The Story of the Reed A Journey of Sound, Poetry, and Inner Reflection Organized by: Persian Place in collaboration with the Center for World Music and with support from the City of Carlsbad This program is funded in part by the City of Carlsbad’s Cultural Arts Office. Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 6–7:30 p.m. Venue: Carlsbad Auditorium: Address: 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92011 About the Experience Inspired by the opening verses of Rumi’s Masnavi, The Story of the Reed is an immersive, multi-sensory experience weaving together the haunting sound of the ney, poetry in Persian and English, theatrical expression, and live Persian calligraphy. The reed flute (ney)—hollow yet filled with song—has long symbolized the human soul’s longing to return to its divine source. Its voice reminds us that emptiness can become a doorway to transformation. Through music, movement, and the written word, audiences are invited to journey inward—beyond listening, into feeling. This is not simply a performance, but a shared moment of reflection: an invitation to pause, reconnect, and remember the stillness and wisdom within. On a summer evening, we gather to experience longing, beauty, and belonging, discovering how what feels lost on the outside can become light within. Featuring: Mohammad Khodadadi – Internationally acclaimed ney player and composer, bridging Persian and Western classical traditions. Dr. Yasaman Mostajeran – Persian calligraphy artist and psychotherapist, exploring word, sound, and silence. Dr. Nadia Thalji – Psychologist and artistic director, weaving cultural memory, emotion, and transformation. Lucia Herlinda – Award-winning Middle Eastern and Flamenco fusion dancer, bringing movement and storytelling to life. https://persianplace.org/
