Threats targeting performances of Shen Yun around the world, including in Vancouver and Toronto, are raising concerns about what the Falun Dafa Association of Canada calls “blatant” foreign interference by China.
The live stage production, known for its traditional dance and classical music, promotes a vision of China before communism.
“There was never a doubt in our minds that theatres in Canada were being pressured by the Chinese Communist Party to cancel Shen Yun,” said association spokesperson Joel Chipkar.
The show is put on by religious group Falun Gong, which has drawn the ire of Beijing.
Shortly before the touring production’s April 8 to 12 run at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, the venue received a bomb threat demanding the show be cancelled.
Vancouver police determined the threat was a hoax, and the performances went ahead.
The City of Vancouver, which runs the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, confirmed to CTV News that staff met with representatives from the Chinese Consulate last month and Shen Yun was discussed—but did not say in what capacity.
“Over the years, (Vancouver Civic Theatres) has engaged with many organizations, individuals, consulates and community groups expressing differing perspectives on event content,” a city spokesperson wrote in a statement.
“VCT does not censor or limit lawful freedom of expression within its venues.”
Earlier in April, shows at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto were cancelled after organizers received threats.
“We’ve had over 150 different bomb threats in theatres around the world where Shen Yun performs,” Chipkar told CTV News.
Incidents reported internationally include one at New York’s John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in February 2025.
More recently, Australia’s prime minister was evacuated from his residence in Canberra after a bomb threat was received.
Investigators have described many of the threats as similar in nature and language, and say some have been traced back to China.
The Falun Dafa Association of Canada is urging Ottawa to publicly condemn Beijing’s actions.
“This is kind of like a testing ground for the Communist Party. If they can silence artistic institutions in Canada, then they can do anything they want to anyone whenever they want,” Chipkar said.
