​ Bring back poetry nights!

​Shab-e sher is returning on October 22nd for one night​, at Yalda Sepahpour's art show and book launch. We invite you to bring a poem, song, or any writing close to your heart, or simply bring your listening ears and care.

​A Gathering of Words and Souls

​Poetry has always been a vessel for memory, connection, and truth. Across time, it has gathered people from every walk of life to sit together, listen deeply, and remember what truly matters.

​In Iranian culture, nights of poetry have long been sacred rituals - moments of candlelight, music, and verse shared among friends and strangers alike. For centuries, people have recited Hafez, Rumi, and countless unnamed poets whose words opened the heart to divine mysteries and human tenderness.

​This gathering continues that tradition - a space to share, listen, and connect through poetry and mysticism. Bring the poem you’ve been holding close, or simply come to listen and be moved. Whether in Persian, English, Arabic, or any other language, all poetry is welcome here.

​Come as you are. Leave a little more illuminated.

​​Tickets & Participation

​Tickets are sliding scale $5-$15. Contribute what you can, and know that your presence is just as valued as your donation. All proceeds go toward supporting shab-e sher and its organizers. sustaining future gatherings and supporting these community spaces.

​We also offer free tickets (NOTAFLOF) for each event for those who wouldn't otherwise be able to join us.

​​Open Mic

​We encourage you to bring a poem, song, piece of writing, or even a jounral entry to share. Open mic sign-ups to share poetry will be first come, first served upon arrival. Whether you’re sharing your own poem, a favorite verse, or piece of song or music, we welcome you to take part in the night’s circle of words. If you plan to share something, please keep your piece within a 5-minute time limit so we may accommodate everyone who wishes to speak.

​​With Love & Gratitude,

​This gathering is lovingly curated by queer Iranians, continuing a lineage of poetic and cultural spaces rooted in care, courage, and collective expression. We hold this as a safe and affirming space for all - especially for queer, trans, BIPOC and diasporic voices. Come with openness, respect, and reverence for each other’s words and presence.

​This event is brought to you by Helia aka Big Dill Kitchen, and Astralab. If you love to see this kind of programming, please consider sending a donation on venmo @heliarose.