Gardan Ensemble presents a fascinating encounter between the ancient traditions of Persian music and a contemporary artistic vision.
Drawing on the rich modal systems, refined rhythmic patterns, and poetic foundations of Persian classical music, the ensemble creates a sound world in which composition and improvisation are in constant dialogue.
Their music embodies the freedom and flexibility that have characterized this tradition for centuries, while exploring new expressive possibilities.

At the heart of the ensemble is the award-winning Iranian vocalist Mehdi Emami, internationally acclaimed for his masterful interpretations of the Persian classical repertoire and his exceptional musical sensitivity.
Alongside him, Saina Zamanian, a virtuoso performer on the târ and setâr, musicologist, and researcher, approaches the rich heritage of Persian music with a fresh and personal voice.
Together, they shape a musical journey where poetry, melody, and emotion merge seamlessly.

The warm, contemplative sound of Tristan Driessens’ oud and the expressive kamancheh of Sara Hasti enrich this refined musical dialogue between diverse cultural and artistic backgrounds.
Gardan Ensemble demonstrates how centuries-old Persian melodies and rhythms continue to inspire, move, and reinvent themselves today.
A concert filled with virtuosity, imagination, and contemplation, building bridges between generations, cultures, and musical worlds.

Mehdi Emani : vocals
Saina Zamanian tar, setar
Tristan Driessens : oud
Sara Hasti : kamantcheh

Performing Arts Research and Training Studios

P.A.R.T.S is one of the most renowned contemporary dance schools in the world. Founded in 1995 by Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker, it has firmly placed Brussels, and Belgium, on the map of cities that matter when it comes to dance.

Within these walls, they don’t just train dancers. They train artists. The school makes no distinction between the dancer and the choreographer. Every student learns to create, to perform, to dance. Here, dance is never an isolated discipline. It speaks with music, theatre, writing and critical thought. Students come rushing in from every corner of the world to train in Forest. They make Brussels their home for a few years, then move on to the world’s greatest stages.

For one concert, the Hide & Seek Festival throws open the doors of contemporary dance’s inner sanctum.