Iran, France collaborate on joint theater production ‘Hope’ in Clermont-Ferrand

Performance explores intercultural cooperation and the theme of rebuilding, showcasing young artists from both nations

CLERMONT-FERRAND, France (MNTV) — A joint theater production between Iran and France, titled Hope (“L’espoir” in French), was recently performed in Clermont-Ferrand, France, blending cultural elements from both countries.

The project aimed to explore intercultural cooperation through the performing arts, bringing together young artists from Iran and France. 

According to the media and publicity consultant of the play, Sara Haddadi, the performance centered around the theme of hope, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and the resilience to rebuild.

The production process featured two in-person workshops, held in Tehran and Clermont-Ferrand, along with joint online sessions, culminating in a final workshop where rehearsals and intellectual exchanges were transformed into a shared stage performance.

Hope was performed in French, Persian, English, and Chinese, adopting an episodic format that combined various performance styles, including documentary theater, object theater, movement, and singing.

The directors of the production were Neda Shahrokhi from Iran and Yassaman Khajehi from France, with vocal coaching provided by Hasmik Karapetyan. 

The performers from both countries included Agathe Combettes, Elie Mpiana, Elina Naseri, Emil Amirian, Parmis Hamrahi, Romina Mohseni Far, Setareh Satari, Saba Mohammadi, Matin Mohammadhoseini, Maryam Dashtabadi, Noora Mahmoodi, Hanita Delfani, Jeanne Rondeau, Joséphine Vergé, Julie Huckel, Julie Robert, Lea Peguy, Pauline Cottin, Qiuhan Tu, and Romain Poyer.