Farima Dance

Nowruz Artisan Fair
2025-03-09 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Campbell Community Center, 1 W. Campbell Ave, Campbell, CA, 95008, United States
Persian new year, Nowruz, is upon us. Come immerse yourself in an event that brings you exceptional, unique Persian handcrafts and arts arts, music, jewelry, eatable treasures, fun for the family, and so much more. Bring everyone and stroll through while supporting over 30 unique local artisans, take family photos, and make crafts.
Come visit with Dr. Farima and the Simorgh Dance Collective as they offer their Silk Road Bazaar with new or used Persian and Silk Road ethnic costumes, jewelry, and accessories. Browse or buy from our collection and help support the Simorgh Dance Collective. Linger to watch Persian dance performances by the Simorgh Dance Collective.
♥️A Portion of the proceeds will be donated to International Rescue Committee in their efforts to assist displaced local families.
Event is located in Building F of the Campbell Community Center.

Sacred Circle
2025-03-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Google Huddle, 2000 N Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, 94043, United States
Join Dr. Farima Berenji for an intimate sacred circle gathering with poetry, meditation, and sacred circle dances. Space is limited, be sure to arrive early or RSVP in advance. Part of the Google Wellness Wednesday series.
Register

Gilead Sciences Norouz Celebration
2025-03-12 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Gilead Sciences, 333 Lakeside Dr., Foster City, 94404, United States
Company Norouz Celebration

Norouz Online Celebration
2025-03-15 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
Join us for an afternoon celebrating Norouz, the coming of Spring!
Norouz is the traditional spring and new year celebration of the Persian and Central Asian people. Norouz means “New Day” and it falls on the March equinox, the first day of spring. Families on Norouz gather together and wait for the exact time it is declared, exchange gifts and eat a feast of traditional food. It’s a time to celebrate ancestry and family. Norouz has been celebrated by people from diverse ethnic communities and religious backgrounds for thousands of years.
Hosted by Dr. Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective, activities for our online gathering will include:

Traditional performances of sacred, classical, and folkloric dances of the Silk Road
Traditional Persian music
Story telling and lectures of Norouz and rituals across the Silk Road
Poetry reading

All are welcome! Please register in advance to obtain a link to the online presentation.
Register
Please consider making a donation at http://donate.farimadance.com to support our artists below
Simorgh Dance Collective
Simorgh Dance Collective The Simorgh Dance Collective is a world community of artists devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional, classical, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road. The Collective currently has member companies and artist affiliations in Alaska, British Columbia, Turkey, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Read more..
Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Farima Berenji is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, instructor, choreographer, and dance ethnologist. A master instructor and performer in Persian and Sufi dance, she specializes in ancient, sacred, classical, and folkloric dances of Persia and Central Asia. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to record, research, lecture, perform, educate, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more..

Moroccan Gala Event
2025-03-15 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Gilroy, Gilroy, CA, United States
More details coming…

Roya Foundation Nowruz Bazaar 2025
2025-03-16 11:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Ramon Community Center, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon, CA, 94583, United States
The Roya Foundation Nowruz Bazaar includes a taste of Nowruz food, culture, pastries, cookies and includes sales of Haft-seen items. Come to watch performances by the Simorgh Dance Collective.
Roya Foundation
Providing Humanitarian, Educational Assistance, Health Care, and Medical Aid Globally
The Roya Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides humanitarian, educational assistance, and medical aid to disadvantaged children. Provide aid in the expansion of schools, orphanages, and hospitals towards the betterment of the lives of children globally. Their mission is to help provide the children with a well-equipped, safe, and nurturing educational environment enabling them to thrive as healthy and productive adults. Read more…

Spring Celebration of Life
2025-03-20 09:30 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Theater, Montalvo Arts Center, 15400 Montalvo Rd., Saratoga, California, 95070, United States
Mosaic America curates a multidisciplinary Spring Celebration of Life from a global and local perspective, featuring local artists in dance, poetry, and more. The Simorgh Dance Collective will be performing dances of Persia and the Silk Road.
There are two performances, one starting at 9:30am and the other 11:30am. Each performance is 1 hour in length with no intermission. There will be an educational audience participation and a 10–15 minute Q&A session from the stage. Ideal for grades K–8.
Tickets
ABOUT THE SIMORGH DANCE COLLECTIVE
The Simorgh Dance Collective is a world community of artists devoted to educate and present traditional, classical, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road. Since 2007, it is the first Iranian dance collective led by an Iranian woman, Artistic Director and Founder Farima Berenji. The Simorgh Dance Collective had the honor of performing at receptions for President Obama and President Biden, and has member companies and artist affiliations in Alaska, Canada, Turkey, UK, Iran, and the US.

