Theater can be as old as a culture itself or the pathway to modern thought and ideas. This unique set offers both ends of the theatrical spectrum. From Nasser Taghvai, one of the original filmmakers of the Iranian New Wave, comes Dress Rehearsal: The Brave Hurr's Ta'zieh (2005, 64 mins.), a rare glimpse into the performance of a ta'zieh, an ancient and uniquely Iranian passion play that celebrates the glory of martyrdom for the sake of justice. Based on stories and fables of Islam's prophet Mohammad, but influenced by Iranian folklore, the ta'zieh became the sole dramatic form in the world of Islam after the rise of the Shiite sect. The Theatre of Tadeusz Kantor (Dennis Bablet, France, 1991, 145 mins.) traces the career of Poland's legendary genius of the stage and features extraordinary scenes of Kantor at work with his dedicated troupe of actors, Cricot 2. In Persian, French, and English with English subtitles.

Nasser Taghvai/Dennis Bablet---Iran/France---2005/1991---211 mins.

• Facets
• Release Date: 05/31/2011