Queer Oriental Rotterdam is a cultural queer gathering and entertainment event organized by Stichting Sirkaf. The event provides a platform for cultural exchange, featuring music, dance, and stage performances inspired by motifs from Türkiye, Mesopotamia, and Southwest Asia (in the colonialist terminology the Middle East).
Under the name Queer Oriental, we aim to highlight the existence of queer communities in Türkiye, Mesopotamia, and Southwest Asia drawing attention to their struggle for rights and equality. Additionally, this event pays homage to the culture, entertainment, and oriental dance traditions of these regions: bringing that cultural heritage here and connecting it with the local queer community.
We strive to create a safe space where the LGBTQIA+ community can come together to socialize, enjoy, and build new friendships and connections. Queer Oriental Rotterdam is a hetero friendly event.
*The figure on the poster is Shahmaran: a symbol of feminine power, knowledge, and transformation.