Shen Yun Voices
We are artists, students, friends, family, and theatre patrons who all share one thing in common -- our lives have been touched by Shen Yun Performing Arts, the world's premier classical Chinese dance company. Over the past 17 years, Shen Yun's popularity has skyrocketed, becoming a household name in many parts of the world. Yet few understand how this unique American company operates nor what it is like to participate in its performances. As a community, we have come together to offer our personal experiences and insights on what life is like working with Shen Yun Performing Arts.
Shen Yun Voices
"China Can Be Free," Shen Yun's Role - Prof. Zhang Tianliang
Today we have the pleasure of chatting with Professor Zhang Tianliang of Fei Tian College in New York. He’s a prolific author, lecturer, and television commentator who mixes a keen eye for world politics with in-depth knowledge of traditional Chinese culture. He talks about his personal journey from China, heartrending moments, and his hope for China’s future.
Hosted by Leeshai Lemish, Shen Yun MC.
This conversation has been edited for brevity.
Links:
Prof. Zhang’s book: The Essence of Chinese Civilization
Life at Fei Tian College, Where Shen Yun’s Future Stars Train
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:50 Path to Fei Tian
2:45 Back in Beijing
4:50 His experience under persecution
6:00 Why he started practicing Falun Gong
9:00 Going to Zhongnanhai April 25th
14:40 CCP propaganda blitz
19:00 Family jailed
21:50 Saying goodbye
24:00 Final talk between father and daughter
28:00 Why the persecution?
33:10 Deciding to become a teacher
35:00 What is Fei Tian?
38:11 The highest compliment
39:45 Biggest challenge
41:00 Biggest dream