gisht

Gisht is a traditional form of storytelling and entertainment that originated in the Middle East, particularly in the regions of Iran, Iraq, and Turkey. It is a blend of storytelling, music, and dance, often performed by a group of performers known as a gish band. The term "gisht" itself is derived from the Persian word "gish," which means "to dance."

Gisht performances typically involve a leader who narrates a story, often a historical or mythological tale, while the rest of the group dances and sings in response. The leader's storytelling is accompanied by a rhythmic beat, usually played on a drum or other percussion instruments. The dancers and singers respond to the leader's narrative with movements and songs that reflect the emotions and events of the story.

The music in gisht is characterized by its use of traditional instruments such as the tar, setar, and santur, along with vocals that often incorporate improvisation and call-and-response elements. The dance styles can vary widely, from energetic and acrobatic movements to more subtle and expressive gestures.

Gisht has been an important cultural tradition for centuries, preserving and transmitting stories, values, and artistic techniques from one generation to the next. It continues to be performed in various forms today, both as a form of entertainment and as a means of cultural preservation.