Benicia Spring Celebration
2025-03-21 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Benicia Public Library, 150 East L Street, Benicia, CA, 94510, United States
Join the Persian New Year (Nowruz) celebration and reception at the Benicia Public Library with sweets, music, poetry, dance performances, and more! Dr. Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective will be performing spring dances of Persia and the Silk Road. All ages welcome! More details coming…
Simorgh Dance Collective
Simorgh Dance Collective The Simorgh Dance Collective is a world community of artists devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional, classical, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road.

Fresno Nowruz Celebration
2025-03-22 | Fresno, CA, Fresno, United States
Nowruz celebration with dances performed by Dr. Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective.

Fremont Library AANHPI Festival
2025-05-31 13:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Fremont Main Library, 2400 Stevenson Blvd , Fremont, CA, 94538, United States
Everyone is welcome to join the Fremont Library in celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander(AANHPI) Heritage Month at the Fremont library! The Simorgh Dance Collective performs folk dances of the Silk Road and invites the audience to participate.
This celebration will consist of two events: a performances event and a hands-on crafts event. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. A free ticket is required for the performances, and a separate free ticket is required for the craft activities. Tickets will be distributed outside the library in the breezeway, beginning at 12:45 PM for both the performances and craft activities, and again at 2:15 PM for crafts only.
This program is presented in partnership with the Shine4Love Teens Club.

A Tribute to Dr. Lloyd Miller
2025-06-12 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Boise) | Fountain Record Store, 202 East 500 South, Salt Lake City, UT, 84111, United States
A Tribute to Dr. Lloyd Miller “Jam for the Man”
Music, stories, and dance celebrating Dr. Lloyd Miller’s life and legacy. RSVP appreciated but not necessary
Dr. Lloyd Miller Dr. Lloyd Miller (1938 – 2024) received his PhD in Persian Language and Literature from the University of Utah after spending seven years living in Iran where he had a weekly prime time television program titled “Kurosh Ali Khan va dastan”. His program featured musicians and other artists from around the world. Lloyd was urged to leave Iran during the revolution in the late 70s, though he had never planned to leave. An expert in world music including American jazz, Lloyd has made numerous recordings. The most popular being “Oriental Jazz” first released in 1968 and recently re-released by Vinyl Me Please selling thousands of copies worldwide. A film about Lloyd’s extraordinary life was released, including 6 years in Europe as a jazzman and university student where he played with some of the most well-known musicians of the time. It was in Paris that Lloyd met Dr. Daryush Safvat who became his lifelong mentor and who taught Lloyd the importance and significance of Persian classical music. Founder of Eastern Arts, with the blessing of Dr. Safvat, Lloyd taught music, philosophy, history, dance and culture to thousands of students at various universities for over 40 years. Read more…

Swinging & Thriving
2025-06-13 15:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, 500 Alhambra Ave, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
A celebration among cancer survivors and their loved ones with food, music, dance, and activities. Appearances by Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective. Please come celebrate with us. Donations appreciated.

A Gathering for Peace
2025-06-17 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
Join us for a free online prayer session, sema, and zikr gathering to support peace and solidarity for the people of Iran. Please bring stories and poetry to share for peace.
Together we wish the people of Iran find healing and peace in the face of alarming unrest and challenges in their country.
Register

A Global Unity in Dance
2025-06-21 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium, 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad, California, 92011, United States
Join us for an unforgettable evening of movement and connection at Global Unity in Dance on June 21 from 6–8 PM at the Schulman Auditorium in the City of Carlsbad.
From the elegance of classical Persian dance to the passionate rhythms of Flamenco and Tango, and the rich traditions of the Silk Road, Mediterranean, South Pacific, East Asia, and the Americas. This vibrant performance celebrates unity, creativity, and the joy of sharing stories through movement. With performances by Farima Berenji.
Organized by Persian Place in collaboration with Lucia Dance Studio and Dance Discover Studio, and with the support of the City of Carlsbad and sponsorship from Cosmic Solar Company, this heartfelt celebration honors International Dance Day by showcasing the beauty of cultural expression through dance.
Tickets $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
Tickets

