Draft:Houman Memarpanahi
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Houman Memarpanahi is an Iranian cultural manager, artistic director, and entrepreneur known for founding Emarat RooBeRoo (RooBeRoo Mansion), an independent multidisciplinary art center in Tehran.[1][2] As a cultural producer, he has been instrumental in bringing international neoclassical and contemporary musicians to Iran, facilitating major performances in Tehran and Shiraz.
Houman Memarpanahi | |
|---|---|
 Portrait of Houman Memarpanahi | |
| Occupations | Cultural Manager, Artistic Director, Entrepreneur |
| Years active | 2016–present |
| Known for | Founder of Emarat RooBeRoo; International Concert Producer |
Career and Emarat RooBeRoo
In December 2016, Memarpanahi established Emarat RooBeRoo in a historic building near Tehran's Vali-e-Asr district. The center operates as a private cultural institution featuring a theater platform, art gallery, bookstore, and café.[3] He later expanded the brand by opening a second branch in the Tajrish neighborhood of northern Tehran.
Memarpanahi has been a vocal advocate for the economic sustainability of private cultural institutions in Iran, discussing these challenges in national publications such as Arman Meli.[4]
International Concert Productions
Under the management of RooBeRoo Mansion, Memarpanahi has produced several high-profile concerts featuring international artists:
- Ólafur Arnalds: Produced the Icelandic composer's first concert in Tehran in December 2017.[5]
- Evgeny Grinko: Managed the Russian pianist’s performance in Tehran in 2019.[6]
- Sebastian Plano: Produced the "In Between Worlds" concert series featuring the Argentinian cellist and composer in Tehran.[7]
- Federico Albanese: Organized the Italian pianist's performance of "The Blue Hour" in Shiraz.[8]
International Presence
In May 2017, Memarpanahi facilitated the "Theatricultural Exchange Program" in partnership with the Bohemi Theater Group, hosting international artists during the Iran International University Theater Festival.[9][10]
In May 2023, he represented RooBeRoo Mansion at the Volksbühne in Berlin during the "Artistic Work in Exile" panel, a side event of the Theatertreffen festival.[11]
Legal Issues
As a director of an independent cultural space, Memarpanahi has faced several regulatory challenges. In March 2025 (Esfand 1403), he was detained by security forces following a musical performance at RooBeRoo Mansion.[12][13] His subsequent release on bail was reported by outlets such as Shargh Daily and Aasoo.[14][15]