file photos, 2005

TEHRAN, Nov. 8 (Mehr News Agency) -- The veteran Iranian performer of siah-bazi Sadi Afshar said that these traditional types of plays should be taught to the younger generation.

"Unfortunately, I do not have the physical ability to teach siah-bazi but I have heard that there are courses at universities in which these styles are taught to students," he told ISNA on Saturday.

Siah-bazi, a type of folk play featuring a blackfaced harlequin who stirs the audience to laughter with amusing improvisations, is very difficult to teach and perhaps only two artists per year learn this art form, he said.

He went on to say that he is surprised by the photo exhibit on his recent play "Colic" that opened on Saturday at the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF).

Entitled "Behind the Mask", a collection of 25 photos taken by Reza Musavi is on display at the exhibit organized to help raise funds for the artist and officials.

He expressed his hope that ritual types of plays would attract more widespread attention by the holding of such exhibits and events.

"Although it was hard for me to play the role in 'Colic', I am very happy that I had an opportunity to participate in this performance. People warmly welcomed the show since they all need a little fun and laughter," he mentioned.

In August 2009, Sadi Afshar starred in the ru-hozi performance of "Colic" by Davud Fat'halibeigi at the Sangelaj Hall.

A photo exhibit featuring Sadi Afshar in his recent play "Colic" was opened at the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF) on Saturday November 7.

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