Local hosts of a renowned Chinese dance troupe that has performed in Alberta since 2007 say they are extremely disappointed in the provincial culture ministry after it denied a request to remove a safety net.

And Jenny Yang with Calgary’s Falun Dafa Association suggested Thursday that some members have speculated there may be more than meets the eye when it comes to the province’s decision, questioning whether the group is paying the price for complaining about alleged staff misconduct at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

"Basically, we have found the ministry and theatre just have no interest — or willingness — solve our concerns," Yang said.

Performances by the Shen Yun Performing Arts Group were suspended after Falun Dafa went to the media with concerns regarding a lack of respect from Jubilee staff. The group alleged, in one incident, staff members walked into a makeshift change room while some performers were changing.

Culture Minister Heather Klimchuk then issued a statement barring Shen Yun from performing in both the local Jubilee and a similar venue in Edmonton.

After that, the minister had a change of heart and agreed to meet with Falun Dafa to discuss concerns; however a new sticking point emerged, as Shen Yun complained a safety net installed at the Jubilee inhibited their performance.

A letter addressed to Falun Dafa from Klimchuk that was provided to Metro Thursday indicates the province is unwilling to budge on the net dispute.

"I am extremely proud of the high safety standards of the auditoria, and reiterate that the safety nets will be in use for all performances where the orchestra pit is below seating level," Kilmchuk wrote.