Iraj Rad Information

Iraj Rad, born Akbar Hasani Rad, was born on April 27, 1945, in Amiriyeh Street, Tehran. He is one of the most prominent actors in Iranian theater, television, and cinema, earning a distinguished position in the performing arts through his impactful performances.

Early Life and Education

Iraj Rad was born into an artistic and culturally rich family. He spent his childhood and adolescence immersed in the arts and was introduced to the world of theater at an early age. His artistic journey began in 1958 when he participated in children’s plays.

In 1959, he attended courses on acting and speech under Mehin Deyhim, one of the most prominent theater instructors of the time. These trainings paved the way for his professional debut. His first semi-professional performance was in 1963 with the play Roulette for Death, directed by Kamal al-Din Shafiei, performed at the Farhang Hall.

Iraj Rad pursued higher education in the arts, earning the following degrees:

• Bachelor’s in Dramatic Arts: Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Tehran
• Master’s in Theater Directing: Cardiff University, Wales

Artistic Career

Theater

Iraj Rad has been a key figure in Iranian theater, playing pivotal roles in numerous acclaimed productions. Some of his most notable works include:

• Ariadne of Naxos
• The Glorious Smile of Mr. Gil
• The Dead Without Coffins
• Aghazadeh’s Quill
• The Black Man in Foreign Lands

Cinema

Rad has appeared in significant Iranian films over the decades, including:

• The Postman
• The Cycle (Dayereh Mina)
• The Tenants (Ejareh-Neshinha)
• Jafar Khan Returns from Abroad

Television

His roles in iconic television series have made him a beloved figure among Iranian audiences. Some of his notable TV works include:

• Hezar Dastan (The Legend of Hezar Dastan)
• Mokhtarnameh
• Zero Degree Turn (Madar-e Sefr Darajeh)
• Brighter Than Darkness (Roshan-Tar Az Khamooshi)

Educational and Managerial Contributions

Beyond acting, Iraj Rad has significantly contributed to education and cultural management:

• Teaching at the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, and the Faculty of Cinema and Theater
• Member of the Supreme Council of the Iranian Theater House
• Managing Director of the Iranian Theater House since 2008
• Training new generations of performing artists at the Maktabkhaneh-e Honar (Art Academy)

Awards and Recognitions

• Awarded the First-Degree Artistic Badge by the Iranian Council for Artistic Accreditation
• Recipient of numerous awards from domestic and international festivals