What Is Falun Dafa?

This is one of the most common questions we get. Falun Dafa is also known as Falun Gong. Both China and the West have a history of artists integrating spirituality into their work. Today, Shen Yun’s artists follow this tradition, drawing inspiration from the spiritual discipline of Falun Dafa.

This practice combines ancient teachings with meditation exercises. It centers on three core principles: truthfulness, compassion, tolerance. Its principal text is Zhuan Falun, which sometimes makes appearances in the performance.

Practicing Falun Dafa is more than just meditation, it’s a state of mind that guides daily life, oriented toward self-betterment, taking responsibility, and putting others first.

You may have heard that Falun Dafa practitioners are persecuted in China today. This started in 1999, when tens of millions of people practiced Falun Dafa meditation in parks throughout China. Fearful of its popularity as an independent ideology outside its control, the Communist Party launched a nationwide persecution campaign trying to wipe it out. Still, 18 years of torture, imprisonment, and mass murder later, these spiritual-seekers persevere in their faith and continue to resist through nonviolence.

Inspired, Shen Yun’s artistic team is bringing these stories to stages around the world. It turns out that these people’s courage and message of hope has moved Shen Yun’s performers and audience members alike.