Maine Officials Warmly Welcome Shen Yun's Portland Debut (Photos)

(Clearwisdom.net) Officials from the state of Maine welcomed New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts to Portland with letters of greeting and appreciation. Shen Yun has been touring the world with shows in over 60 cities, and this weekend--Sept. 19 and 20 at Portland's Merrill Auditorium--is the first time the classical Chinese dance and music company has performed in Maine.

Portland Mayor Jill Duson wrote in her letter of welcome: "This outstanding presentation of traditional Chinese dance and music creates an opportunity to both enhance and enrich the diverse cultural life of our community.

Portland Mayor Jill Duson wrote a letter of welcome to Shen Yun.

"Portland is Maine's largest city, and for generations has been a welcoming community to people of many cultures. It is proud of its historic past and seeks to build a progressive and prosperous future for all its citizens."

U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe said, "Maine has such a rich and longstanding tradition of welcoming magnificent cultural performances--and indeed, what a wonderful occasion it is to host this talented dance and music company!"

U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe

U.S. Congressman Michael Michaud, in his greeting, said, "Shen Yun Performing Arts has been seen at the best international stages, and it is an honor to now have them perform here in Maine. This performance goes beyond simple entertainment to show us a celebration of human dignity, virtue and spirit through Chinese classical dance and music." He called Shen Yun "one of the most comprehensive and inspiring Chinese culture shows in the world, and a reminder of the long tradition of Chinese fine art."

U.S. Congressman Michael Michaud

Congressman Michaud emphasized that "the importance of art for our culture cannot be overstated." He said, "The Shen Yun Performing Arts show is a testimony to the lasting power of the arts; specifically of the resiliency and power of traditional Chinese dance, which came so close to disappearing forever."

Maine's leaders appreciated that Shen Yun Performing Arts consists of world-class dancers and choreographers, vocalists and musicians, composers, and visual artists. The company draws on ancient legends and artistic legacies in its mission to revive the culture and traditions of China's centuries-old civilization, which were suppressed during the Cultural Revolution.

U.S. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree

U.S. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree said, "Through this authentic presentation of classical Chinese music and dance, Shen Yun Performing Arts is keeping ancient myths and legends alive for the people of the future."

In his welcome letter, Governor John Baldacci congratulates Shen Yun on its many performances worldwide and says, "This is a unique opportunity for the citizens of Maine to experience a taste of the 5,000 year old traditional Chinese culture."

In his welcome letter, Governor John Baldacci congratulates Shen Yun.

The governor extols Maine as being a "beautiful and unique part of the United States," and Mother Nature seemed to echo this sentiment on Saturday, welcoming the unique Shen Yun with clear skies and brilliant sun--the beginning of a perfect New England fall weekend!