PARIS — Mario Bettati is a renowned legal figure, widely considered in France as an inspiration to current Minister of Foreign Affairs Bernard Kouchner. He has also been his closest adviser for years.
During the intermission of the Shen Yun Chinese Spectacular at the Palais des Congres in Paris on Saturday, Mr. Bettati shared his thoughts on the show.
"The music reminded me of Broadway," he said, adding that he was "favorably impressed by the costumes and the mix of dance and acrobatics."
A law professor at Université Paris II, Bettati was also vice president of the National Consultative Commission on Human Rights (CNCDH) from 1996 to 2002.
He is one of the pioneers who brought forward the concept of humanitarian intervention, thus taking part in the first steps toward the development of international humanitarian law.
Bettati said he wasn't sure he fully understood the deeper meanings in the Spectacular since he lacked knowledge about Chinese symbolism and mythology. However, he was impressed with the show.
"It's a show that is enjoyable and well-done. And it's well-thought out in addressing the subject of human rights."
Sylvette Desmeuzes-Balland, who attended the Spectacular with Bettati, said she appreciated in particular the male choreography, which was "expressive and rigorous, gymnastically impressive."
She added that she wouldn't forget the piece about General Yue Fei's departure for the army in the 12th century. Yue Fei was a famous warrior during the Southern Song Dynasty, known for his heroic feats.
Desmeuzes-Balland is the author of many books on childhood. She recently wrote a book about marginalization titled, "Salauds de Pauvres! Une Histoire D'amour."
For information about upcoming Divine Performing Arts shows, please visit: www.DivinePerformingArts.org.
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of the Chinese Spectacular. For our complete coverage please visit: http://en.epochtimes.com/features/dpa2008/
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