(Clearwisdom.net) An inspiring message came through at the Shen Yun Performing Arts 2009 World Tour performance in Sydney, held at the palatial Parade Theatre, which is associated with the National Institute of Dramatic Arts, [NIDA].

Member of the Legislative Council, The Hon. Marie Ann Ficarra

Member of the Legislative Council, The Hon. Marie Ann Ficarra, said Shen Yun delivers "a very solid, positive message."

Ms. Ficarra said Shen Yun's message of goodness is not seen enough in today's world. "It's a new show, but the message is still a very solid, positive message about the values we should carry in our lives for each other, respect for human dignity, and particularly for nature, for God's gifts to this world," Ms. Ficarra said.

"In particular it brings you back to the basics of why we are on this planet, what we should believe in and what we should emulate in our lives: goodness to one another. I think it's a lovely positive message, one that we don't see or hear often enough. Displaying it in song and dance really brings it home in a format that is very entertaining. So I've enjoyed it very much."

She said Shen Yun delivers what would be for many a "different" perception of Chinese culture and civilization. "I think more people around the world have not really experienced the fundamentals of Chinese civilization, so I think this is going to be different for many people to see the beauty and gentle harmony and life and nature and respect for one another. For people that have not experienced these old traditions of China, it's very good, especially for young people to be introduced to it. I've been to China twice, and it's good to see these old historical phases of Chinese civilization being revisited."

Ms. Ficarra said the various dances such as the Tibetan piece "Dance of the Snow-Capped Mountain" displayed the diversity of China. "The costumes, types of dancing, and types of movements are very relevant to the regions in China, of which there are so many. But even though there are so many regions, the basic principles of Chinese civilization, of human civilization remain the same. We can value each other's diversity, value the solid belief that underpins our lives, regardless of whether we're in China or a country like Australia, it's the same message of human dignity and respect and compassion."

Council Member thought the show was spectacular

Particularly touched was Warringah council member Vincent De Luca, OAM, who attended the show. He said that he had spent a lovely evening immersed in the show with family and friends.

Warringah council member Vincent De Luca, OAM

The councilor was moved by the story, "Heaven Awaits Us Despite Persecution," in which a father is persecuted to death for his belief in Falun Gong, the ancient spiritual practice banned today in China.

"I think definitely the principles of always [standing] for what you believe in--that is always the right thing to do. From a historical perspective, I think it's very good to reflect on those sorts of philosophical beliefs which guide society, very important and very educational to us as Australians, and also to all in Australia and our diverse country that we live in."

Mr. De Luca said, "This is definitely contributing to a tolerant society in Australia, and a greater understanding of the fundamental beliefs of others and an understanding of what others have had to endure over the years to get where they have."

"It's a wonderful event and it's great to be here, I'm very honored ... it's a great experience. It's my first experience here, but it's nothing but impressive. Inspired? Very much so."

Mr. De Luca would "highly recommend" the show and encourage everyone to come and see it. "The costumes, the ability of those on stage is far superior to what I've seen in the past, or of other events that I've been to. Those performing tonight should be very proud of themselves."

Source: http://theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/15864/
http://theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/15869/