CORVALLIS - Persian history and culture will be explored as Oregon State University hosts Persian Night '97 on Sunday, April 20.

The festivities start at 5 p.m. in OSU's Memorial Union East International Forum and the evening will include live performances, dinner, speakers, a tea service and dancing. Tickets are $5 in advance and $6 at the door. For information, contact OSU Student Involvement at 541-737-6342.

The event is sponsored by OSU's Persian Student Association and has the potential to be one of OSU's best cultural nights of the year, said Peg Douthit, Student Involvement leadership development coordinator.

There will be a slide show, then live music performances during dinner. Following the meal will be a presentation of Persian history and culture, said Ensieh Biria, Persian Student Association president.

"With this event, we would like to introduce the history and hospitality of Persian culture," Biria said. "By seeing the Persian Night displays and live performances, and by sampling traditional Persian food and dessert, our guests will gain insight into the culture of Iran.

"At the end of the three-hour formal program, we will bring people up on the stage and teach our guests Persian dances. We plan to keep dancing until 10 p.m.," Biria said.

Source: 

Ensieh Biria, 541-754-6310

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