MARRS supporting Iranian musicians at WOMAD

Musicians Nasim Heidari and Omid Shir Mohammadi fled from protests and violence in Iran to Belfast over a year ago. In the wake of this traumatic move, Beyond Skin's Musicians Artists at Risk Resettlement Scheme (MARRS) helped them to find their feet. This coming weekend, they will be performing at WOMAD for the first time, a massive recognition of both their talent and MARRS' ability to support its musicians.

While she is also a trained architect, Heidari's voice is what guides her. Her decision to leave Iran was largely based on a desire to pursue her singing. She told the BBC "One of the reasons [I left was] there is no rights for women in Iran and it's so restricted for singing. I wanted to follow my dreams." Her and Omid's performance at WOMAD is a massive step towards that dream attainment. She explained to the arts council of Northern Ireland, ”I thank Omid for helping me as a singer and pushing my creative ability, we are excited about WOMAD and can’t wait to go there."

Mohammadi, who grew up in a musical family and plays piano as well as traditional Iranian instruments, has also found space in Belfast to explore his calling more freely. In his own words to the arts council, "In Iran my future as a musician was dark, now in Belfast it is bright."

Founded in Northern Ireland in 2021 to help Afghan musicians in exile, MARRS has bloomed over the past few years, helping artists seeking sanctuary from many countries. Their initiatives include English lessons, musical instrument donation drives, mental health improvement programmes and much else. Justifiably proud of Heidar, Mohammadi and MARRS itself, the CEO of Beyond Skin, Darren Ferguson, explains to the arts council that the scheme is "a vital lifeline to artists who are facing incredibly difficult circumstances." In conversation with the BBC, he added, "I think this [invitation to WOMAD] sends out a signal that the talent coming to our shores has been recognised at such a high level."

Omid Shir Mohammadi & Nasim Heidari will perform at WOMAD at 2pm on Sunday, July 30. For tickets and info visit WOMAD's website.