The Box
Solitary confinement, a deeply distressing ordeal for political detainees in Iran, takes a toll on their mental and physical health. In this state, their auditory experience is limited to the "Azan" call to prayer, the distressing cries of fellow prisoners, or an eerie silence. Their movements and space are limited within a confined environment. This piece will delve into the transformation of human instincts from natural to survival mode. Some prisoners, like Toomaj (an Iranian rapper), endure severe torture, while others, like Vahid Afkari, have been in solitary confinement for 1000 days. "Azan" is the call to prayer; it's a beautiful, eloquent singing of praise to God. "Allahu Akbar" means God is great. The government employs these prayers as a form of torture for these political prisoners. Dancing to prayers is considered a sin by extremists, as these prayers are deemed divine and should not be associated with any dance or artistic movements.
Choreography: Tina Bararian
New York 2023