PHILADELPHIA—The Westphal family of five love the world of art and so when Shen Yun Performing Arts arrived at the Merriam Theater in Philadelphia, they were excited to attend. “I think it’s a wonderful performance and there is a lot of energy. [The dancers] are fantastic, the choreography is great, [and] the colors are awesome,” said Michael Westphal, a production manager. The pandemic has affected the way many people live their lives, and Shen Yun is an opportunity for a realignment of perceptions. “It is good to come out and see [Shen Yun]—get out and see the fresh air, be with people again. I’m having a good time,” he said. Shen Yun is reviving traditional Chinese culture as it was in the pre-communist era. Authentic classical Chinese dance, ethnic and folk dances, and traditional music relay the cherished stories and history of China’s glorious, 5,000-year-old civilization. To the delight of …