The Man Behind Cabaret
Before the 1979 Revolution, Tehran was often described as the “Paris of the Middle East” — a city alive with music, fashion, and artistic experimentation. Cabarets such as Miami, Moulin Rouge, and Shahr-e-Farang were hubs of this creative energy. They were places where East met West — Persian music shared the stage with jazz, funk, and European pop influences. Mahmoud Ghorbani’s Cabaret Miami was among the most famous of these venues. Located in one of Tehran’s lively entertainment districts, it attracted not only everyday citizens but also celebrities, diplomats, and members of the upper class.
The cabaret featured live music, dance, and performances from most celebrated stars — and it became a symbol of the modern, cosmopolitan identity of pre-revolutionary.As a music promoter, Ghorbani worked closely with some of the biggest names in the entertainment world. He was known for recognizing talent early and for providing artists with opportunities to perform in professional, glamorous settings. His collaboration with Googoosh, who later became one of the most iconic singers in the Persian-speaking world, marked a key moment in his career.
