Shab-e Yalda 2025 | An Evening of Music, Storytelling, and Light
On December 20, Farhang Foundation welcomed a sold-out audience to UCLA’s Schoenberg Hall for Farhang Foundations' 13th Annual Shab-e Yalda Concert, an evening inspired by Iran’s longest night and the enduring triumph of light over darkness. The program featured Voices Unveiled, under the direction of composer and santour master Ehsan Matoori, with powerful performances by vocalists Maliheh Moradi and Mina Deris, expressive dance by Tara Pandeya, and an exceptional ensemble of award-winning musicians. The night was further illuminated by the presence of Gordafarid, Iran's first female epic storyteller (Naghal), who returned to the Farhang Yalda stage for the 13th consecutive year, sharing stories and poetry by some of Iran’s greatest master poets. These images capture moments of sound, movement, and shared reflection, an evening rooted in tradition yet alive with contemporary expression. Together, music, storytelling, and community came together to honor Shab-e Yalda as a living cultural ritual. Thank you to all who joined us and helped make this celebration one to remember. May light always prevail over darkness.
All photos by Vafa Khatami.
