نی نامه / Song of the Reed: from Balkh with Love

نی نامه / Song of the Reed is a captivating exploration of the first poem titled “Beshno” or “Listen” in the book of Masnavi by the universally acclaimed poet Rumi. Drawing inspiration from Rumi’s birthplace, the ancient city of Balkh, and the rich cultural tapestry of Afghanistan, it creates space and time for the audience to actively listen. This atmosphere is facilitated by a cast of six cross-generational and multi-disciplinary artists whose breaths and bodies collaboratively create a flowing river of dance and music.
The hypnotizing dance is presented in the contemporary style of Mugham, an integrated practice developed by Sashar Zarif that blends dance, music, and storytelling and is inspired and informed by the Sufi and Shamanic rituals of Muslim societies.
Zarif will be joined by guest artists Nasrullah Tavakoli (Afghan Dutar and vocal), Günay Akca (Turkish Reed/Ney), Sashar Zarif Dance Theatre’s Mairead Filgate, Kathia Wittenborn, Ethan Kim, Sully Malaeb Proulx, creative facilitator Katherine Duncanson, and lighting designer Gabriel Cropley.
نی نامه / Song of the Reed will be performed on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 8:00 pm, and Sunday, February 12th, 2023 at 2:00 pm. Admission to the galleries is included with the ticket the day of the show. The address for Aga Khan Museum is 77 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON.
Please note, Sunday’s afternoon performance will be followed by a conversation and Q&A with the artist.