Classical Persian Dance Workshop
2025-06-22 13:30 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | LaVie Dance Studio, 1255 W. Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA, 92110, United States
Persian Classical Dance Workshop with world renowned dance choreographer, ethnologist, and Sufi master Dr. Farima Berenji.
Experience one of the world’s most enchanting dances. Persian dance is inspired by medieval Persian poetry, miniature artwork, sacred elements, animals, and geometry. Persian dance comes from an ancient culture of 8000 years and its movements often reflect the swirling of a birds, beautiful gesture and feelings, footwork patterns, and dazzling spins. Many great Persian poets extolled dance in their poems and used it as a symbol of the power of life and represented dance as a spiritual instrument to become one with the Divine.
Persian classical dance is delicate, intricate, subtle, and full of meaning. Delicate hand movements, gentle upper body undulations, and facial expressions are the essential elements of this dance. The dance emphasizes feeling, rather than movement. The dancer tells a story, by displaying a variety of expressions.
$45 in advance or $50 at the door.
Register

Contemporary Persian Dance Workshop
2025-06-22 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | LaVie Dance Studio, 1255 W. Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA, 92110, United States
Contemporary Persian dance workshop with world renowned dance choreographer, ethnologist, and Sufi master Dr. Farima Berenji.
In the early 19th century, new styles of dance began to develop in Persia. Artists traveled to Europe, creating a bloom of modernism in the arts, particularly in the royal courts. Illustrations of this period include splendid paintings and texts emphasizing modern contemporary dances in the court and among the elite families. The West, largely as a result of political connections with France, England, and Germany, increasingly influenced Iranian art and dance. As a result, dancing changed dramatically, and classical Persian dance styles merged with Western ones. Ballet, Flamenco, and other modern dance influences migrated to Iran, ushering in the modern age of Persian Dance. Persian contemporary dance today continues to be influenced by fun and inspiring styles bridging east and west as well as the cultural history of its people.
$45 in advance or $50 at the door.
Register

Dance of the Soul Workshop
2025-07-12 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Astralab, 678 La Fayette Park Place, Los Angeles, 90057, United States
A two-day journey of sacred dance, Sufi whirling, and ancient rituals to awaken the heart and remember the wisdom of the ancients. Facilitated by Dr. Farima Berenji.
Step into a sacred journey of remembrance through dance, ritual, and divine movement as we awaken the ancient wisdom of Persia and the mystic heart of Sufism. Across two transformative days, we will whirl, chant, and commune with spirit through sacred ceremonies, devotional dances, and timeless healing practices drawn from Zoroastrian, Yarsani, and Sufi traditions.
Saturday – Dance of the Soul
Join us for a full-day immersion into the sacred art of Persian mystical dance and Sufi whirling — a journey where movement becomes prayer, tradition becomes expression, and the body becomes a bridge to the divine.
Led by Sufi Master, Dr. Farima Berenji, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to experience her unique techniques — developed through years of deep research, personal practice, and spiritual guidance. You will learn her signature approach to preparing the body through specialized breath-work, grounding exercises, and meditative movement.
Together, we will explore the ancient roots of Persian sacred dance and the timeless tradition of Sufi whirling. No previous dance experience or technical skill is required — only a willingness to listen deeply, move soulfully, and surrender to the music within. Through guided movement, storytelling, poetry, and silent practice, we will awaken the wisdom held within the body, experience the healing power of rhythm, and step into the stillness that lies beyond the turning.
Sufi Whirling Techniques and Styles
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Beginning Level: Foundations and Basic Training
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Intermediate Session: Moving Deeper into the Practice
In this focused workshop, we will explore the foundational techniques and diverse styles of Sufi whirling — the sacred practice of spinning toward inner stillness and divine union.
You will learn how to prepare the body and mind for whirling through grounding exercises, breath-work, and posture alignment. We will study the ancient form of whirling from Iran, alongside variations found in other Sufi lineages, honoring the subtle differences in rhythm, style, and spirit.
This workshop will cover:

