The Toronto run of a classical Chinese dance and music show that was recently pulled amid security concerns is back on.
Four performances of Shen Yun will be held at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts between June 26 and June 28.
‘Comprehensive security measures’
The venue confirmed to CP24 on Wednesday that the replacement Shen Yun performances are a go and that there will be “comprehensive security measures” in place.
“We are focused above all on maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone in our venue, and we are confident in the comprehensive security measures now in place, which have significantly strengthened our ability to proceed safely,” the Four Seasons for the Performing Arts said.
“These measures will continue for Shen Yun’s June engagement, allowing us to be well prepared for a smooth and secure run of performances.”
The Falun Dafa Association of Toronto (FDAT), the show’s presenter, said the enhanced security measures planned for the June shows include installing metal detector gates, K-9 service and on-site police patrols.
“(The shows) will proceed with the necessary operational arrangements in place to support a successful return,” the non-profit organization said in a release.
Previous shows cancelled amid unfounded bomb threats
On March 29, the theatre cancelled that afternoon’s performance of Shen Yun following what turned out to be an unfounded bomb threat.
At the time, the Four Seasons Centre said it would “enhance security measures and conduct K-9 sweeps in advance of every show to ensure everyone’s safety and no further disruptions.”
Two days later, the venue called off the company’s five remaining performances, which were set for April 1 to 5.
- READ MORE: ‘Escalating threats:’ Toronto’s Four Seasons Centre cancels 5 remaining Shen Yun performances
“This action was taken out of an abundance of caution, following the receipt of an escalating series of threatening messages that were swiftly reported to Toronto Police Service,” the Four Seasons Centre said in a written statement at the time.
In the end, all of the bomb threats received against the Four Seasons Centre turned out to be not credible.
The Falun Dafa Association of Toronto added that any threats made against Shen Yun worldwide have been deemed unfounded.
Presenter says threats from Chinese government
The show’s presenter has previously attributed the threats to “Beijing’s systematic global campaign to stop Shen Yun - a show that presents the beauty of ‘China before communism’ and brings light to modern day human rights abuses happening in China.”
Many Shen Yun performers practice Falun Gong, which the company describes on its website as a “peaceful meditation exercise” that has been persecuted by communist China since 1999.
“We condemn the (Chinese Communist Party) for its continued threats to Canadians and our institutions and urge the theater to stand with artists and reverse its decision,” a FDAT spokesperson previously said.
“Cancelling the show under such circumstances sets a concerning precedent that foreign actors can disrupt Canadian business operation and society at will. We remain committed to finding a path forward with Four Seasons so Toronto audiences can experience Shen Yun as intended.”
