Love’s Universe is Inside You
The inspiration for Love’s Universe is Inside You comes from the poet Rumi, and this musical journey explores profound themes of human existence: home, self-reflection, and freedom.
The creator of this work, Iranian-Australian composer and core actor Vahideh Eisaei, embodies ‘Raavi’ meaning ‘storyteller’ - a messenger who constantly travels, delivering messages, culture, and knowledge, connecting different regions and peoples. In ancient Persia, Raavi held a lofty position, moving hearts with music and poetry, and bringing stories from afar. Raavi’s revisit to Persian culture serves as a bridge between past and present, placing the overall narrative of the performance in a contemporary context. In the ever-changing landscape of contemporary Iran, the resilient spirit of Iranian women shines brightly, demonstrating humanity's universal pursuit of freedom and paving the way for a brighter future of hope and change.
Vahideh Eisaei concept creator, composer, qanun
Zoe Barry cello
Kelly Dowall ney, clarinet, drum
Elnaz Sheshgelani dramaturg, voice, costume design
Michael Kantor Director
Stephen Armstrong Executive Producer
Ziyin Wang Gantner Executive Producer
Jess Zhang Producer
Performance:
Melbourne Recital Centre
12th November 2023
Aranya Theater Festival
24-26th June 2024
Press: Life Magazine China
The Storytellers
The Storytellers, inspired by the practices of rug-making and its connection to music and storytelling. Growing up with Kerman carpets in my home, I was drawn to their patterns and the concept of “pattern singing,” a form of expression tied to weaving. Central to this process is the loom—a symbol of both structure and liberation. Women, often isolated while weaving, sing stories and melodies, each thread representing a unique narrative.
The loom in this installation transcends its traditional purpose, becoming a powerful metaphor for women’s creativity, legacy, and strength. Historically associated with women’s work and craftsmanship, the loom reflects a space where individual and communal stories intersect. Each thread, each knot, becomes a testament to personal and shared histories, capturing the joys, sorrows, and resilience of its weaver.
Plaited hair, an integral element of the installation, represents individual journeys and collective memory. Hair, as a cultural and emotional symbol, speaks to identity, autonomy, and transformation. Cascading from the loom, it mirrors the act of storytelling—intimate, intricate, and enduring. The process of plaiting evokes care and connection, reflecting the way women’s stories intertwine to form a shared tapestry of resilience and heritage.
Poetic Reflection:
A plait of patterns, woven deep,
beauty intertwined with pain.
Joy and sorrow dance together,
threads of suffering, threads of joy.
A carpet of stories, songs of life,
each thread a testament,
capturing the essence of being.
In every twist, a heartbeat echoes,
In every knot, a memory resides.
The vibrant hues of laughter,
the muted shades of grief,
While whispers of heartache linger,
A plait that holds us, binds us.
– Vahideh Eisaei
Vahideh Eisaei, voice & qanun
Elnaz Sheshgelani, dancer
Issie Hart, voice
Performance:
16 November 2024
An Astra Concerts Commissioned work