News
See below for news from 2011 and 2010. For older news, see our Archive 2009.
NWS News 2011
New Poetry Titles From Candlestick Press
January 2011
Nottingham's Candlestick Press has three new titles out in February 2011 - Ten Poems about London with an introduction by George Szirtes (and including a new poem by him written especially for this pamphlet), Ten Poems about Tea introduced by Sophie Dahl (PG with milk, no sugar) and, for an entirely schmaltz-free Mother's Day in April, Ten Poems about Mothers featuring poems by Jackie Kay, Benjamin Zephaniah, Gillian Clarke, Maura Dooley and James Reeves, among others. Go to www.candlestickpress.co.uk to read all about them!
Sue Dymoke at the Flying Goose 18 January 2011
Sue Dymoke will be appearing at Poetry at the Flying Goose in Beeston on Tuesday 18 January alongside Lawrence Sail, who recently received a glowing write-up in the Times Literary Supplement.
The evening starts at 7.30pm and entrance is £3.
The Flying Goose Cafe, NG9 1EN.
Kevin Fegan Gets two Nominations for Best Play Award
January 2011
Kevin Fegan's last two plays have both been nominated for the Best New Play Manchester Evening News Theatre Awards 2010.
Fireflies: A Love Story Waiting to Happen was commissioned and produced by The Lowry.
Slave: A Question of Freedom was
commissioned and produced by Feelgood Theatre and performed at The
Lowry (followed by a special performance at The House of Lords).
The winner will be announced in February 2011.
Wayne Burrows Writer in Residence at Nottingham Contemporary
January 2011
Wayne Burrows is starting his residency at Nottingham Contemporary later this month, where he'll be exploring the use of music, film, and technology within the gallery's exhibitions.
He is currently assembling a group to take part in a series of workshop, which are aimed mainly at older writers with any level of experience. If you think you might be interested, get in touch with Saima Kaur at saima@nottinghamcontemporary.org, or phone 0115 948 9783.
NWS News 2010
* * * * *
Word of Mouth, Live Literature for Nottingham
Thursday 9 December 2010, from 7pm
WORD OF MOUTH, Nottingham Writers' Studio's live literature night, returns on Thursday 9 December for the first time since its summer outing to the Lowdham Festival, but this time it will be taking place in the laid-back atmosphere of the Antenna cafe-bar.
The evening features a line up of Nottingham Writers, with a range of genres, including poetry, fiction, and songwriting. The theme for the night is MUSIC, and our guest performer will be the singer-songwriter Jay Hannah Thomas.
Entrance is free and dinner can be ordered in the restaurant up until 7pm, when the programme begins.
The Antenna cafe-restaurant is at 9a Beck Street, NG1 1EQ (http://www.antenna.uk.com/contact/).
About the Writers
Maria Allen’s novel Before
the Earthquake was published by Tindall
Street Press in 2010.
Wayne Burrows is a poet, pundit, and editor of Staple magazine (http://www.leftlion.co.uk/articles.cfm/id/3279)
Nicola Monaghan is the award-winning author of The Killing Jar and Starfishing (http://www.nicolamonaghan.co.uk)
Alyson Stoneman is a poet and literature promoter, and was recently commissioned by Nottingham’s Lyric Lounge.
Angela Barton is working on her second novel and won firstwriter.com’s First Chapter
competition in summer 2010.
Megan Taylor’s novel The Dawning is published by Weathervane Press.
If you'd like to help publicise the event, you can download the flier as a single JPG or a PDF with a sheet of 4 to print out.
The New iPhone App for Independent Cinema
29 November 2010
NWS member Paul Fillingham has just launched a shiny new iPhone app as a follow-up to the redesigned Broadway Cinema website. The app, developed by Loughborough-based Cuttlefish Multimedia in conjunction with Nottingham's Victoria Creative, is the first of its kind for independent cinema in the UK.
The app allows users to 'favourite' films from Broadway's current programme, set reminders, and make bookings. Ratings and reviews can also be posted to the website directly from the app, and these also appear on the large projection screen located in the Broadway Cafe Bar itself.
The social platform developed by Cuttlefish provides a digital space for reviewers, writers, and creative practitioners to discuss Broadway films and events. Audience Development Officer Andy Batson says, "in the future, Broadway will be using their 'bSocial' platform to host discussions with film-makers and screenwriters".
Film reviewers needed - Download the app and get your comments on Broadway's big screen!
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/broadway-cinema/id403215636?mt=8
Paul concludes, "our company is developing several apps that will be of interest to NWS members, including cultural trails relating to our region's famous authors. I would personally be very interested in working with publishers and writers to develop new literary work for reading tablets such as the Apple iPad."
For more info contact Paul Fillingham
Digital Media Producer
Co-Director
Cuttlefish Multimedia
Email paulf@cuttlefish.com
Cathy Grindrod reading at Nottingham Poetry Society, Saturday 27 November 2010 at 2.45pm
NWS member Cathy Grindrod will be reading alongside Lancaster's Carole Coates at the Nottingham Poetry Society on Saturday 27 November. The reading will take place at The Mechanics Institute, 3 North Sherwood Street, Nottingham.
Enquiries to nottinghampoetry@btinternet.com.
Beeston's First International Poetry Festival, 16–28 October 2010
The Beeston Internation Poetry Festival kicks off at 7.30pm on 16 October at the Commercial Inn on Wollaton Road, Beeston (Nottingham) with readings from Derrick Buttress, Sue Dymoke, and Sarah Jackson, and music from the Tony Elwell Trio. There will also be nibbles and drinks from the bar. Entrance: £6.
Find out what else is going on in the programme below.
