Shen Yun Performing Arts gave its final performance in Miami, Florida, on Feb. 25.
Watching in the audience was Katherine Pena, the winner of multiple beauty pageants. She loved the beauty and impact of traditional Chinese culture that Shen Yun showed on stage.
“I love the elegance of the women. That’s also very impactful, the softness. And I think that’s also a message that you can be soft and make a difference,” she said. “The arts are something that speak within my soul, I think that you can move mountains with the arts. It’s very sad but I hope and I pray that one day that can happen. That China can see this amazing show because you’re changing the whole world with it. And I’m honored, it’s bittersweet if I’m being honest.”
Shen Yun’s orchestra combines both traditional Chinese instruments and Western instruments.
Katherine Pena explained that the music struck a chord with her.
“It was exquisite. I could hear it throughout and that was beautiful. That piqued a certain emotion within me that is not used in certain compositions and certain symphonies. I thought it was beautifully done.”
Ms. Pena is a model and singer who has won multiple beauty pageants. She took the titles of Miss Global U.S. 2019, Miss United Continents Florida 2016, and Miss Mundo Latina USA 2015. She said the beauty she found in Shen Yun’s revival of ancient Chinese culture deeply resonated with her. Ancient Chinese people believed their culture was inspired by the divine.
“They’re speaking of the divine, of what we’re here for. It’s amazing that you’re doing that through the arts. I’m honored, we’re all honored to be here,” she said. “Spirituality is very important to me. It spoke to me, even just the beginning that we’re all here for a mission, to work for the Creator. Everything, even the dance moves just align so well with the message.”
She expressed deep admiration for Shen Yun’s artistic director and believes that Shen Yun is changing the world. She hopes that one day, people in China will be able to enjoy Shen Yun.
“Keep shining bright. Keep using that mind and that heart and keep making an impact with the colors through the pieces that you choose. I know the Divine is speaking to you through these pieces that you’re choosing, because you’re changing our world. You changed my world. Keep shining bright and keep dancing and keep directing. You’re changing the world, thank you,” said Ms. Pena. “Bring some tissues, wear your best dress or suit, and come to be inspired with an open mind. And let go of ego and come change the world with Shen Yun.”
Shen Yun will be performing at the Stifel Theatre in St. Louis, Missouri, on March 2 and 3.
NTD News, Miami, Florida
