This time almost a month ago the US and Iran were at high tension: Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani had been killed by a US drone strike, Iranian missiles struck a US base in Iraq, and a Ukranian passenger jet leaving Tehran was destroyed killing all aboard. Just days before this my fiscal sponsor had withdrew support making it necessary for them to return donations intended for our work. I expressed doubts on social media that our January 11 performance of the Journey of the Simorgh, a retelling of the 12th century epic The Conference of the Birds with Persian and Silk Road dance and music, should proceed. In response, I was truly humbled by the outpouring of support and donations sent to us from all over the world assuring us that we should not cancel the show. Proceed it did to a full house that night to receive a standing ovation! My sincere thanks to all dancers, musicians, theater support staff, and volunteers who made this possible. Together we showed the power of cultural art can overcome the power of hate and conflict.
Coming to San Jose on February 22, Tarsa is a tale of love, longing, and tragedy, a tale as dramatic as Romeo and Juliet. Tarsa premiers to the stage with Persian drama, dance, and music and stars Sadegh Hatefi, Ali Aminipour, and myself. Music performed live by Homeyra Banejad and Ensemble. Advance tickets are available now at http://tarsa.bpt.me. For those of reading this we have a special 10% discounted price for tickets online on February 5 and 6.
Blessings,
Farima
“You have to keep breaking your heart until it opens.”
~Rumi