing Arts is such a global sensation is the way in which the enormously talented dancers, musicians, choreographers, costume designers and set designers manage to engage ancient Chinese legends of virtue with contemporary tales or courage, creating a modern-day epic that can be enjoyed by East and West alike. »
Mr Hans-Gert Pöttering, former President of European Parliament: « The aim of the “Devine Performing Arts” to bring China’s classical five-millenia-old culture to a large public is an important contribution to intercultural dialogue and to make China’s rich culture better known in countries around the world. Art as the expression of identity gives a deeper and better understanding of cultures and civilisations and brings people from different cultures and historical backgrounds together in a peaceful dialogue which increases mutual understanding and respect. Therefore, I wish the Devine Performing Arts the best success in 2009. »
Mr. Dominguez, manager of a Swiss airline Speedwings based in Geneva. Speedwings is partner of Divine Performing Arts Foundation: « Tonight is the first time I have gotten to see this performance. I am really delighted, and I would even say completely amazed at what we have seen here tonight. You fully experience the show; you're in the show and they carry you away. They make you take off and really put you in a bubble where you have time to appreciate what is before you. I'd say it's a different experience, a show that raises awareness of human values. I'd say it's an experience that we must share with lots of people. »
Mrs Svetlana Romanova, who owns an art gallery in Geneva « I felt it from the movements, in the facial expressions of each artist, this divinity, this dignity. It's really magical. It touches you. It enters into the depths of your soul. It's absolutely different from other cultures. You know, it's such a clear message that makes you reflect on other values in life. The values of beauty and tenderness, external beauty, but mostly internal beauty. It's really very, very deep. »
Patrick Beyeler, Manager of international marketing of the Mont Blanc in Geneva: « Most of all, it takes an absolute commitment, and we were very, very seriously touched by the level of commitment that has been developed. It was magnificent. I came with some friends and colleagues and there are quite a few of us who remarked that there are scenes that give you goose bumps, literally. It was extremely gripping with extremely strong effects. The presentation of the music's magnificence and the decor was simply amazing. »
Rachel Kelita Hirsch, Presidente of the swiss company between China-Switzerland: « It is about spirituality with genuine values, morals; it is an universal spirituality. This people has values from its very remote history. »

David Hiler, Councillor of State and Minister of Finance for the canton of Geneva : « What a magnificent show, combining Chinese and Western music. The dances are a visual delight. The show expresses the beauty of the Chinese tradition, as does its message of Truth, Benevolence and Forbearance ».
Annette Hsiu-Lieu Lu, Vice-President of Taiwan : «Why have our most profound [human] qualities disappeared? We must truly promote morality, respect the Heavens, cherish the Earth, love all peoples and seek truth, goodness and beauty.” ... “Shen Yun is the finest of shows and I hope that you will appreciate it and that the best of Chinese culture will be passed around the world ».
Hans-Gert Pöttering, President of European Parliament : « A Spectacular of Chinese culture will take place in Europe and worldwide. What a great opportunity to bring together many people and for intercultural exchange. [...] ».


Michel Meyer, Assistant Director General of Radio France, Director of the France Bleu Network : « This Gala combines historic frescos, martial arts, dance and all these exquisite performances. I could describe it with words ranging from mysterious and perfect to remarkable ».
Barack Obama, United States Senator (feedback in 2007): « It is both an honor and a pleasure to have this opportunity to extend my warmest and heartfelt greetings to everyone attending the Chinese New year Spectacular in Chicago. This special occasion will undoubtedly create memories that last a lifetime. This grand occasion is not only a celebration of the New Year, but also a celebration of traditional Chinese culture. As each New Year symbolizes new hope, I sincerely hope that the Year of the Pig, year 4705, brings each of you good fortune and continued success throughout the year. Again, enjoy this special occasion as you prepare for a year of prosperity and success in your future endeavors ».
Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada : « I don’t doubt that the public will be enchanted by this exceptional display of colour and costume, by a brilliant choreography and remarkable musical composition ».