Farima’s unique breathing techniques
Basic steps for safe and sustainable turning
Techniques for maintaining balance and centering
Hand and arm positions (gestures of offering and receiving)
Variations of whirling styles across Sufi traditions
The spiritual meaning behind movements
Poetry in Motion
Silence and Stillness – Dance of the Heart

Be sure to join us for Sunday’s workshop:
Sunday Daytime – On the Path of the Ancient Ones
Register

Sema: A Gathering of Lovers
2025-07-12 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Astralab, 678 La Fayette Park Place, Los Angeles, 90057, United States
Saturday Evening
Sama Gathering – A Gathering of Lovers
An Evening of Sema (Whirling), Prayer, Zikr, and Sacred Sound
Join us for a heart-opening Sacred Circle and Sama (or Sema) Gathering led by Sufi Master Dr. Farima Berenji. This gathering follows the ancient traditions of Iranian Sufism, drawing from the Khorasani, Qaderi, Ali Qalandar, and Yarsani paths. Through the sacred practices of Sama (spiritual listening and turning) and Zikr (remembrance through chanting), we will journey beyond the self, awaken the heart, and align with the divine rhythm within.
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM (may go later). Donation appreciated
Overview:

Welcoming Circle: Opening meditation and grounding
Zikr & Sama: Whirling, chanting, and sacred movement
Closing Circle: Sharing and gratitude
Sohbet (Sufi Talk): Spiritual conversation and wisdom sharing with Farima

Open your heart! Listen! Turn, dance, move, and cry in any way that makes you feel alive!
Participants, feel free to bring a poem to share. Musicians, we welcome you to join us and bless us with your music.
Guidelines and Rules for Sama Participation:

Please wear comfortable clothing (white or light-colored if possible) and socks or soft-soled shoes.
Respect yourself and others: No talking, taking pictures, or videos on the Sama floor; please maintain a quiet and respectful space at all times.
Permission from Farima is required for any videos or pictures.
Avoid eating a large meal prior to the gathering to ensure comfort during the Sama; bring some water or sweets with you.
Respectful attire is a MUST. Farima will ask you to cover up if proper clothing is not worn.
Absolutely no alcohol or smoking is allowed at the Sama Gathering.

Be sure to join us for Saturday’s afternoon workshop:
Saturday Daytime – Dance of the Soul
Be sure to join us for Sunday’s workshop:
Sunday Daytime – On the Path of the Ancient Ones
Register

On the Path of the Ancient Ones
2025-07-13 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Astralab, 678 La Fayette Park Place, Los Angeles, 90057, United States
A two-day journey of sacred dance, Sufi whirling, and ancient rituals to awaken the heart and remember the wisdom of the ancients. Facilitated by Dr. Farima Berenji.
Step into a sacred journey of remembrance through dance, ritual, and divine movement as we awaken the ancient wisdom of Persia and the mystic heart of Sufism. Across two transformative days, we will whirl, chant, and commune with spirit through sacred ceremonies, devotional dances, and timeless healing practices drawn from Zoroastrian, Yarsani, and Sufi traditions.
Sunday Daytime – On the Path of the Ancient Ones
Join us for a full-day immersion into the ancient sacred ritual dances and healing circles of Iran. This workshop is a rare opportunity to experience the depth of Iranian/Persian devotional dance and ritual ceremonies rooted in ancient Iran, Mitrasism, Yarsanism, Zoroastrianism, and early Sufism.
Through sacred movement, music, chanting, and nature rituals, we will reconnect to the wisdom of the ancients, awaken the body’s inner medicine, and open the heart to the divine.
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Part 1
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Part 2
This immersive includes:

Persian Mystical and Devotional Dance — Sacred movement rituals honoring the Divine, the Sun, and the 4 Sacred Elements.
Ancient Iranian Circle Dances
Sacred Ceremonies — Ancient Huma, Mitra, and Gawati rituals (medicine dance)
Nature Immersion — Observing, healing, and ritual connection with the natural world.
Sacred Steps — Walking meditations, silent healing walks, and integration practices.

