TEHRAN – The Fars Symphony Orchestra is preparing to perform the "Hafez Opera" in Shiraz later this month, with music composition by Ebrahim Bazrafkan and vocals by Mahyar Shadorvan. 

The opera will provide a captivating portrayal of the life and personality of the renowned Persian poet, Hafez.

“The upcoming production is a unique work that sheds light on the different stages in Hafez's life,” Shadorvan said, IRNA reported. 

The opera has been crafted through in-depth research and analysis of the famous poet's life and work, he explained. 

Sources such as “Hafez's Life” by Mansour Payandeh, “Hafez's Mind and Language” by Bahauddin Khorramshahi, “From the Alley of the Wanderers” by Abdul-Hossein Zarrinkub, as well as various articles in the field, have been crucial in the development of the "Hafez Opera", he noted. 

These literary works, along with historical references surrounding the poet's life and thoughts, have directly informed many of the pieces within the production, he added. 

Shiraz Municipality will be hosting the concert during the week-long Hafez celebration, he noted and added: “The carefully curated pieces will be inspired by historical references about Hafez's life and ideas, aiming to showcase his artistic legacy to a wider audience, making sure that his poetry and ideas remain relevant.”

The opera will feature a mix of traditional and classical Iranian music, influenced by the harmony of classical music, he said. 

“Each verse performed in the opera has been taken from Hafez's ghazals. Moreover, a group of Shirazi singers will accompany in some parts, creating a setting that highlights the conversations of Hafez and his presence among the world of Malek Khatoon, contemporary poets, and kings.”

The opera performance, which is all set to showcase the artistic legacy of Hafez, will feature a section dedicated to mystical thoughts of Hafez, he stated.  

He also noted that the names of these pieces were inspired by one of Mahmoud Farshchian's miniatures and the composer's interpretation of Hafez’s mysticism. 

“The performance will also feature a conversation between Hafez and Malek Khatoon, his supposed beloved, which is supported by historical references and adds to the overall appeal of the show.” 

Due to high demand, the concert might extend to additional nights or performances as well, he added. 

Notably, this will be the first-ever opera performance featuring Hafez's poems to be presented in Iran, he explained. 

“However, the cost associated with such a grand project, including stage design, actors, costumes, and other amenities, is substantial. Therefore, it is essential for cultural and artistic officials and private companies to come together and support this vibrant display of Iranian culture and art,” he concluded. 

Mahyar Shadorvan is a vocalist and university lecturer known for albums such as "Love, Night, and Fascination," "My Home is a Cloud," and "Hidden Corners of Morning," who performed with the "Nava-ye Aftab" orchestra led by Amin Salemi in Rudaki and Vahdat Halls during last month, coinciding with the period leading to Arbaeen.

Shadorvan recently released the album "Tears of Rain" with music composed by Jahanshah Borumand, which includes orchestral arrangements. 

SAB/