GENEVA—The Divine Performing Arts Geneva premiere of the Chinese Spectacular in Theatre du Léman was a great success. The audience responded to the two-hour performance with cheers and thundering applause, bringing the entire troupe of beaming performers back for multiple curtain calls.
David Hiler, deputy chief executive of the Canton of Geneva and financial director of Geneva, said after the show: "This is a beautiful performance. It calms and relaxes people. The music is beautiful. It is surprising that it combines both Chinese and Western music, but it sounds so beautiful. The dances are perfect. The choreography is so graceful. It is a feast for the eyes."
Regarding the references to ancient Chinese culture in the show, he said, "I found something quite interesting. All the programs share something in common. Whether it is a dance or vocal program, it carries meanings of Chinese traditions while encompassing characteristics from other people as well. It expressed a traditional beauty, and that is truth, compassion, and tolerance."
Mr. Hiler used to be a historian and history teacher, and has an extensive knowledge and understanding of world history. Former state councilor of the Canton of Geneva and a member of the Green Party, Mr. Hiler has been paying close attention to human rights conditions around the world.
He said that he is fully aware of the persecution of Falun Gong in China represented in the dance "The Risen Lotus Flower."
"I have a full understanding of Falun Gong," Mr. Hiler said. "I have some friends in Geneva who follow the principles of truth, compassion, and tolerance in their cultivation practice. One of them poked many little holes in my body [acupuncture], so I understand them very well. There is nothing shocking about the show."
Mr. Hiler did not hide his delight at the Divine Performing Arts performance.
"I love the two drumming programs ["Drummers of the Tang Court" and "Victory Drums"] and I like the "Mongolian Bowl Dance." The dances are spectacularly beautiful. It is most amazing that they can manipulate their body movements while coordinating with each other so perfectly. Of course it all contributed to the virtues that the Chinese people are proud of," said Mr. Hiler.
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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