Festival Programme
CHANGE OF VENUE
Plese note, the programme lists two events (Sheila Smith at 1pm on 18 October and Rosie Garner at 1pm on 25 October) as taking place at Bookwise. Bookwise has since closed, so these events will now be taking place at Beeston Volunteer Centre, Cavendish Lodge, Devonshire Avenue, NG9 1BS (0115 917 8080).
For further information on the Festival, contact John Lucas on 0115 925 1827.
Gothic Horror at the New Writers UK Book Fayre
NWS member Pete Davis will be telling some Gothic Horror at the New Writers UK Book Festival in Nottingham on 15 Oct 2010.
There will also be writers of all kinds of genres taking part, including crime, thrillers, TV, and music.
See the programme and list of speakers here:
http://bit.ly/djdGWp
Richard Goodson at Nottingham Poetry Series
Richard Goodson has been selected to read in the Nottingham Poetry Series this October, alongside Mario Petrucci and Kathleen Bell.
The reading takes place at Atlas Deli, 9 Pelham Street, Nottingham city centre, NG1 2EH, at 7.30pm on 21 October 2010.
Admission is free and refreshments will be available.
Organised by Nottingham Poetry Series with support from Writing East Midlands.
Man Booker Prize Events at Nottingham Libraries
A couple of forthcoming events connected with the Man Booker Prize.
-
Tuesday 12 October 2pm at Beeston LibraryMan Booker Prize Free event. Introduction to shortlisted titles and discussion.
-
Tuesday 12th October 8pm Arnold LibraryMan Booker Prize EventPanel Discussion, wine, live link to award ceremonyTickets £6 (£4 concessions)
Contact sheelagh.gallagher@nottscc.gov.uk for more details.
4-star Review for Chocolateria Hysteria
NWS member Rachael Pennell has received an excellent review for her latest play, Chocolateria Hysteria. Performed at the Lichfield Garrick Studio, A View from behind the Arras described the play as 'compelling' in its depiction of the lives of six women who were instrumental in the French Revolution.
Read the review by Linda Ford here: http://www.behindthearras.com/Reviewspr/reviewsprSeptOct10/chocolate%20LG09-10.html
28 September 2010
Two New Books Launched by John Lucas
John Lucas—critic, poet and publisher or Shoestring Press—will be launching two new books with Five Leaves Publications at 2pm on Saturday 9 October in Bromley House Library, Nottingham.
Next Year Will Be Better (http://bit.ly/cBs0jc) is a memoir of England in the 1950s, and Things to Say (http://bit.ly/d8Yapo) is John's latest collection of poetry.
RSVP to info@fiveleaves.co.uk
NWS Member Paula Rawsthorne Signed up by Usborne
Some months ago the opening chapters of Paula’s young adult thriller The Truth About Celia Frost were chosen to be published in the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Undiscovered Voices Anthology 2010.
She was subsequently taken on by Jo Unwin from Conville and Walsh, who was on the Undiscovered Voices judging panel, and has recently been awarded a two-book deal by Usborne.
The Truth About Celia Frost will be published in Oct 2011.
Nottingham Writers Celebrate the Life of Alan Sillitoe
On Saturday 2 October, from 11am to 5pm at Nottingham City Council House, Nottingham writers will be celebrating the life and work of Alan Sillitoe.
NWS members Cathy Grindrod, Jenny Swann, Aly Stoneman, John Lucas, Nicola Monaghan, James Walker, and Ross Bradshaw will be taking part in the event, with readings, talks, and the launch of a short story competition.
The event has been organised by Five Leaves Press, Nottingham City Council, Nottingham City Libraries, Nottinghamshire Libraries, Bromley House Library, Left Lion, Nottingham Writers’ Studio, The Bookcase in Lowdham, University of Nottingham School of Education, Nottingham Writers’ Club, Writing East Midlands and Shoestring Press in co-operation with Alan’s family.
---
“Whatever people say I am, that's what I'm not.” Celebrating the life of Alan Sillitoe Nottingham City Council House, Market Square, Nottingham 1100am-5.00pm Saturday 2nd October Alan Sillitoe was, however, without argument, Nottingham’s most famous
contemporary writer. He died on 25th April this year aged 82. He had
been given the Freedom of the City in his 80th year. There will be a display of photographs of Alan in the foyer of the Council
House throughout the day , open to all. Day ticket: £5 from The Bookcase in Lowdham (Box Office 0115 9663219) or,
subject to availability, on the door. Tickets cover all or part of the day. Proceeds towards future Alan Sillitoe events and to the Alan Sillitoe statue
fund Advance purchase recommended. “Alan Sillitoe was almost single handedly responsible for a shift in the way
working class characters found themselves represented in literature” DJ Taylor 10.00am Doors open Coffee, stalls, exhibition 11.00am-11.45am Options: 1) A Poet of His Time - Alan Sillitoe As well as being Nottingham’s best known modern novelist, Alan wrote
poetry throughout his career including Without Beer or Bread (1957) and
Poems (1971), written with Ted Hughes and Ruth Fainlight. Jane Bluett,
Jeremy Duffield, Cathy Grindrod and Jenny Swann will be reading from Alan’s
poems, together with other poems inspired by Alan’s writing. Introduced by Aly
Stoneman, Poetry Editor at Left Lion. 2) Alan’s books for children, and books for children set in
Nottingham Gwen Grant Alan wrote a number of books for children, including the Marmalade Jim
series Gwen Grant is from a Nottinghamshire mining family, with several of her books
set in that community, including Private - Keep Out! and The
Revolutionary’s Daughter. 3) Alan Sillitoe on film - A discussion about the four films made of Alan’s work, Loneliness of the
Long Distance Runner, Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, The
Ragman’s Daughter and Counterpoint (based on The
General). 12.00-12.45pm Options 1)
Maps were hugely important to Alan, and he collected them everywhere he went. In this session Simon Rycroft and Stephen Daniels stick to his local travels.