Yi Seok, the last prince still living on Korean soil, (is the grandson of Emperor Gojong and the nephew of his successor, Emperor Sunjong, Korea's last monarch): « The soloists’ songs repeatedly mentioned reincarnation; that left me with a very deep impression.I have a new feeling, a new sensation. It is very thrilling show. I am deeply moved. C’est un spectacle passionnant. J’ai été profondément touché. It is very rare to have opportunity to learn about Chinese culture. When the culture disappears, it is like the nation disappears. After watching the show, I feel the importance of restoring the culture of Korea and reviving the spirituality of the Korean people ».
Philippe Joye, former State Councillor of Geneva : « In Chevauchée on the Mongolian plains, the charisma and strength of the Mongolian men is expressed by their movements reminiscent of the horse rider. The Mongol who expresses himself by riding backwards like that calls forth memories, it’s worthy of Béjart, with a tremendous quality ».
Thierry Oulevay, President of the World Première Watch-making and co-creator of unique Jean Dunand watches (Geneva) : « It’s an extraordinary show, stunning. Very artistic and exquisite – a fine marriage of culture and art. The dance and the musical and spiritual elements also blend well together. I have never seen this type of refinement in a show before, it’s miraculous ».
Philippe von Escher, Director of the Golf and Country Club of Bonmont, Chéserex, near Geneva in Switzerland : « The spirituality of the artists of Shen Yun touches the heart. I work in a magical place – extremely beautiful. It’s a Cistercian monastery at the foot of the mount and in the heart of the country. All the buildings are of the period. It seems I have rediscovered a little of this magic in the show. Compared with a traditional ballet, the provision of Chinese culture and Buddhism in the dance gives an unreal impression that transports us to another world. The strictness, the precision which has made this show so strong, really gave me the impression of being elsewhere ».
Catherine Bourlet, visual and historical artist, specializing in Asian antiques (Geneva) : « A small instrument like a shell - the erhu - produces such elegant and gracious melodies that they penetrate the brain and one feels transported, whether or not one is familiar with Chinese culture ».
Richard Connema, critic of Talkin' Broadway in New York: « I probably have reviewed over three to four thousand shows since 1942. A lot of reviewers use stars, you know, 1 star, 2 stars, 3 stars, 4 stars, 5 stars… I will give this production 5 stars. That’s the top. The dancers were absolutely fantastic … I found out that there was not only dancing in this but heart. You could feel that coming even from where I was sitting … Just a beautiful production I found that those backdrop scenes and the way it was projected and the way it comes out is absolutely fantastic. I’ve never seen anything like that. I’ve seen enough Broadway shows that still cannot compare to what I saw tonight ».
Mme Guglielmi works for the World Health Organization, in economic and anthropological research : « I feel absolutely wonderful after having seen them! I find Chinese dance much more expressive than Western dance. I loved it all. The most unforgettable thing for me is that the Divine Performing Arts have used music and dance to interpret a theme and a story. I also loved the backcloth and the on-screen decor worked perfectly with the on-stage performances. For example, in one of the programmes, two celestial beings descended from the heavens and accompanied the woman who had been tortured to death by flying up into the sky. The backcloth and the dance went perfectly together without the least hitch. I love this form of expression. There were stories of Gods and Buddhas who inspired me to deep reflection on certain questions ».
Mme Stakian, solo violonist in the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Suisse Romande :« I was very moved by the perfection and the work which it represented. At the same time, there is something extremely elaborate carrying ideas that are simple. The whole show is really very moving; a great eternal truth integrated by means of this performance. The whole of this production, these costumes, colours and movements, to which I am extremely sensitive, in some way pay homage to such essence and values. It is a great fact of life that we have begun to forget. Our society imposes on us a certain form of materialism. This show, together with other things, allows accession to a superior aim. On this point, the Chinese have been, are and remain, very, very, strong [...] ».
Robert Hisland Hiestand, Director of l'Institut supérieur de musique in Geneva : « He brought along five Faculty members from his Institute to watch the show and to learn the traditional elements of Chinese music. Mr Hiestand is a specialist in Mongolian music and is currently President of the Swiss Mongolian Association. He said: “ One of my favourite pieces was “ a zest of chopsticks ”. I have worked on the research and protection of Mongolian music for years, and the music and rhythm of this piece is very dear to my heart. Despite having studied the music for such a long time, after seeing the show, I feel like a newborn baby, as I have just experienced a new realm of music. Rather unusual ».
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