Shen Yun Demands Investigation into Bomb Threat at Kennedy Center

(DailyChive.com) – Shen Yun Performing Arts demands an in-depth investigation after a bomb threat disrupted their opening night at the Kennedy Center.

At a Glance

A bomb threat targeted Shen Yun at the Kennedy Center, leading to evacuation and road closures.
No explosives were found, and performances are set to continue as planned.
Shen Yun blames the Chinese Communist Party for ongoing intimidation.
Authorities are investigating the threat’s origin with increased security measures.

Shen Yun Opening Night Disrupted

The prestigious Kennedy Center faced an unexpected disruption when a bomb threat was received as Shen Yun Performing Arts prepared to take the stage. This threat prompted an immediate evacuation of the building and surrounding road closures by U.S. Park Police. Security teams later gave an all-clear, assuring the public that no explosives were discovered, which allows Shen Yun to continue their planned performances.

The bomb threat is one of several incidents experienced by Shen Yun, often attributed to their portrayal of pre-communist China. The group’s association with the Falun Gong religious movement suggests the Chinese Communist Party’s possible involvement in an effort to hinder their influence. Shen Yun rents the theater at the Kennedy Center annually, and this occasion was no exception in terms of controversy.

Emcee Leeshai Lemish speaks from the Kennedy Center after evacuation due to a fake bomb threat at our performance in Washington, D.C. pic.twitter.com/JwpQUG9km9

— Shen Yun (@ShenYun) February 20, 2025

Security and Responses

In accordance with established protocols, security personnel acted promptly. “Security acted swiftly, following existing protocols,” stated a representative from the Kennedy Center. Roadways such as Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway and Virginia Avenue were temporarily closed but have since reopened, restoring normal traffic flow.

The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed the bomb threat, with their Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit supporting the U.S. Park Police in the investigation. Shen Yun emphasized the importance of a comprehensive investigation to uncover those responsible for these threats that aim to undermine their performances.

A bomb threat at the Kennedy Center prompted an evacuation and road closures Thursday afternoon, but security has since given the all-clear, and performances will proceed as scheduled, according to a center spokesperson. https://t.co/ltZPOTc6GH

— LiveNOW from FOX (@livenowfox) February 21, 2025

Ongoing Intimidation Concerns

Over the past year, Shen Yun has been the target of threatening emails, many written in Chinese, indicative of a larger campaign to intimidate the troupe. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP), known historically for pressuring venues to cancel Shen Yun shows, has been mentioned as a potential orchestrator of these provocations. Families of the performers face harassment in China, and U.S. lawmakers have been targeted to discourage attendance.

Despite the adversities Shen Yun faces, the company remains committed to its mission and continues to perform internationally, expressing a steadfast ambition to one day bring their show to China—an aspiration yet to be realized amid ongoing pressures.