2) What about the others? Alan objected to being described as a
working-class writer but he wrote about the Nottingham working class. John Lucas
will read from and discuss others writing about working class Nottinghamshire,
Philip Callow (Hosanna Man). Les Williamson (Joby) and Walter
Brierley (Means Test Man) while Derrick Buttress, a contemporary of
Alan’s, will read from his own memoirs and poetry about his time in the lace
industry and about growing up in these parts. 12.45pm-1.30pm Light refreshments, bookstalls and informal readings Note: Lunch is not provided We will be joined by The Sheriff of Nottingham, Councillor Penny Griggs, and
The Sheriff’s Lady, Laura Griggs 1.30pm-.1.45pm Nottingham, Alan Sillitoe and Me John Harvey John Harvey is a crime writer whose series of “Resnick” books is set in
Nottingham, and who drew his inspiration from previous Nottingham writers
including Alan Sillitoe and DH Lawrence (and from American crime movies…) 1.50pm-2.40pm Alan Sillitoe and the regional novel DJ Taylor DJ Taylor is chair of the George Orwell Society. His many books include
After the War: the Novel and England since 1945. He has written about
Alan on many occasions, including writing the forward to Alan’s A Start in
Life, recently re-issued as a London Classic . 2.40pm-3.00pm Tea and biscuits 3.10pm-3.50pm David Sillitoe reading from Alan’s work David Sillitoe is a photographer, who provided the photographs for Alan
Sillitoe’s Nottinghamshire. He will also be answering questions about his
father. 4.00pm-4.20pm Launch of Alan Sillitoe short story competition: What would
Arthur Seaton be like today? Nicola Monaghan, Al Needham and James Walker launch a short story competition
with their ideas about the modern day Arthur Seaton. See www.sillitoe.com for details of how to enter. Nicola Monaghan is the author of The Killing Jar, a novel set on the
modern Broxtowe Estate, where she was brought up. Al Needham and James Walker
are from the Left Lion team. 4.30pm-5.00pm “All I want is a good time. Everything else is
propaganda” We close the day with a short set by the acoustic roots band Blue Yonder,
including “Propaganda”, a song inspired by Alan Sillitoe The Exhibition As a guest on BBC's "Desert Island Discs", he said he would choose to take
along an Edith Piaf record, a copy of the RAF navigation manual, and a
communications receiver (for receiving only). Samples of these, plus Alan’s
writing desk, his typewriter, memorabilia, copies of rare first editions and
translations of his work will be on display Future plans The Statue A separate committee has been set up to raise funds for an Alan Sillitoe
statue to be set up near Alan’s place of birth in Lenton Abbey. Part of today’s
entrance fee will go towards their initial fundraising. The group hope to
commission the statue in 2012 and to inaugurate it in 2013, together with a
local community facility in the area. For further details please contact Peter
Usherwood on 07775 511295. Also happening…. Watch out for the Castle Rock specially brewed Alan Sillitoe beer! Friday 1st October 2.00pm-3.30pm Readings from Alan Sillitoe’s work West Bridgford Library, Bridgford Road, West Bridgford NG2 6AT Join Sheelagh Gallagher and friends for some informal readings from Alan’s
work Free, no ticket required Tea and biscuits provided
National Poetry Day Reading: Home Is Best
NWS members Jenny Swann, Jacek Laskowski, Alyson Stoneman,
and Robin Vaughan-Williams will be joining Candlestick Press in
Waterstones on 7 October to celebrate this year's theme for National
Poetry Day: 'Home'.
6.30–8.00pm on Thursday 7 October at Waterstone’s, Bridlesmith Gate, Nottingham, with homely drinks and nibbles
Candlestick
Press and Waterstone’s invite you to join us for a reading of poems
based on this year’s National Poetry Day theme, ‘Home’. Whether home
means pyjamas and slippers, aprons and wooden spoons, your country of
origin or just feeling at home in your own skin, please join us for an
exploration of the meaning of ‘Home’ in poetry. Includes poems by Elaine
Feinstein, Jacob Polley, U.A Fanthorpe, Tariq Latif and Edward Thomas.
If you have a favourite poem about ‘Home’, whether by yourself or
another author, please bring it along.
Free Entry.
Ann Featherstone at Waterstones
NWS member Ann Featherstone will be appearing in Waterstones Nottingham and Derby this September with her new book, The Newgate Jig.
Nottingham 11–17 September 2010, 12–2pm
Derby 18 September 2010, 12–2pm
Opportunity
NWS Member Anne Holloway: I'm workng with a charity in Leicester who are setting up 2 web sites for children born HIV positive - the sites will be designed for use by 9-11 year olds and 11-19 yrs - they have funding for setting up the web sites but not enough to pay writers - I'm helping write copy for the older age group site - but they are looking for a writer or writers to devise/write some books designed to educate the children about their condition (some of them have not been told what their diagnosis is, why they have to take medication, visit hospital etc) if any members think they could help with this - there is NO FEE I'm afraid - I have no experience of writing for young children but have offered to put out a call to see if anyone out there would be willing to help.
Please contact: anneholloway@btinternet.com
Candlestick Press Appoint Co-director
CANDLESTICK Press, the independent publisher praised by Carol Ann Duffy for its fresh approach to delivering poetry, is gearing up for expansion following a surge in orders for its greeting pamphlets.
The Nottingham-based press has appointed Di Slaney, who has experience of running a marketing company, as co-director charged with overseeing the continued growth of the business.
Di, who is completing Nottingham Trent University's MA in Creative Writing, said joining Candlestick Press meant that she could use her business skills in the service of poetry.