Be sure to include Saturday’s Dance of the Soul afternoon workshop and evening gathering in your schedule:
Saturday: Dance of the Soul
Register

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2025-08-03 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
Companions of the Sun
A Lecture by Scholar Dr. Farima Berenji
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression.
Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her soon-to-be released book Companions of the Sun
The program will be broadcast on Zoom hosted by the Center for Creative Living as part of their weekly Sunday gathering. Please register in advance
Join by Zoom
Meeting ID: 217 611 8333
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Please remember to send a donation to the Center for Creative Living so they can keep the doors open.
Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Iranian Dance and Ritual (Lecture & Performance)
2025-08-10 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Sunnyvale Library, 665 W Olive Ave, Sunnyvale, CA, 94086, United States
Learn about the origins and practice of Iranian dance in this talk and performance by Dr. Farima Berenji. She will discuss Iranian rituals and beliefs in relation to dance, as well as how Iranian culture has impacted global music and dance traditions. There will be a short performance and audience participation dance as part of the program.
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression. Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her soon-to-be released book Companions of the Sun
This event is part of the will be held in the Sunnyvale Library Program Room. Registration is not required.
This August, go back to school with the Sunnyvale Library Level Up Your Learning: Adult Lecture Series. Learn about history and culture around the world from the following talks:

Sunday, Aug. 10 – Iranian Dance and Ritual (this event)
Monday, Aug. 11 – The Silk Road: Globalization in the Ancient World
Tuesday, Aug. 19 – Muslim Women and Global Feminism
Thursday, Aug. 21 – The Chinese Exclusion Act
Monday, Aug. 25 – Transgender Histories in Imperial China

Dr. Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Sounds of Silk: Discover Music and Dance from the Silk Road
2025-08-16 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Phoenix) | Salt Lake City Public Library, 210 E 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT, 84111, United States
Dr. Farima Berenji and Qais Essar will perform and discuss dance and music from the cultures along the ancient Silk Road. This event draws connections with the musical instruments and textiles from the vast collections of Eastern Arts on display in the Special Collections Reading Room, Level 4 of the SLC City Libraray to celebrate the diverse cultures of the historic Silk Road.
Dr. Farima Berenji is an award winning, internationally acclaimed dance artist, ethnologist, choreographer, instructor, and archaeologist specializing in ancient, sacred, classical, and folkloric dances spanning the millenniums of Persian civilization, the Silk Road, and the Near East.
Qais Essar is an Afghan-American musician based in Phoenix, Arizona. A rabab player and songwriter, he is noted for the song “The Crown Sleeps” from the 2017 animated film The Breadwinner, which won the Best Original Song prize at the 6th Canadian Screen Awards in 2018.

World Arts West Dance Festival 2025 Non-Western Dance & Healing Panel Discussion
2025-08-17 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Beat, 2560 Ninth Street, Suite 119, Berkeley, CA, 94710, United States
Dr. Farima Berenji, Dr. Anne Huang, and Samuel Cortez form a discussion panel on “Non-Western Dance & Healing.”
The 2025 World Arts West Dance Festival will focus on the theme “Dance as Health and Healing,” exploring what constitutes a healthy community. It aims to showcase dance and art forms rooted in cultural traditions, including sacred, social, and contemporary. The festival will feature movement workshops, artist dialogues, and new activities like Hawaiian lei making, Kalimba music and Afro-Cuban healing rituals. Additionally, community activations will occur across the San Francisco Bay Area, emphasizing the theme of health and healing through dance.
The Beat is located in suite 119 of 2560 Ninth Street. It is an ADA accessible building, studio is on the first floor. It can be reached by bus (AC Transit 36, 72/72M/72R or Emery-Go-Round Hollis Bus), car, bike, and foot, with street parking available.
Register

World Arts West Dance Festival 2025 Sufi Whirling Workshop
2025-08-17 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Beat, 2560 Ninth Street, Suite 119, Berkeley, CA, 94710, United States
Dr. Farima Berenji presents a one hour Sufi whirling workshop at the 2025 World Arts West Dance Festival.
Learn the basic technique of Sufi whirling (Iranian and Turkish style), history, and theory. Farima’s teachings are based on Indo-Iranian ancient rituals, science of whirling, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation, maintaining balance and posture, controlling dizziness, self-focus during turning, breath work, and more. For this short workshop please wear comfortable clothing, socks or soft-soled shoes. Avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior.
The 2025 World Arts West Dance Festival will focus on the theme “Dance as Health and Healing,” exploring what constitutes a healthy community. It aims to showcase dance and art forms rooted in cultural traditions, including sacred, social, and contemporary. The festival will feature movement workshops, artist dialogues, and new activities like Hawaiian lei making, Kalimba music and Afro-Cuban healing rituals. Additionally, community activations will occur across the San Francisco Bay Area, emphasizing the theme of health and healing through dance.
The Beat is located in suite 119 of 2560 Ninth Street. It is an ADA accessible building, studio is on the first floor. It can be reached by bus (AC Transit 36, 72/72M/72R or Emery-Go-Round Hollis Bus), car, bike, and foot, with street parking available.
Register

