Pishpardeh shows in Iran traditionally involve the use of a large, strong curtain known as a "pardeh." These curtains are painted with stories, often depicting historical events, wars, or epics. The pardeh is used as a backdrop for the performance, with the actor or actors standing in front of it to portray the characters and bring the story to life.

In pishpardeh shows, the actor typically represents a hero. The performance combines elements of theater with visual storytelling on the painted curtain. This form of theater has been used to depict and narrate the stories from the Shahnameh, an epic Persian poem written by Ferdowsi, which is an important literary work in Iranian culture.

These performances, also known as Shahnameh khani, served as a means to entertain and educate audiences by bringing the rich history and mythology of Iran to life through visual and performative storytelling.