The company was founded in 2008 by poetry editor Jenny Swann who felt that the art form had lost its wide appeal and wanted to find a way of bringing it back into mainstream life. She came up with the idea of sending friends and family poetry pamphlets instead of greeting cards which would be 'suitable for a read on the train' and 'might add depth and thoughtfulness to a busy day'.
Candlestick's first four pamphlets sold out within three months.
The independent press now employs a distributor and has more than a dozen pamphlets - with titles such as Ten Poems about Bicycles and Ten Poems about Puddings - either in print or awaiting publication. The pamphlets come in an envelope and have a blank bookmark for greetings messages. The next collection, Ten Poems about Tea, includes a foreword by Sophie Dahl and poems that have been chosen by Picador poet Lorraine Mariner.
Candlestick Press employs freelance researchers to ensure the pamphlets include the best poems. The Poet Laureate said the enterprise was 'the most original way of delivering poetry since Poems on the Underground'.
For further information, including photos and interview opportunities please contact Jenny Swann:
Candlestick Press, 21 Devonshire Avenue, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1BS
Tel: 07500 180 871 Email: candlestickpress@yahoo.co.uk
NWS Member Offered Worldwide Publishing Deal from Piatkus
NWS member Joanna Danks has been offered a worldwide publishing deal from Piatkus for her book, "In The Blender". Her work was selected for an agent interview at the Writing Industries Conference 2010 with Oli Munson of Blake Friedmann Literary, TV and Film Agency, who is now her agent.
The book is creative non-fiction - a humorous guide to blending families, aimed at single mothers who are setting up home with single fathers.
NWS Presents Word of Mouth at Lowdham Book Festival 2010 on Saturday 26th June 2.30pm
Word of Mouth will be curated by Nicola Monaghan in The Methodist Chapel, Main Street, Lowdham and is part of a full day of free literature events and talks, including a book fair and childrens' entertainment area running from 10am -5pm.
The NWS readings include work by: Georgina Lock, Francis Thimann (read by Sylvia Robson), Richard Pilgrim, Liz Babbs, Aly Stoneman, Matthew Welton and Roberta Dewa.
Elsewhere during the day, NWS member Maria Allen will be reading from her debut novel, Before The Earthquake, John Lucas will be exploring Social History, Rob Hann will be presenting his book SAS Operation Galia and may even work in a mention of the childrens books too (The Grumbegroar and other stories), and Pewter Rose Press (Anne McDonnell) and Weathervane Press (Ian Collinson) will be (respectively) discussing the art of the short story and introducing several authors including our very own Megan Taylor. The entire two week event is organised - in collaboration with Jane Streeter from The Bookcase - by NWS's tenant Ross Bradshaw from Five Leaves Press, so NWS members are once again playing a big part in this fantastic local Literature event.
For more a full programme, general information and directions, please visit: www.lowdhambookfestival.co.uk
Comedy Sketch Writers Needed
NWS Member Marcus Clarke is looking for at least 3 decent jokes/Sketches - needed by end of July for his new ventriloquist act.
No money but............. I hope to perform the Act around developing it. I have performed Edinburgh Comedy Fest and have TV Contacts so its an opportunity for someone looking to break in and out or just to see some of their stuff performed. I might record and YouTube it too.
Presently the Act is me with a Cute Alien Puppet who Makes loveable and cute almost baby noises but who's dialogue when translated through an Alien interpreter, in harsh low voice is Bitter, Angry and Twisted but funny and incisive. He just doesn't like our Planet or us. The Alien also thinks I'm a Twat! (There is a long queue in agreement and I know anyway)
If anyone is interested then please e-mail me three jokes/sketches end of July.
I've attached a Photo, sorry but I have to look entertained in it!”
Contact: marcus.hup@btinternet.com
Rob Hann at Lowdham
For my sins I am speaking at the Lowdham book festival on the last day June 26th 4.00pm-4.45pm about my book SAS Operation Galia and may even work in a mention of the childrens books too (the Grumbegroar and other stories). I do hope some of you can come along and make it a good, well attended session. Heckling and banter is definately allowed. Tell your friends and bring them too. see link below. Regards, Rob
http://www.lowdhambookfestival.co.uk/Hann.php
Next week sees the start of the Derbyshire Literature Festival fortnight.
We've got some great events taking place across the county including the chance to meet and hear some fantastic poets, and take part in workshops and other activities.
Join Derbyshire Poet Laureate, Ann Atkinson for a relaxing poetry walk around Dovedale on Thurs 3 June, 6.30-8pm. She'll be sharing some of her favourite poems inspired by the landscape, and you can bring and share one of your poems too. Meet in the main Dovedale car park.
Bernardine Evaristo will be appearing, along with the novelist Kachi A Ozumba, at Chesterfield Library on Fri 4 June, 2.15-4pm. Bernardine has written four books including Lara a moving .
Dorothea Smartt will be answering questions about her work and reading from her collection Ship Shape on Thurs 3 June, 2.30-3.30pm at Dronfield Library and 7-8.30pm at Strutts North Mill, Belper.
If you're interested in writing poetry Linda France will be running a free renga poetry workshop on Mon 7 June, 10am-5pm at Ashbourne Library. It doesn't matter if you haven't written poetry or renga before, you'll be made very welcome.
In the evening artist Alec Finlay will be launching his latest book white peak | dark peak, which includes many renga poems used to compose a word-map of the Peak District National Park
Not sure what to read next? then join poet and writer Cathy Grindrod and Book Doctor Priscilla Baily for a chat about books and reading at the Book Café on Tues 8 June, 10.30am-12noon at Aston-on-Trent Village Hall.
Join Derbyshire based poet Jane Weir at Chesterfield Library on Wed 9 June, 7.30-9pm. Jane has won several poetry prizes and has written extensively about Derbyshire. Her latest collection is based on the lives of women in the Italian Renaissance, Gazehound.
