Shen Yun: A Global Celebration of Performing Arts in 2023

Shen Yun, a performing arts company based in New York, showcases traditional Chinese culture as it existed before communism. The New York Times published an article featuring interviews with 25 former artists, who expressed their frustrations and hardships during their time with the company. This group represents only 2.5 percent of Shen Yun's workforce, which is consistent with industry averages for layoffs in the arts sector. The article has been criticized for painting a negative picture of the company, suggesting that the experiences of a small percentage of employees do not reflect the overall environment. The training regimen for Shen Yun performers is likened to 'SEAL training' due to its demanding nature, which is designed to build endurance and prepare them for global performances. The article's portrayal of the company has raised questions about the fairness of focusing on negative experiences while similar practices in other fields, such as gymnastics and ballet, are often accepted without scrutiny. The comparison highlights a potential bias in how the media reports on different performing arts. Critics argue that the New York Times could have explored a broader range of experiences within Shen Yun, rather than focusing solely on the negative accounts. The article's emphasis on emotional abuse allegations raises concerns about the selective reporting of workplace issues, which could be found in many organizations. This selective focus may lead to an incomplete understanding of the company's culture and the experiences of its performers. In conclusion, while it is important to acknowledge and address any negative workplace environments, the portrayal of Shen Yun in the New York Times may not accurately represent the experiences of the majority of its performers. The company continues to celebrate and promote traditional Chinese culture through its performances worldwide.