This program is dedicated to the Woman.Life.Freedom movement of Iran, Bahram Beyzaie, all the artists in exile, and all those who are banned from working in Iran.

Diaspora Arts Connection proudly presents Asiyeh Ziaei's one-woman rendition of Bahram Beyzaie's Azhdahak. Azhdahak is a play written by the renowned author and director, Bahram Beizaie. It is a modern perspective on the story of Zahak from the Shahnameh (Ferdowsi's Book of Kings) in which the audience sees the story from a different and dramatic lens. This beautiful story was written when Bahram Beizaei was only nineteen and yet, it is teeming with rich literature and contains a story which to this day, best encapsulates what is truly happening in modern day Iran and the genesis from which such atrocities came to being. It effectively demonstrates how a country can be ruled under such unbelievable tyranny for so long. It also evinces the absence of such basic pillars of human rights such as, the pursuit of happiness. The story will be told in the format of Barkhaani, similar to age-old tradition of Naghalli. This program is entirely in Persian language.

"As an artist and a human being, it is my duty to be the voice of people, especially for all the directors, actors and artists who live in Iran and are refusing to work in an effort to oppose the regime in their own way. This shall be my way of paying homage to Bahram Beizaie with whom, I had the pleasure of commencing my career as an actress. Mr. Beizaie, now in exile, is arguably the most significant and influential part of Iranian literature and cinema, yet his masterpieces have gone unseen. It is TIME for this performance," says Asiyeh Ziaei.

This will be a one-woman show. The actress will play multiple characters. The performance includes dancing and music. With utilization of costumes and the magic of theater, this project will create a unique atmosphere while engaging the feelings of the audience--the feelings to which they may not have access on a daily basis. This performance will represent rich Persian literature --one which has not been heard yet.

Purchase tickets and check out the Facebook event page below.