Sheffield poet and songwriter Sally Goldsmith, will be reading some of her own poems, and talking about her life as a poet at Codnor Methodist Church on Wed 9 June, 7.30-9pm…she may even sing a song or two. To book tickets for this event ring 01773 742 046.
Join us for a musical celebration of Derbyshire at the Mills and Chimneys concerts. Six Derbyshire based musicians David Gibb, Mike Smith, Sarah Matthews, Lucy Ward, Elly Lucas and Julian Butt - have been working together to write new songs celebrating the history and heritage of Derbyshire. The songs will be available on a special Mills and Chimneys: songs of Derbyshire CD, and are being performed at a series of acoustic concerts taking place on:
4th June , 6:30-7:30pm at Creswell Crags
5th June, 11.45am-12.30pm at Chesterfield Library
9th June, 4-5pm at Sandiacre Library
13th June, 1:30-2:30pm at Buxton Museum & Art Gallery
13th June, 4:30-5:30pm at Waltham House, Wirksworth
If you fancy something completely different have a go at the Great Shakespearean workout! A fun aerobics-style class moving to the beat of Shakespeare's iambic pentameter and inspired by Troilus and Cressida.
Thurs 3 June, 10.30-11.30am at Whaley Bridge Uniting Church
Thurs 3 June, 3.30-4.30pm at Ilkeston Library
Tues 8 June, 10.30-11.30am at Eckington Library
Cathy Grindrod and Ann Atkinson will be Celebrating Poetry at Shipley Country Park, Heanor on Sun 6 June, 1-5pm. There'll be lots of activities including storytelling and rhythm and rhyme sessions for all the family, and the chance to help us create a special poetry tree.
Families can alo spend a day the Potty Poet's way with Gez Walsh at Grassmoor Community Centre on Thurs 3 June, 10.30am-12noon.
For full details of the all Festival events visit: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/festival or www.Facebook.com/DerbyshireLitFest
You can pick up a Festival brochure or book tickets tickets for events at any Derbyshire Library or Call Derbyshire 08 456 058 058
You can also follow Matt Black, Twitter writer in residence or take part in our Twitter poetry competitions by visiting: www.twitter.com/litfesttwitfest
Performance Workshop: How to Perform your Writing
with Pete Davis
Saturday June 12th 2010 10.30am-12.30pm
Learn to perform your writing and shine at readings! All writers have to perform or read their work at events, and all too often a strong piece of work suffers from a quiet voice, mumbling or nervousness. Pete Davis from Storytellers of Nottingham will help you sparkle with some top tips and useful techniques in this 2 hour workshop at Nottingham Writers' Studio.
http://sfs.org.uk/storyteller/pete-davis/
http://www.petedavisstories.co.uk/default.html
Fee: £1 to NWS Members, £5 to Non-members (priority given to members for this event). Event Free to NWS Members performing at the next Word of Mouth event in June at Lowdham. As the full list of readers for that event has not yet been released for WOM, please sign up anyway if you would like to improve your performance skills and I will contact you by June 7th to confirm your place. admin@nottinghamwritersstudio.co.uk
Blogging & Social Media with Susi O'Neill
Thursday 3rd June 7pm
All About Blogging! Susi O'Neill will be introducing social media basics - what it is, how it works, platforms, best practice, and a few examples from publishing. Not blogging yet? Find out what all the fuss is about! Already blogging? Discover how to get more hits on your blogsite and other interesting and useful tips. Attendees can sign up for a workshop later in July, explaining how to use your blog to promote your writing and enhance your visibility and profile. Talk to be followed by Monthly Social, please bring refreshments.
http://www.nottinghamwritersstudio.co.uk/diary/
http://www.web20surgery.com/experts/susi-oneill/
NOTTINGHAM POETRY SOCIETY
POETRY PERFORMANCE COMPETITION
Cash prizes!
SATURDAY 22 MAY 2010
2.30 PM – Nottingham Mechanics, 3 North Sherwood Street
Judges: Aly Stoneman and Eirreann Lorsung
To enter, put your name down on the door. Bring enough of your own poetry to read from the page or perform by heart to fill two x 3-minute slots. All competitors will read for 3 minutes in the first half. Competitors going through to round 2 will read a further 3-minutes worth of poems.
All performers and spectators welcome.
Entry fee: £2.00 (£1 to NPS members)
NOTTINGHAM WRITERS’ STUDIO WINS £27,000 TO SUPPORT LOCAL WRITERS
Budding young writers will benefit from the experience of established Nottingham professionals under one of the schemes run by Nottingham Writers’ Studio over the next 18 months.
The Studio’s programme includes offering bursaries to young writers which will included mentoring sessions with its members as part of its two-year programme, just confirmed with £27,000 funding by Arts Council England.
The Studio - unique in the UK in being run by writers for writers - was set up three years ago by Booker nominated Nottingham writer Jon McGregor, and has more than 70 members, including novelists, scriptwriters, poets, journalists and copywriters.
It runs networking, training and rents out office space in the the city’s Lace Market.
Other events lined up include:
-
performance and readings of members’ work
-
training sessions
-
networking events with industry professionals
-
attending other local writing events such as Lowdham Literary Festival, and Hello Hubmarine
-
hosting launches and events for local publishers
-
running writing sessions in the community, for instance at prisons
Studio chairman Richard Pilgrim said: “The Studio started with half a dozen writers in someone’s front room just three years ago, as the only organisation run by writers for writers in the country. Now we’re the model for other groups across the country. Writing can be a very solitary job and the Studio helps members keep in contact with other people doing the same thing.”
