By Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 3/24/26 – Desert Legends Women’s Weekend continues to expand its vibrant, inclusive programming with a deeply meaningful and creative offering: a Sapphic Poetry Workshop and Reading led by author, poet, and teacher Dr. Susan Detlefsen.
During a our Zoom interview with The Hollywood Times, Dr. Detlefsen shared her excitement about returning to Desert Legends, an event founded by local rock icon Jennifer Corday that has become a cornerstone celebration of music, connection, and community for women.
“I’m so excited for another year of Desert Legends,” Detlefsen shared. “I’m honored that she invited me to be part of this by doing a sapphic poetry workshop. This year is going to be a little more interactive, and I can’t wait for the weekend.”
Taking place Friday, April 3rd from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Hotel Zoso, the workshop promises to be more than just a reading, it’s an immersive, participatory experience designed to unlock creativity.
Detlefsen will be joined by an impressive lineup of poets including Kathy Sison, Susan Rukheiser, and Eleanor Whitney. Together, they will share poetry, discuss what inspires their work, and invite attendees to participate in a welcoming and creative environment.
“I believe that inside each one of us, there’s an inner poet just waiting to be unleashed,” Detlefsen said.
A highlight of the workshop will be her mysterious “poetry jar,” filled with prompts designed to spark spontaneous writing and creative exploration. Attendees will also have the opportunity to write, share, and connect with others through guided exercises.
Detlefsen’s work is deeply influenced by her global experiences and academic background in French literature and feminist poetry. She plans to open the workshop with a powerful piece inspired by her time at the International Queer Tango Festival in Buenos Aires.
“The poem came to me at three in the morning, in Spanish and English,” she shared. “It was an incredible experience that just flowed through me.”
She may also draw inspiration from iconic poets such as Sappho, Renée Vivien, Adrienne Rich, and Mary Oliver, bridging generations of poetic voices and celebrating sapphic storytelling across time.
At the heart of the workshop is a powerful mission: to amplify LGBTQ+ voices and create space for authentic self-expression.
“There’s so much literature out there, but not enough LGBTQ literature,” Detlefsen explained. “This is where we express who we are and connect with each other.”
Desert Legends, known for its mix of music, sports, and social events, intentionally includes creative and reflective offerings like this workshop to ensure there is something for everyone.
“Not all of us want to play golf or pickleball,” she added. “Some of us want to come and hear poetry.”
For those who may feel intimidated by writing, Detlefsen emphasizes that no experience is necessary.
“The most important thing is giving yourself permission, and having the time,” she said. “Writing starts with looking, feeling, and expressing your reaction.”
Through guided prompts, visual inspiration, and a supportive group setting, participants will be encouraged to explore their creativity freely.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a journal, a favorite poem, especially by a lesbian poet, or simply an open mind and willingness to participate.
While Detlefsen maintains a limited online presence, she encourages attendees to connect in person. Books by participating poets will be available at the workshop, offering a unique opportunity to engage directly with their work.
“We’ll have everything there,” she said. “That’s really the best way to get to know us, just come to the workshop.”
As Desert Legends continues to grow, offerings like the Sapphic Poetry Workshop highlight the event’s commitment to diversity, creativity, and authentic connection.
From high-energy performances to intimate, inspiring moments like this, Desert Legends is more than an event, it’s a celebration of community, storytelling, and shared experience.
With voices like Dr. Susan Detlefsen leading the way, the power of poetry, and queer storytelling, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Event Details
Sapphic Poetry Workshop & Reading
Hotel Zoso, Palm Springs
Friday, April 3, 2026
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
For tickets and more information, visit: www.desertlegends.net
