432 NO-MADS are pleased to present Dancing Through The Reigns of Fire – a thought-provoking new project developed in collaboration with the local Iranian community and creatives.

The duo have collaborated with Somerstown dance group Templar Street Dance, local videographer Jessica Hunt, and Iranian women living in the local community to develop a compelling short film which shines a light on the gender violence and persecution faced by Iranian women and sharing their lived experiences.

Centred around a short dance coordinated by Conor Wood of Templar Street Dance, the film features local Iranian dancer Rozhina, who portrays a young Iranian refugee who is finding herself through the expressive medium of dance and music, having fled Iran due to the human rights abuse and religious persecutions experienced.

Dancing Through The Reigns of Fire is accompanied by poetry inspired by the personal stories of the individuals the organisation works with, aiming to provide a platform for the unheard and underrepresented voices within the Iranian community. The short film will be shared online, and will aim to facilitate the dialogue on human rights and gender violence whilst bringing these pertinent issues to the attention of the local community.

Founded in 2022, 432 NO-MADS champions diversity through the development of activities which celebrate and raise awareness of the diverse cultures and identities in Portsmouth.

The organisation aims to build strong, cohesive communities and reduce prejudice, hate crimes and related incidents by empowering and bringing communities together, and pushing the boundaries of artistic progression.

The Dancing Through The Reigns of Fire project builds on their work within the community by collaborating with local artists in the city and standing in solidarity with local Iranians.

As part of the project launch, 432 Nomads will be hosted Rain of Fire, free celebration event at Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth, where audiences will hade the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive performance of the dance piece, watch a screening of the short film, and hear from guest speakers including local councillors and Iranian nationals who live in Portsmouth.

There was also be performances of poetry, an autistic music set, and the organisation is teasing a very special surprise at the end.

Rozhina, a local Iranian dancer who features in the film says “My eyes are red from the blood of people who died in order for us to live. I feel pain in my heart that as Iranians, our biggest dream is merely to live a normal life. This performance is dedicated to my people and I wish for the people of Iran to keep strong.”

Majid Dhana, founding member of 432 NO-MADS, says “I feel very fortunate and humbled to have this opportunity to not only raise awareness of the issues in Iran but to offer support to the many female voices that have been silenced in all the sadness and tears we have cried. My hope is that with the continued support from the local community here in Portsmouth, we can build on this project to create a legacy that will only promote equality and positivity.”

Majid ends by saying “Let’s all embrace with understanding, hope and compassion, for life is a gift we should cherish.”

Dancing Through The Reigns of Fire has been supported by the Portsmouth City Council Community Grant and Aspex Portsmouth.

The Dancing Through The Reigns of Fire can be viewed at https://youtube.com/@432no-mads