|
|
 |
 |
|
 |
||
|
It was around the same time of leaving my native country of Iran at the age of eighteen, that I was introduced to the music of Hossein Alizadeh, one of the greatest of contemporary Iranian composers and musicians. I found his music extraordinarily powerful, and remember vividly what a major role it played in influencing me to embody a great vision, which at the time seemed so extremely unlikely to materialize into reality. I could never have imagined that the dream which found its first source of inspiration in the music of this Persian master, and which preoccupied my mind for so many years, would gradually evolve into this artistic and cultural accomplishment.
The rebirth of the Iranian ballet in the form of Les Ballets Persans is the result of five years of steadfast determination to realize what was once nothing more than a beautiful dream. The path that led us here though, has not been an easy one. Had it not been because of my deep affection for the rich heritage of my native homeland, combined with my fascination for ballet, I don’t think I would have found the strength necessary to overcome all the difficulties I was confronted with. The further I walked the path, and the more problems I encountered, the more determined and almost obsessed I became to reach the goal. The fact that this project never received the serious consideration of people whose support I had counted on didn’t make it any easier. I was disappointed to encounter a minimal interest on behalf of some of the veterans of Iranian ballet and dance. Fortunately, I had the great pleasure to acquaint myself with individuals and institutions from all around the world who showed great enthusiasm for my ideas, and whose assistance proved invaluable. I can’t emphasize enough how impossible it would have been to accomplish what we have today without their tremendous support and advice. One of the most exciting accomplishments in creating Les Ballets Persans is the establishment of newborn relations between Iranian and Azerbaijanian artists, which reflect the strong cultural and historic ties that exist between our two countries. I truly feel that I have found a great treasure in the Azerbaijanian ballets, which embody the mutual bonds between the cultures of Iran and Azerbaijan. I’m especially pleased to have made the acquaintance of the renowned artists of Azerbaijanian ballet: Mme. Rafiga Akhundova and Maksud Mamedov, who without doubt are among the greatest choreographers of the Near and Middle East. I’m convinced that this continued cooperation, based on our common culture and historic ties will have far reaching results for the rebirth of the Iranian ballet. From the very first days of my ballet education I was determined to one day use this old western art form to present Iranian culture and arts. Many years have passed since the music of master Hossein Alizadeh inspired me to envisage this dream. Today, it’s a great honor for me to announce that Mr. Alizadeh is among some of the finest and most respected Iranian and Azerbaijanian artists who comprise the artistic staff of Les Ballets Persans. I would also like to add how fortunate and grateful I am that the renowned contemporary Iranian author and historian, Mr. Ali Mirfetros, has contributed with a written statement in which he stresses the importance and great value of this project. Tonight I invite you to a performance which will expose glimpses of the culture and arts of one of the world’s most ancient nations. It encompasses various periods of Iranian history, ranging from the era of the Sassanid dynasty till today. What we will see is the result of the artistic abilities of eighteen young talented dancers from fifteen different countries, who through their hard work and enthusiasm have contributed to the rebirth of a world heritage. By bringing together the talents of artists from various countries and cultures, it is my great hope that through the universal expression of the arts we can contribute to a dialogue between the peoples and cultures of the world, which can lead to greater interaction and understanding. The creation and establishment of Les Ballets Persans has made me believe even more in miracles. These miracles were brought to us in the form of friends who could and did contribute what we needed most at the specific time when our paths crossed. From the depth of my heart, I want to express my gratitude to all those friends for their support and assistance. Finally, I would like to stress the importance of the continued and expanded public help and support which our ballet company depends on in order for it to survive and to thrive. Any such contribution, no matter in what form, is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Nima
Kiann
|
||||||
