Musical influence has never and can never be limited by the borders of nations. The far-reaching effect of the arts has created crossover music, with artists adopting elements of each other’s musical traditions. During this concert series, audiences will hear different cultural and artistic linkages across and between the banned nations and the West. The March 16th event features Sudanese musician Tarawa with Seoulstice, Iranian musician Emad Bonakdar with flamenco dancer Mizuho Sato, and Venezuelan-flamenco group Trio Caminos.
March 16th Program
SUDAN: Tarawa ft. Seoulstice Sudanese Roots, Global Expressions Tarawa – ukelele, calabash drum, ngoni, Sudanese bongos Seoulstice – guitar, loop and effect pedal
IRAN: Emad Bonakdar & Mizuho Sato Persian Music Meets Flamenco Emad Bonakdar – tar, tanbur, guitar Mizuho Sato – flamenco dance
VENEZUELA: Trio Caminos Venezuelan Grooves in California Carlos Caminos – acoustic guitar Marlon Aldana – cajón flamenco, bongo Angelo Tomandl – harmonicas
About Music of the Banned
Since January 27, 2017, President Trump has issued three travel bans to citizens from countries deemed by his administration: Chad, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, North Korea, and Venezuela. In the face of the president’s travel ban, Music of the Banned (MOTB) seeks to build a sonic bridge between peoples. The ten countries of the ban are a source of rich music and art that we can explore in a journey of peace and understanding.
Art will break down the barriers that isolate us — the barriers that either governments or media have worked hard to create. We are inviting the artistic ambassadors of these countries to lay down the drawbridge to their countries’ soundscape and beauty, and invite us all in.
So many have been suffering from a lack of understanding and from this travel ban in particular. Let’s stand to welcome the culture of the unknown, make ourselves aware of those that came to this country for a better life just as our ancestors. This concert series will give voice to musicians from the Banned Nations, breaking the barriers of fear and ignorance by responding with love, peace, and empowerment.
MOTB was first incubated by Dina Zarif, an Iranian artist, during a Mission Arts & Performance Project (MAPP) event at Red Poppy Art House on August 5, 2017. Its success inspired a concert at Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in June 2018. In 2019, with support from the California Arts Council, San Francisco Arts Commission, and Red Poppy Art House, Zarif as lead artist will organize three interdisciplinary concerts, an exploration of performing and visual arts, which feature artists from the countries on President Trump’s travel ban. The three concerts will take place on March 16 (Borders without Bans), April 7 (Sacred and Traditional Music of the Banned), and in May (Her Banned Voice).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
EVENT TIME
When should I arrive?Doors open 30 minutes before the scheduled performance time. For example, if the show is scheduled to start at 7:30pm, the doors will open at 7:00pm. If the show is scheduled to start at 8:00pm, the doors will open at 7:30pm, and so on.
TICKETING & ADMISSION
If an event is sold out online, could I still purchase tickets?Unless otherwise noted, a limited number of tickets will be available for purchase at the door. Guests may buy tickets 30 minutes before the scheduled performance time when doors open. Please note that the quantity available may vary depending on capacity and online sales.
Does purchasing an advance ticket guarantee seating?Purchasing an advance ticket guarantees admission, but does not guarantee seats. Seating is first come, first served.
Does the Poppy accept debit or credit cards?Yes, we accept all major credit cards for ticket sales, concessions, and donations.
What's the refund policy?Refunds are only available in the event of a cancelled performance.
Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event? Is there a discount for children?No, this event is all ages. However, refreshments will be served at the concessions counter. Children 10 and under receive free general admission.
Where are my tickets?Your tickets will be emailed to you as a PDF attachment from Eventbrite on behalf of the Red Poppy, or you may access them in the Eventbrite app. If you do not see your order confirmation in your inbox, make sure to check your junk/spam folder. Enter your email address here if you can’t find them, you’re having trouble printing, or if you’re not sure if you have an Eventbrite account. For all other technical issues, you can find help here.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?You may bring your printed ticket or show your ticket on your phone. There will be no tickets available for pick up at Will Call.
Is it ok if the name on my ticket or registration doesn't match the person who attends?Yes, you’re welcome to purchase tickets for someone else.
VENUE & LOCATION
Is the space ADA accessible?Yes, there is a ramp at our 23rd St entrance.
What kind of seating do you have available?For most of our events we have folding chairs and a few couches available.
What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?Street parking is available but can be limited around the Red Poppy. We encourage you to take public transportation whenever possible. Several MUNI lines run close to the Red Poppy, and the 24th St. Mission BART station is just under half a mile away.
What can I bring into the event?Guests are welcome to bring food. Beverages are available by suggested donation. We recommend bringing collapsible strollers, if possible.
How can I donate to the Poppy?You may bring cash, check, debit or credit card, or donate online at http://redpoppyarthouse.org/participate/give/.
Where can I grab a bite to eat?Nearby places include El Farolito, Taqueria Vallarta, Basa Seafood Express (sushi), and Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine. For more options, click here.
How can I contact the organizer with any questions?You can reach us at
[email protected] or give us a call at (650) 713-5383.