• Text and direction: Amir Reza Koohestani

    Performers: Ainaz Azarhoush, Mohammad Reza Hosseinzadeh

    Dramaturgy: Samaneh Ahmadian

    Director’s assistant: Dariush Faezi

    Lights and scenography: Éric Soyer

    Video: Yasi Moradi, Benjamin Krieg

    Music: Phillip Hohenwarter, Matthias Peyker

    Costumes: Negar Nobakht Foghani

    English translation and surtitle adaptation: Massoumeh Lahidji

    Supertitles operator: Negar Nobakht Foghani

    Production, administration, promotion: Pierre Reis / Mehr Theatre Group

  • FRIDAY, JAN 10

    5–7 PM | FESTIVAL KICK-OFF (TEA ROOM)
    Hosted by the “Unseen Iran” Committee
    Raise a glass with us as we kick off the festival with Iranian refreshments and celebrate the incredible artists, chefs, a musical performance by Mahya Hamedi and Bahar Badieitabar, and more that will be featured in the festival. Refreshments will be provided.
    SOLD OUT. JOIN THE WAITLIST HERE >

    7:30–8:30 PM |  PERFORMANCE OF BLIND RUNNER
    BUY TICKETS >

    SATURDAY, JAN 11

    12:30–1:45 PM | CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES (Tea Room)
    Hosted by Pardis for Children

    1:15–1:45 PM | PUPPET SHOW
    Sponsored by Nazgol Saati & Roya Khadjavi 
    Kheymeh Shab Bazi is an ancient Iranian puppetry tradition celebrated for its satirical comedy performances. The intricately crafted marionette-style puppets vividly bring to life characters from Persian folklore, each imbued with vibrant and distinct personalities.

    These performances transport audiences to the enchanting world of Persian tales, featuring a brave champion (Pahlavan), a timid prince (Shahzade), the beautiful Daughter of the King of Fairies, and the intertwining love stories of these characters. At the heart of Kheymeh Shab Bazi is Mobarak, a witty and outspoken servant who works for the king yet boldly critiques him with biting sarcasm and humor. Surrounding them is a colorful cast of supporting characters, weaving together the rich tapestry of these timeless folktales.

    Far from their origins in Iran, these puppets and their stories have traveled across the world, introducing children to the beauty of Iranian folklore. Through Kheymeh Shab Bazi, there is hope to revive these beloved tales and preserve this ancient theatrical art for audiences both at home and abroad.

    SOLD OUT. JOIN THE WAITLIST HERE >

    2–3 PM | PERFORMANCE OF BLIND RUNNER – CHILDCARE PROVIDED
    Free childcare with crafts & music provided by Pardis for Children while parents see Blind Runner. Capacity is limited, so sign up early. For children ages 4 & up.
    BUY TIX >  RSVP FOR CHILDCARE HERE >

    5-7 PM | IRANIAN SHORT FILMS (TEA ROOM)
    Co-Sponsored by Marjan Ghara, Ali Granmayeh & One Planet Group
    Screening of Iranian short films followed by a Q+A with the filmmakers. Films will include award-winning shorts “Motherland” and “Taha,” among others. Refreshments will be provided.
    SOLD OUT. JOIN THE WAITLIST HERE >

    7:30-8:30 PM | PERFORMANCE OF BLIND RUNNER
    BUY TIX >

    8:30–11 PM | DJ DANCE PARTY (MAIN LOBBY)
    Sponsored by Cyrus Claffey, Amir Korangy & Sean Khozin

    Show us your best moves as we light up the dance floor with a mix of Iranian and house music, by DJ Nick AM and his wife Athena. St. Ann’s Bar Jolie will be open with drinks and snacks for purchase.
    RSVP HERE >

    SUNDAY, JAN 12

    12–4 PM BACKGAMMON TOURNAMENT (TEA ROOM)
    Sponsored by Ali Partovi
    32 players compete for the ultimate prize! Refreshments will be provided. BYOBB (Bring Your Own Backgammon Board!)
    SOLD OUT. JOIN THE WAITLIST HERE >

    3-4:30 PM | IRANIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC JAM & TASTE OF IRAN (MAIN LOBBY)
    Sponsored by The Hamid and Christina Moghadam Program in Iranian Studies at Stanford University
    Surround your senses with Iran! Enjoy the sounds of classical Iranian music by Amir Vahab while nibbling on Iranian bites and snacks from local chefs.
    SOLD OUT. JOIN THE WAITLIST HERE >

    5-6 PM | PERFORMANCE OF BLIND RUNNER
    BUY TICKETS >

    Additional Sponsors: Nasiri Foundation, Hamid Biglari