Frankfurt Lab

“The Conference of the Birds” is a striking Sufi allegory about the soul’s quest for knowledge and the courage to embark on this journey.
Written by the Persian poet Farid ud-Din Attar, the work tells of a gathering of birds who set out in search of their elusive king: the Simurgh – a symbol of the Divine, of the highest knowledge and of self-knowledge. Guided by the wise hoopoe, they traverse seven symbolic valleys: Longing, Love, Knowledge, Detachment, Unity, Wonder and, finally, Dissolution into the Beloved – each representing an inner transformation. Many fail along the way, unable to let go of fear, ego or illusions. Those who persevere ultimately realise that the Simurgh they have been seeking is reflected within themselves. Both mystical and profoundly human, this poetic masterpiece reminds us that what we seek in the world often already lies within us – ready to reveal itself through devotion, insight and love. For the first time in Germany, this legendary work comes to life in a powerful stage production that invites today’s audience into Attar’s timeless vision: an evening filled with music, storytelling and reflection on the self, meaning and awakening.