NOTES TO EDITORS
More information - including how to join - at www.nottinghamwritersstudio.co.uk. Follow NWS on Twitter @nwstudio, and become a Facebook fan at Nottingham Writers.
Media inquiries: Matt Hurst on 07887 906702 / matt@matthurst.net
Changes to NWS Board
Following James Urquarts's successful appointment with Arts Council, England as Relationship Manager (Literature), he has unfortunately had to resign from the Board of NWS. Richard Pilgrim has replaced him as Chair, with Nicola Monaghan taking over the responsibility for Finance. I am sure that everyone (myself, the rest of the Board, and all the NWS membership) would like to thank James for his excellent leadership and valuable input over the previous three years, in particular during the transition from a committee-led organization to a limited company and for his work on our recent successful funding bid, and wish him well for the future.
NWS Coordinator On Leave
The NWS Coordinator is on leave from 17th April to 3rd May 2010. Please note that the studio will be open to members as usual, and emails will be responded to on her return.
NWS Prose/Fiction Writing Workshop - including adult and young adult novelists and non-fiction writers
The NWS Fiction Workshop (which will also operate as the NWS Fiction Sub-group) will be meeting monthly over summer and then fortnightly from September if enough people are interested.
• Workshop format: 1500 words, circulated in advance by email, 20 min feedback for each piece.
• Meetings - Probably on a Thursday night eg starting on May 27th at NWS
• I'd like to network with people at the social on May 6th to find interested people and book a starting date
• Potential forum networking on the Members Page on the website.
For more information and to sign up, please contact: Nigel Smith (who will be leading the group): drnismith@hotmail.com
Short Fuse Presents: METROPOLIS, Tuesday 20th April at The Y
Blitz + Glitz + Fritz Lang; Bright Lights, Big City; Apple, Smoke, Gay Paris...
Headliner: Ruth Gershon Reading 'A Life In Clothes', first published for Granta's 'London' edition. Short fiction: ‘Of Railways and Machetes’, ‘The Day of the Marshmallow’ and ‘The City and It's Tower'.Also featuring a short talk by Dr. Corinne Fowler, featuring original artwork on 'Moving Manchester,' an exciting research project about regional postcolonial writing. She will be considering the ways in which the experience of migration can inform creative writing and discussing plans for a similar project based in Leicester.
Live Music by singer-songwriter duo Jeremy Galgut and Steve Benford. Bar, Live VJ + More
Doors Open 8pm. Tickets £5.50/£4
http://www.facebook.com/l/e3248;www.leicesterymca.co.uk/y-theatre-whats-on-details.php?listing=820
See website for more info about the event, about future events, workshops and calls for submissions, and to sign up to our newsletter: http://www.facebook.com/l/e3248;shortfusefiction.com
Call For Submissions! NWS Presents Word of Mouth at Lowdham Book Festival 2010
Nicola Monaghan will be presenting and curating the next NWS Word of Mouth at Lowdham Book Festival on Saturday 26th of June 2010 as part of their free daytime event. We would like to invite submissions from NWS members across all genres. Members will be invited to read their work at Word of Mouth and should also be available for the Performance Workshop on June 12th (10-1pm tbc) to help them polish their reading skills - this will be free to WOM Readers. We hope to have actors available to read at Lowdham, but will encourage writers to read their own work.
Submission Guidelines: Short pieces or extracts are welcome. Submissions should keep to a 2000 word limit on prose, with poems restricted to 50 lines. Plays (and all submissions) should be no longer than 10 mins when read and preferably max 2 handers (scripts). Please use Word 97-2003 where possible to avoid problems with opening files. All genres are welcome from poetry to prose and script, including interviews, memoir and non-fiction. NWS Members only.
Please email submissions to admin@nottinghamwritersstudio.co.uk by noon on Friday May 21st 2010.
Please note: Submissions that don't fit the criteria in terms of length will not be read.
WriteLion 5 podcast
is now live and includes interviews with Paul Reaney, Rod Maddocks and Megan Taylor.
http://www.leftlion.co.uk/audio.cfm/id/86
IN CONVERSATION WITH ... LISA HOLDSWORTH
Arnold Library, Saturday 8 May, 2pm
Lisa Holdsworth (successful television writer for hit BBC shows such as ‘Waterloo Road’, ‘New Tricks’, ‘Fat Friends’ and ITV's ‘Emmerdale’) offers an insight into television writing and how to take the process from script-to-screen. She will also be talking about her experiences in writing episodes for BBC’s flagship programme ‘Robin Hood’. To celebrate Nottinghamshire's Robin Hood month, and the cinema release of Ridley Scott's Robin Hood film, Lisa will be discussing how the BBC’s creative team adapted the local folklore legend for the screen, and the creative decisions that were made along the way. She will also discuss her own writing background; the television writing industry – both present and future - before inviting questions from the audience.
This is a free event, and a great opportunity to gain insight into writing for television, in particular writing for prime time family-viewing shows. For more information and booking call: 0115 920 2247
Call For Submissions! NWS at Southwell Poetry Festival 2010.
Wayne Burrows will be curating an NWS event at Southwell Poetry Festival on the evening of Tuesday 13th of July 2010.
Submissions are invited from NWS members and friends who will be invited to read their work at Southwell Poetry Festival.
Submission Guidelines: Poems must take no longer than 3-7 mins to read - no minimum. Extracts are also welcome. (Please use Word 97-2003 where possible to avoid problems with opening files).
Please email submissions to wayneburrows@ntlworld.com by 5pm on Friday June 4th 2010. (Open to NWS Members and guests.)
NWS Member Cathy Grindrod Selected for TWP Project
Cathy Grindrod is one of six East Midlands writers selected for Theatre Writing Partnership’s ‘Crossovers’ Project. The project runs from March-October 2010. They are participating an intensive programme culminating in working with directors and actors to each develop a new piece of work for stage, extracts of which will be performed on 29 and 30 October at Leicester Curve, during the Momentum Festival of New Theatre Writing.
