The inaugural event of Poems & A Movie (a brand new series combining film, writing, and community) will take place on August 8th, 6:30-10pm, at Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture (3645 Lancaster Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104) with the Philadelphia premiere of Sometimes I Dream in Farsi, an award-winning film by indie filmmaker Dr. Pirooz Kalayeh, along with readings by three literary superstars: Porochista Khakpour (author of Tehrangeles, 2024), Alina Pleskova (author of Toska, 2023), and Violet Gehringer (author of I Love You It, Looks Like Rain, 2017).

Co-presented by Be About It Press with Cannonball and Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture, the event weaves personal and political intersections into an exploration of identity, expression, and cultural bonds. Sometimes I Dream in Farsi examines a traumatic racist incident in Kalayeh's childhood and examines the role that therapy and discussion offer as a path forward for children and adults who have endured similar encounters. Khakpour, Pleskova, and Gehringer offer intimate readings connecting a wide range of shared experiences. 

This event is also support by Philly Iranians, a coalition of local volunteers advocating for a free Iran alongside the #WomenLifeFreedom revolution. 

Thursday, August 8

Doors at 6:30

Event 7-10pm

Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture

3645 Lancaster Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (ADA accessible)

$10 suggested donation 

No one turned away for lack of funds

Light refreshments will be served.

If you are not able to pay the suggested ticket price but still want to help support this event, please share this post, invite your friends, and simply RSVP and show up! I appreciate you!

**Note: an earlier version of the event listed the location at Plays and Players Theater. The venue has changed to Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture.**