Persian Rite of Spring: the story of Norouz/Nowruz
Commissioned by the Farhang Foundation
World Premiere: Los Angeles County Museum of Art, March 14, 2010
Written, created and performed by Niloufar Talebi, with Bobak Salehi
The Persian Rite of Spring brings to life the mythology, poetry, music, and folklore of Nowruz/Norouz
یلدا جشن سده چهارشنبه سوری نوروز سیزده بدر
‘The oldest art form, storytelling, is on dazzling display in Niloufar Talebi’s electrifying and multidisciplinary wisdom. Niloufar masterfully captures the essence of ancient rituals and myths while infusing them with a thoroughly modern sensibility. The result is a theatrical performance for all ages that will awaken even the most slumbering soul into a new beginning!’
— Maryna Hrushetska, Art Consultant
'The future changes the past. The name “Rite of Spring” may bring to mind the 1913 production of Igor Stravinsky’s work, which threw a lightning bolt into the heart of classical culture. Now there is a new work in dialogue with Stravinsky: Niloufar Talebi’s The Persian Rite of Spring: the Story of Nowruz furthers the ongoing conversation by offering a new modernism, rooted in ancient Persian humanism, with a vitality and power deeply needed in these uncertain times. Talebi turns Stravinsky’s sacrifice on its head. Unlike the “Chosen One” in the ballet, she embodies the ancient rite of spring with no need to destroy herself for the patriarchy.'
— Gary Gach, Author and Translator