NWS Funding Success from ACE
NWS has been awarded a further 12 months of funding from Arts Council England, until October 2011. This will help us to maintain the service we offer while also developing new projects. This is a great achievement in the current economic climate. Jacek Laskowski, our outgoing ACE Literature Officer, commended NWS as an organisation which has listened to advice and consistantly delivered. As a result, we will be consulting NWS members about ideas and projects with the view to developing an online conversation and also a session at the studio where we can all come together to discuss ideas for 2010-2011. Dates for this will be in the next Newsletter!
Former NWS Chair joins ACE
NWS Chair James Urquart was re-elected for a further term as a Board Member at the March 2010 AGM but has stepped down following his appointment as Relationship Manager (Literature) for Arts Council England, East Midlands. Congratulations on his new job! Members will be informed of actions regarding NWS Board as a result of this in due course.
NWS Events
Thursday 6th May 7:30:00 PM NWS Monthly Social and Talk
Poetry and Illustration: The Yeats Project
Jenny Swann (Candlestick Press) and Richard Johnson (ncn) will make a short presentation of the Yeats Design Project, a collaboration between Candlestick Press and New College Nottingham's design department, accompanied by an exhibition of the art work produced by ncn students during the project. The talk will include a read-through of some of Yeats' poems by Deirdre O'Byrne (to celebrate his liberation from copyright at the end of last year!) and a wider discussion of the idea of illustrating poetry, eg. whether it enhances (eg Arthur Rackham's version of Christina Rossetti's 'Goblin Market') or distracts in the way that a TV drama can impose imagery which the imagination of the reader has already supplied (and come up with something different!). You are invited to bring your favorite Yeats poem to share if you would like to read at the event. Talk to be followed by the usual monthly social event. Please bring wine/refreshments!
Thursday 3rd June 7:30:00 PM: NWS Monthly Social and Talk
Blogging & Social Media
with Susi O'Neill
All About Blogging! Susi O'Neill will be introducing social media basics - what it is, how it works, platforms, best practice, and a few examples from publishing. Not blogging yet? Find out what all the fuss is about! Already blogging? Discover how to get more hits on your blogsite and other interesting and useful tips. Attendees can sign up for a workshop later in July, explaining how to use your blog to promote your writing and enhance your visibility and profile. Talk to be followed by Monthly Social, please bring refreshments.
http://www.nottinghamwritersstudio.co.uk/diary/
http://www.nottinghamwritersstudio.co.uk/members/
Missed Out on NWS Events? For those who missed the excellent Literary Agents Talk by Lucy Luck, you can listen again here, courtesy of Ian Collinson
http://www.nottinghamwritersstudio.co.uk/links/2010-podcasts/
For those who missed WIC2010, visit http://literaturenetwork.org
Congratulations to NWS member Joy Armstrong
Joy is one of of three people picked to have their film scripts performed at the Screenlit Festival at the Broadway later this month for the BAFTA/Rocliffe New Writing forum. Her short script 'Tracy Gets a Life' was written during her time on the Creative Writing MA at Nottingham Trent University. The event will be held on Tuesday the 27th of April at Broadway in Nottingham.
5 Leaves have had a busy Spring: www.fiveleavespublications.blogspot.comHot Desking at NWS
Hotdesking will now be free to NWS members
during 2010 in the main meeting area. There are 2 desks for ad-hoc use - one for your own laptop use and one with the members' computer already set up. Members can also use the large table and also the sofa area to work. Please book in advance if you need exclusive use of the area for meetings or want to reserve a desk for work. Any bookings will be shown on the Workspace Diary as well as on a spreadsheet in the office - so please check in advance. Printing and WIFI remain available free of charge.
EVENTS/ OPPORTUNITIES
Your Work - Children's Fiction
Hello my name is Jessica Abrahall, I am a student from NCN studying on a Digital Artwork and Design Support course.
I am about to start my final major project and I would love to do some illustration work for this project. My idea was to illustrate a children's book or story, after speaking to Richard Johnson he suggested that I contact you to see if you could put me in touch with some writers who may be willing to let me illustrate their work? Thanks, Jessica
jessicaabrahall@hotmail.co.uk
Guide to Nottingham is looking for reviewers:
http://www.guide2nottingham.com/jobs/6/Features-Writer-amp-Reviewer-Guide2Nottingham
Art Talk Weds April 14th 7pm: Pauline Lucas will be giving a talk on Evelyn Gibbs and her murals at St Martins of Tours church, St Martins Avenue, Bilborough.
Nottingham Poetry Series
will celebrate its first birthday in style with a reading by Kerri French, Mark Goodwin, and Cathy Grindrod on Thursday April 22nd at 7:30 in the Angear Visitors Centre at the University of Nottingham (Lakeside). There will, of course, be cake, wine, and books to be bought and signed. We'll also have information on hand about our July conference, 'I Am An American Poet: This Is American Poetry' (tickets go on sale May 1 at noon), including a very special announcement about a linked event to be held in London.
I Am An American Poet: This Is American Poetry
http://www.nottinghampoetryseries.com/thisis/thisis.html
Submissions For Hatch(deadline for submissions is Monday 19 April 2010 at midday.)
On Tuesday 1 June 2010, Hatch is crossing over into St James’s Street, Nottingham for a night of performance and live art antics. Hatch is inviting submissions for its sixth event, especially calling for artists and performers working outside or at the edge of their discipline, or who maybe involved in collaboration with artists from other fields, to show their work across the whole of the street.
