IRNA, Iran
Aug 4, 2006
Iranian Theater Under Int’l Spotlight
Tehran, Aug 4, IRNA Iran-Theater A close look at the functioning of
Performing Arts Center’s International Affairs Department in the four
months since March as well as the growing participation of artists
and entries in foreign events reveal that the Iranian theater
industry has had an active international presence.
The Arts and Culture Desk of IRNA’s English morning paper, the Iran
Daily has in its Saturday edition focused on the matter.
The daily writes, "Of course, in some cases the high quality of
Iranian theatrical productions can be considered as an indicator of
the major improvement in the country’s theater industry.
"The department has been involved in organizing the 11th
International Puppet Festival for the past three months.
"Its activities include submission of calls to Iranian foreign
cultural and political offices as well as 400 puppet show bands.
It is also planning to hold the 25th International Fajr Theater
Festival.
"The office seeks to conduct talks with performing groups from
Germany, Italy, France, Spain and Armenia to undertake joint
productions.
"The International Affairs Department also plans to hold specialized
meetings and educational workshops in Iran in cooperation with
international artists and experts.
"Today, Iranian theater industry can forge communication with
international cultural centers better than in the past as the artists
have also presented successful performances worldwide.
"For example, Amir Reza Kouhestani, a young director has performed
many plays overseas since 2002 including ‘Dance Over Glasses’ at Le
Lieu Unique in France and ‘Recent Experiences’ at Maison Des Arts.
Mohammad Rahmanian is also one of the directors who has actively
participated in student festivals and theatrical events.
‘Fenz’, written and directed by Rahmanian, was warmly welcomed in
Europe and Canada.
"Meanwhile, leading Iranian artist Behrouz Gharibpour along with Ali
Pakdast and Farindokht Zahedi reviewed of puppet shows in Poland last
March.
"Gharibpour served as a member of panel of jury at the international
Puppet Arts Festival in the Czech Republic two months later.
"Such involvements signify the high status of Iranian artists in
international events.
Prominent director Chista Yasrebi also participated in the Russian
Classical Festival with her production ‘Crime and Punishment’, which
is based on a free interpretation of a novel by Theodore Dostoyevsky.
Yasrebi received plaque of honor at the festival while Mahsa Mahjour
won the award for the best actor.
"Afsaneh Zamani also staged ‘Three Piglets’ in Turkey while Zahra
Sabri performed ‘Eight Moment’ in the Czech Republic.
"Also, 24th Freiburg International Festival was attended by a group
of outstanding Iranian theater experts who presented three Iranian
puppet shows.