The Falun Dafa Association of Ottawa has initiated legal proceedings against the National Arts Centre (NAC) following the venue’s abrupt suspension of Shen Yun performances after nearly 20 years. This move comes in response to the NAC’s decision to deny the company performance space for the year 2026 and beyond, an action the association claims was taken without proper engagement or justification.
Background of the Dispute
Shen Yun, a prominent performing arts company based in New York, is closely linked to the Falun Gong movement, which advocates for spiritual practices rooted in ancient Chinese traditions while opposing the Chinese Communist Party. The NAC has hosted Shen Yun for 18 consecutive years, making its recent decision to cease future collaborations particularly contentious.
In a judicial review application submitted to the Federal Court, the Falun Dafa Association contends that the NAC has acted improperly by failing to consult with them regarding the scheduling of shows. They are seeking a court order that would compel the NAC to produce documentation related to its decision-making process, including any records of discussions held between NAC officials and representatives from the Chinese government in Canada. The association is eager to ascertain whether these discussions had any bearing on the NAC’s decision.
Allegations of Mismanagement
The court filing alleges that a senior NAC official publicly stated in a 2025 meeting that the centre would not entertain a request from a Chinese official to prevent Shen Yun from performing. This assertion is further complicated by the NAC president’s remarks regarding concerns over the working conditions of Shen Yun performers, referencing an inquiry from the New York State Department of Labour.
In a 2024 report, The New York Times raised serious allegations against Shen Yun, including claims that performers were discouraged from seeking medical assistance and faced exhausting schedules, alongside emotional manipulation and abuse. Shen Yun and the Falun Gong movement have vehemently denied these accusations, claiming the dancers’ reports of mistreatment were exaggerated and accusing the newspaper of aligning with the Chinese government’s narrative.
The Falun Dafa Association’s filing indicates that the NAC had previously expressed concern over the allegations of mistreatment, requesting information on protective measures for performers. The association asserts that it complied with these demands.
The Fallout from the NAC’s Decision
In September 2025, the Falun Dafa Association was informed by the NAC that Shen Yun would not be included in the 2026 performance schedule or any future programming. The NAC attributed its decision to “business reasons” and stated that interactions with foreign embassy representatives are commonplace in the arts sector. This rationale has not been well received by the association, which sees it as a dismissive approach to a long-standing partnership.
Other Canadian venues have followed suit; notable locations, such as Montreal’s Place des Arts, have also opted not to host Shen Yun performances, reflecting a growing trend of distancing from the company.
Despite these challenges, Shen Yun has announced plans for performances in several Canadian cities, including Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver, scheduled for 2027.
Why it Matters
This legal battle is not just about a performance space; it encapsulates broader issues of artistic freedom, the influence of international politics on cultural expression, and the struggles faced by minority groups in advocating for their rights. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how arts organisations navigate relationships with both domestic and foreign entities, as well as the extent to which cultural venues remain committed to hosting diverse artistic expressions amidst external pressures. As the case unfolds, it will undoubtedly resonate beyond the walls of the National Arts Centre, prompting critical discussions about the intersection of art, politics, and human rights in today’s global landscape.
