Former Shen Yun performer alleges exploitation and abuse behind the scenes

A former Shen Yun performer has accused the global dance troupe of exploitative labour practices, likening its business model to “human trafficking.”

The anonymous whistleblower, who spent seven years with the organisation, told legacy media dancers were subjected to grueling schedules with little pay, had their passports confiscated, and were denied medical care.

He described the training regime as grueling and felt “tortured” by the lack of public holidays and irregular pay, sometimes receiving only $100 to $500 a month. He also claimed that performers were publicly belittled for minor mistakes.

Shen Yun, closely linked to the Falun Gong religious movement, has denied the allegations, attributing them to a smear campaign by the Chinese Communist Party.

However, reports from The New York Times and ongoing labour investigations in New York suggest wider concerns about the treatment of performers, including emotional abuse and possible visa fraud.

While Shen Yun maintains that dancers voluntarily commit to a rigorous lifestyle and receive scholarships or salaries, critics argue that behind the spectacle of the performances lies a restrictive and controlling environment.