Book Talk and Performance on Iranian Dance and Rituals
2025-09-16 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | North Beach Branch Library, 850 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, 94133, United States
Learn about the origins and practice of Iranian dance in this talk and performance by Dr. Farima Berenji. She will discuss Iranian rituals and beliefs in relation to dance, as well as how Iranian culture has impacted global music and dance traditions. There will be a short performance and audience participation dance as part of the program presented in the North Beach Library community room.
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression. Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her soon-to-be released book Companions of the Sun
Dr. Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Pushing Boundaries
2025-09-19 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Palo Alto Arts Center, 1313 Newell Rd, Palo Alto, CA, 94303, United States
Join us for a special free celebration of the Fall 2025 Art Center exhibition “Pushing Boundaries: Ceramics and Identity.” Enjoy a cash bar, hands-on art activities, and a chance to meet the artists in the exhibition. Palo Alto Art Center members join early at 5 p.m. for a special curator walk through.
Special performances by Mosaic America. Mosaic America presents a mosaic of cultural dance and music honoring local multicultural traditions featuring the Simorgh Dance Collective and other local artists. Farima Berenji will perform a traditional Georgian dance. Mosaic America is a renowned women-led organization known for its unique approach to advancing equity, inclusion, and belonging through intercultural arts and dialogue.

SpARC 2025 Festival
2025-09-20 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock, San Jose, CA, United States
The Simorgh Dance Collective is a featured dance group of SpARC 2025. Mark your calendars for SpARC 2025 at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San José! This exciting festival will showcase incredible dance talent from around the South Bay, along with free dance classes and local artist vendors. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the vibrant arts scene!
SpARC Dance Festival celebrates the richness of our local dance community, fostering collaboration, artistic growth, and exposure. It’s vision is to create dance opportunities in San José, providing platforms for dancers, choreographers, and emerging artists to shine.
Ticket Prices:
$12 Student/Senior (55+)
$25 General Admission
$50 VIP Package – includes special seating in our VIP section and a swag bag!
Buy now!

Roya Foundation Mehregan Festival 2025
2025-09-28 11:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon, 94583, United States
The Roya Foundation Mehregan Festival features live music, performances, entertainment and food, arts, and craft vendors and more! Come to watch performances by the Simorgh Dance Collective.
Roya Foundation
Providing Humanitarian, Educational Assistance, Health Care, and Medical Aid Globally
The Roya Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides humanitarian, educational assistance, and medical aid to disadvantaged children. Provide aid in the expansion of schools, orphanages, and hospitals towards the betterment of the lives of children globally. Their mission is to help provide the children with a well-equipped, safe, and nurturing educational environment enabling them to thrive as healthy and productive adults. Read more…

Sema Gathering
2025-10-02 19:30 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Golden Drum, 97 Green St, Brooklyn, 11222, United States
Join us in prayer for healing and peace, music, poetry, Iranian and ancient Mithraic whirling rituals, Yarsani Zikr and reading of Kalams (Zoroastrians, Iranic and Yarsani book of prayers and chanting). We will create a sacred, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us, relax and open our heart, body, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement, music, love, and stillness. Be moved by beautiful, sacred music.
During our Sema Gathering, Master Farima Berenji will lead Zikr, Sema, and other rituals and ceremonies. Join us to celebrate our fellowship in love and spirit with sacred and mystical Sufi poetry (Farsi and English), meditation, whirling with live and recorded music, then close with prayer and zikr.
Open your heart! Listen! Turn, dance, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive!

Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji specializes in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been the recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2025-10-03 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Casa Clara, 218 E 25th St, New York, NY, 10010, United States
Companions of the Sun
A Lecture by Scholar Dr. Farima Berenji
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression.
Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her book Companions of the Sun
Dr. Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…
