HAMBURG, Germany — As the Divine Performing Arts Chinese Spectacular at Hamburg's Theatre at the Harbor concluded, Stephan Michaeli and his friend Sarah were two among many who were delighted with the unique cultural show.
"I thought the show was great, colorful, and very interesting. I really was happy that Sarah learned about Chinese culture, as she really doesn't know that much about it," said Michaeli, a sea captain.
Michaeli had not heard China's classical stories and knew very little about Chinese culture, "I liked to learn about China's legends…. It is different from other shows I have seen. I think I have to read some more about this."
The drum scenes were his favorites (Drummers of the Tang Court and Victory Drums), while Sarah preferred the scenes that depicted femininity.
"I liked the one with the water and the sea ['Nymphs of the Sea' and 'Water Sleeves']," she said.
They weren't aware that before the advent of communism to China the country had a rich 5,000-year culture.
"Also the Chinese people, like all people throughout the world forget their traditions and also their honor. The red communist regime in China is not good. But maybe you effect a force that brings changes during the coming years," said Sarah, a radio oncologist.
Both Michaeli and Sarah admired that the Divine Performing Arts did not shy away from being critical of China.
"We thought it was very brave to show the problems in China -- the policemen persecuting the three girls. This was the other side of China."
Michaeli was referring to Risen Lotus Flower, which portrays the persecution of three young women for their belief in the spiritual practice of Falun Gong. Set in modern-day China, the piece describes the ongoing persecution of this peaceful, meditative practice by the Chinese communist regime.
"I think these artists should continue with this effort. It is very important. I know that these artists are of Chinese background, but live in the USA. I don't think they can go back to China. It is very sad. But what they do is very brave, and a very good thing. It brings a very good message to everyone," said Michaeli.
Brigitte Lang, an English teacher from China, also attended Monday's show. Although she enjoyed the entire show, her favorites were the drum scenes and the dances.
"The dancers were very, very professional, perfect, great physic. Wonderful to watch them. And the choreography was perfect. I really enjoyed the show."
"I liked the medley," she said, adding that acts such as Risen Lotus Flower are "the only way to helping the Chinese people express internationally what is going on in China. I appreciate that you show this to the public, and in this country."
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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