Iranian Treasure

What the Carnival Center for the Performing Arts could use is a really big show by a superdiva -- Celine or Streisand or even Madonna. Instead the joint that would deliver culture to downtown brings in a really big show by a supersuperdiva, namely Iran’s daughter, Googoosh. Goo is more than a Persian version of Babs: She’s beloved in a variety of places, from Tajikistan to Canada to, uh, Miami; a true international star who has sold out stadiums such as Wembly and the Staples Center in Toronto. She’s got chops -- the powerhouse singer has been performing professionally since the age of three, which is more than 50 years. Sort of. One place she isn’t so beloved is Iran, where the Islamic Revolution of 1979 and ensuing authoritarian theocracy silenced her for two decades.

Mehrdad, a popular Persian singer/songwriter in his own right, has become Googoosh’s composer and arranger, collaborating with her to create substantial and rich music. Their first show in Florida kicks into gear at 8:00 p.m. Tickets start at $78. Call 786-249-7000, and check out www.googoosh.com.
Sat., Sept. 15, 8 p.m.