A comparison of Elements in Performing Naqqali (Iranian Dramatic Storytelling) and Ta’zieh (Shi’ites Passion play/ Condolence Theater)

Naqqali of Shah-nameh (Persian: “Book of Kings”, celebrated work of the epic poet Ferdowsi) and Ta’zieh Khani (which signifies Ta’zieh Drama/ A Ta’zieh production) are considered to be as indigenous arts of Iran which have been widely popular ever since the ancient times. These two kinds of art bring the main elements of a play to the stage all at once and render an artistic and musical report of the historical, religious and heroic battles. The present study is conducted in a descriptive-comparative manner, evaluating the arts of Naqqali & Ta’zieh in terms of performing elements. The two aforementioned arts have similarities such as the dual division of voices, i.e. 1. The various voices of Naqqal (reciter/storyteller) through the drama and 2. division of the actors of Ta'zieh into protagonists & antagonists, generating a unified thematic current regarding the clash of Right & Wrong and Good & Evil, and also scripting the scenes in manuscripts & scrolls. On the other hand, the number of actors, their appearance, wearing special outfits, and Incidental music are considered to be the differences of the two arts. Findings of the study also indicates that Ta’zieh is derived from Naqqali.Ta’zieh Drama, however, has grown in popularity through the flow of religion in its essence, and its final outcome has been improving steadily, and has got a more magnificent display regarding the performing elements compared to Naqqali.