Nazri
Nazri is an intercultural hybrid performance that weaves together music, dance, and the ancient Iranian tradition of communal giving. This multifaceted work embarks on a journey through the ritual of Nazri, where the act of cooking food transcends mere sustenance and becomes a powerful symbol of compassion and connection.
At the heart of Nazri lies an Iranian contemporary dancer, embodying the spirit of the ritual. Her choreography draws inspiration from traditional Iranian styles, reimagined for the modern stage. Flowing with the chador (Iranian veil), she dances with trays, skimmers, colanders, and beans, transforming the cooking utensils into extensions of the ritual's essence.
Accompanying her are three virtuoso percussionists, each representing a distinct cultural heritage: Iranian, Indian, and Australian. Their percussions become voices, weaving intricate sonic textures that capture the soundscape of the ritual – the rhythmic clinking of pots, the sizzle of cooking food, and the murmurs of shared stories. Through their collaborative improvisation, they forge new sonic capabilities, born from the shared experience of Nazri and their cultural approaches.
Nazri is not merely a performance; it is a workshop, a space for exploration and dialogue. Over two to three weeks, the percussionists will delve into the depths of the ritual, their percussion becoming conduits for cultural exchange and artistic innovation. As they experiment with each other's sounds, they push the boundaries of their instruments, seeking new textures and expressions to paint the sonic canvas of Nazri.
Ultimately, Nazri is a testament to the unifying power of rituals and the transformative potential of art. It is a celebration of cultural diversity, a call for compassion, and a reminder that even the simplest act of sharing can create ripples of connection that resonate far beyond the stage.
Storyline
“The dawn light, a canvas of soft gold and rose, peeked through the window. Nature’s alarm replaced the steady tick-tock of the old wall clock. It was 5 am, chador was swirled around her, kept by her teeth, as she descended the steps down to the parking, broom in hand.
The rhythmic dance of her chador became a whirlwind as she scrubbed the floor, clearing space for the colossal pot. Onions wept tears of laughter as they tumbled into the chopping bowl, potatoes giggled as they met the knife, and the lentils, like a chorus of tiny voices, hummed a song of anticipation in the cleaning tray.
Every year, on this day, the aroma of fragrant lentil stew would weave its way through the neighbourhood, a warm embrace for every doorstep. With a tray balanced on her head, she became a silent messenger of love, knocking on doors and offering smiles wider than the dishes themselves. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a tradition, Nazri, a thread woven with love and laughter.”
Artists
Niki Johnson
Elnaz Sheshgelani
Shervin Mirzeinali
Maharshi Raval
Sohrab Kolahdooz
Workshop
Stage 1: Individual Exploration
Sensory Exploration
Performers exchange their percussions, focusing on textures, sounds, and emotional responses.
Prompts: "What story does this percussion tell?" "Describe its personality." "Imagine travelling through its sound."
Sonic Discovery
Performers explore percussions freely, documenting sounds, techniques, and emotions evoked.
Focus on diverse sound-making methods: scraping, striking, blowing, shaking.
Encourage experimentation with nontraditional techniques and objects instinctively.
Self-Assessment and Categorization
Performers reflect on their experience, categorizing sounds based on musicality, texture, and cultural associations.
They rate their discoveries based on personal appeal and potential for artistic expression.
This forms a baseline for individual growth and informs Stage 2 exploration.
Stage 2: Cultural Immersion
Expert Presentations
The Iranian, Indian, and Australian percussionist introduce their instruments' history, traditions, and playing techniques.
Interactive sessions: participants ask questions, and try instruments under expert guidance.
Guided Experimentation
Performers apply acquired knowledge to their exploration.
They experiment with traditional techniques, incorporating cultural elements into their musical expression.
Encouragement to explore diverse rhythmic patterns and sound textures.
Comparative Analysis
Performers compare pre- and post-immersion experiences, analyzing how cultural context influences their perception and technique.
Group discussions and presentations to share insights and celebrate individual discoveries.
Stage 3: Collaborative Innovation
Score Exploration and Deconstruction
Performers receive the composed work with a durational framework and descriptive notes on desired sounds and textures.
They dissect the work, analyzing its structure, dynamics, and emotional intent.
Each performer identifies sections where they can contribute their unique sonic palette.
Sound Sculpting & Technique Integration
Drawing on their individual exploration and cultural immersion, performers explore sound-making possibilities on traditional Nazri cooking utensils within the composed framework.
They apply the unique sounds of the cooking utensils alongside traditional percussion and electronic elements to create a layered and evocative soundscape.
The composer provides guidance on integrating the new sounds seamlessly into the piece.
Movement & Interaction
The dancer joins the workshop, exploring movement and gestures inspired by the evolving soundscape created by the performers.
The percussionists and dancer engage in playful interaction, learning to move around each other and navigate the space as a cohesive unit.
This interaction becomes a metaphor for the collaborative spirit of preparing and sharing food in the Nazri ritual
Stage 4: Collaborative Performance
Rehearsals and refinement
Performers come together to rehearse the piece, integrating their interpretations within the overall framework.
The composer provides feedback on musicality, clarity of intent, and cohesion.
Focus on refining the interplay between acoustic and electronic elements, creating a seamless sonic tapestry.
Light & Sound Design
Lighting and sound technicians collaborate with the artistic team to design a nuanced and immersive experience.
Sound amplification and processing are employed to enhance the unique sounds of the cooking utensils and create a balanced sonic mix.
Lighting design complements the movement and mood of the piece, creating visual interest.
Performance
Performers present the final version of the piece to a live audience, showcasing their collaborative journey and creative interpretations.
