(Minghui.org) Prior to Shen Yun’s performances at the Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, Virginia, on April 22 and 23, 2026, the performing arts company received recognition from federal, state, and city level elected officials.

Congressman Congratulates Shen Yun

Letter from Congressman James Walkinshaw congratulating Shen Yun on the company’s 20th anniversary.

Congressman James Walkinshaw wrote: “Please accept my warmest congratulations on the 20th anniversary of Shen Yun Performing Arts and the commencement of another global tour, where your art will once again be shared with audiences around the world.

“Performing arts play a vital role in enriching our communities, strengthening cultural understanding, and bringing people together despite perceived differences. Live performances offer audiences the opportunity to learn, reflect and engage with one another in meaningful ways that extend beyond the stage. The tireless work of Shen Yun demonstrates the value of performing arts in fostering connection and cultural exchange.

“As Shen Yun celebrates two decades of artistic work, I commend the dedication required to sustain large-scale performances and to engage audiences year after year. Reaching millions worldwide is no small achievement and reflects the enduring public interest in live performance.

“Please accept my best wishes for a successful world tour and continued growth in the years ahead. I wish you every success as you continue contributing to the global performing arts community.”

House of Delegates Passes House Resolution No. 36

Delegate Delores L. McQuinn and House Resolution No. 36 of the Commonwealth of Virginia General Assembly–House of Delegates

The Virginia House of Delegates passed House Resolution No. 36, “Commending Shen Yun Performing Arts.” The House Patron for this Resolution was Delegate Delores L. McQuinn. She enjoyed seeing Shen Yun before and plans to watch Shen Yun again with her two granddaughters in Norfolk.

House Resolution No. 36 reads:

“RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Shen Yun Performing Arts hereby be commended on the occasion of its 20th anniversary; and, be it

“RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to representatives of Shen Yun Performing Arts as an expression of the House of Delegates’ admiration for the company’s contributions to the Commonwealth and best wishes for its continued success.”

Recognition from State Legislators

L. Louise Lucas, President Pro Tempore of the Senate of Virginia, and her letter

L. Louise Lucas, President Pro Tempore of the Senate of Virginia, wrote in a letter to Shen Yun:

“On behalf of myself and the Senate of Virginia, I extend my sincerest congratulations to the entire Shen Yun Performing Arts family. May you continue to educate, enrich, and inspire audiences across the globe for many years to come.”

Recognition from Virginia Senator J. D. “Danny” Diggs

Virginia Senator J. D. “Danny” Diggs wrote in a recognition:

“WHEREAS, Shen Yun artists have demonstrated courage, strength, and steadfastness in the face of harassment, vandalism, and threats of violence that have attempted to intimidate them and prevent them from performing; now, therefore, be it

“KNOWN that Senator J. D. ‘Danny’ Diggs hereby expresses his sincere gratitude and appreciation of the works and performances of Shen Yun Performing Arts and further recognizes each member of the troupe’s members as outstanding ambassadors of Chinese culture.”

Anne Ferrell Tata, member of Virginia House of Delegates, and her letter

Delegate Anne Ferrell Tata wrote in her letter:

“By showcasing the universal themes of courage, compassion, and virtue, you offer a performance that transcends language and connects with audiences of all ages. The mastery displayed by your dancers and musicians is a testament to the discipline and excellence we strive for in the Commonwealth. We are proud that you have once again chosen to share your world-class production with the people of Hampton Roads. Your presence here strengthens our local arts community and provides a vibrant cultural experience for families throughout the region.

“Please accept my best wishes for a spectacular series of performances. May your time in Virginia be rewarding, and may you continue to inspire audiences around the globe with your breathtaking artistry.”

Mayors of Three Cities Issue Proclamations

Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer, Mayor of Virginia Beach, and his proclamation

Mayor Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer of Virginia Beach wrote in his proclamation:

“Whereas: there has been an overwhelming and positive response to Shen Yun Performing Arts around the world in its presentation of traditional Chinese culture as it was meant to be: a study in grace, fluidity, inner strength, and positive virtue; and

“Whereas: Shen Yun artists have demonstrated courage, strength, and steadfastness in the face of harassment, vandalism, and threats of violence that have attempted to intimidate them and prevent them from performing.

“Now, Therefore I, Robert M. ‘Bobby’ Dyer, Mayor of the City of Virginia Beach, Virginia, do hereby proclaim:

“In Virginia Beach, I call upon all citizens of the City of Virginia Beach to join us on this unique experience and celebrate Shen Yun performing Arts Day.”

Mayor of Chesapeake Issues Proclamation for Shen Yun Performing Arts

Dr. Richard W. West, Mayor of Chesapeake, and his proclamation

Mayor of Chesapeake, Dr. Richard W. West, wrote in his proclamation:

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, Dr. Richard W. West, Mayor of the City of Chesapeake, Virginia, do hereby recognize and celebrate Shen Yun Performing Arts on the occasion of its 20th Anniversary Tour, and commend its unwavering commitment to cultural renewal, artistic excellence, and the universal message of hope, virtue, and resilience that continues to inspire audiences around the world.”

Kenneth Cooper Alexander, Mayor of Norfolk, and his proclamation

Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander of Norfolk wrote in his proclamation:

“WHEREAS, the performance provides a rare window into the beauty of traditional Chinese culture, celebrating universal values such as compassion, courage, and freedom, principles that resonate deeply with the spirit and character of the Norfolk community; and

“WHEREAS, the presence of Shen Yun in Norfolk highlights the city’s growing reputation as a hub for international cultural exchange and world-class performing arts;

“NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, THAT I, KENNETH COOPER ALEXANDER, Mayor of the City of Norfolk, do hereby recognize this occasion as a moment of cultural significance, and sincere appreciation extended to the Falun Dafa Association of Washington, D.C., for, once again, bringing this extraordinary production to our city and enriching the cultural life of all who call Norfolk, and the greater Hampton Roads region, home.”