Hatch: Abroad was a fantastic success with over 300 people visiting the various performances strewn along Broad Street last October. With Hatch: Acrosswe will be darting into less performance-y chartered areas of town into the heart of the city. Venues will range from performance veteran The Malt Cross to more unusual contexts such as a sports bar, the local chippy, a tanning shop and a tattoo parlour.
We are looking for a range of performers, crossing any style, from any background, from recent graduates to established artists, to create work in response to the theme ‘across’. We are looking for work which is likely to succeed but not afraid to fail. Hatch: Across will become a night on the edge, a meeting at the intersection between disciplines, showcasing an exciting mix of fresh and mature work.
If you are interested in submitting a proposal please contact us at hatch@hatchnottingham.co.ukfor an application form and additional information. The deadline for submissions is Monday 19 April 2010 at midday.
Thank you for your time, we look forward to hearing from you.
Hatch
www.hatchnottingham.co.uk
Nottingham Poetry Series: Kerri French, Mark Goodwin, and Cathy Grindrod, Thursday April 22nd at 7:30
Nottingham Poetry Series will celebrate its first birthday in style with a reading by Kerri French, Mark Goodwin, and Cathy Grindrod on Thursday April 22nd at 7:30 in the Angear Visitors Centre at the University of Nottingham (Lakeside). There will, of course, be cake, wine, and books to be bought and signed. We'll also have information on hand about our July conference, 'I Am An American Poet: This Is American Poetry' (tickets go on sale May 1 at noon), including a very special announcement about a linked event to be held in London.
Nottingham Poetry Series
I Am An American Poet: This Is American Poetry
http://www.nottinghampoetryseries.com/thisis/thisis.html
Calling All Writers! Office Available to Rent at NWS
A new office is available for rent at Nottingham Writers' Studio. Great views over St Mary's Church and Lacemarket area. Rent (£150 per month) is inclusive of wifi* and electricity, plus access to printing, internet, kitchen, a pidgeon hole for mail, a resource library and all NWS facilities. The space is suitable for 1-3 people sharing.
NWS Member's Success with BAFTA Rocliffe at Screenlit Festival
NWS member Joy Armstrong is one of of three people picked to have their film scripts performed at the Screenlit Festival at the Broadway later this month for the BAFTA/Rocliffe New Writing forum. Her short script 'Tracy Gets a Life' was written during her time on the Creative Writing MA at Nottingham Trent University. The event will be held on Thursday the 29th of April (6pm) at Broadway in Nottingham.
Nws Bursary for Wic2010 Awarded to Kris Juncker
NWS have awarded a BURSARY to Kris Juncker to attend the Writing Industries Conference at Loughborough on Saturday March 6th 2010. The WIC Panel (led by Damien Walter from The Literature Network) were so impressed with her non-fiction entry that Kris has also been awarded a 1-2-1 with literary agent James Wills from Watson, Little Ltd agency. NWS would like to thank all NWS members who applied for the bursary. Kris has also been invited to come and give an informal report to other NWS members at the April Social on Thursday April 1st about her conference experience.
Information about the Writing industries Conference and a link to the ticket form is available from http://writingindustries.com
For links and information on the Writing Conference and Full Programme, please see below:
http://writingindustries.com/programme/
Graham Joyce to Give Keynote at WIC 2010
We are very happy to announce that Graham Joyce will be making the keynote speech at the Writing Industries Conference 2010. The theme of this year’s keynote will be ‘The End of the Print Age’, reflecting WIC 2010’s focus on the many changes taking place across the writing industries. We are also pleased to confirm details of three specialist workshops for delegates attending the conference, and an additional speaker joining our programme.
Buy tickets for the Writing industries Conference 2010
WIC 2010 Keynote : The End Of The Print Age
This is the twilight of the printed book. As surely as we moved from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age we find ourselves in a transition from the Print Age to the Digital Age. What does this mean for the writer who “merely” wants to write? The complexities of publishing have suddenly been multiplied in a way that challenges every writer who ever had an ambition to publish or make a single penny from the business of writing. But far from being a calamity, the onslaught of digital technologies has opened up new opportunities for the industrious writer who is able to diversify.
Keynote speaker : Graham Joyce
Graham Joyce is the author of seventeen novels and numerous short stories, which have won five British Fantasy Awards, the World Fantasy Award in 2003 and the prestigious O Henry prize in 2009. He grew up in a small mining village just outside Coventry in a working class family and wrote his first novel Dreamside on the Greek island of Lesbos, where he lived for three years after leaving his job to concentrate on writing. After selling Dreamside to Pan Books in 1991, Graham moved back to England to pursue a career as a full-time writer.
Graham’s writing has been classified as fantasy, horror, science fiction and mainstream literature. His stories frequently return to themes of grief, loss, growth and change, the corrupting effects of power, the importance of self-awareness, and the fundamental need for order, meaning, and coherence in the face of a chaotic universe. While the literary quality of his writing has prompted comparisons with magical realism, Graham himself places it in the tradition of the English ‘weird tales’ and writers including Arthur Machen and Algernon Blackwood.
Graham recently collected his memoirs as a goalkeeper in the non-fiction Simple Goalkeeping Made Easy which was nominated for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year 2009. He has also diversified into new media with the announcement last year that he would be writing the story for the latest in the phenomenally popular series of Doom video games. Graham teaches fiction and creative writing at Nottingham Trent University, and is well known for his insightful creative writing workshops and seminars.
http://www.grahamjoyce.net/
Workshops
Writing for video games
Writer and game designer Steve Ince, author of ‘Writing for Video Games’, leads a workshop about the fundamentals of writing for video games.
Working with an audience
Performance skills are ever more important to writers of all kinds. Performance poet and comedian Rob Gee leads this workshop on working with an audience. Suitable for writers of all levels.
About the Writers Guild
Bernie Corbett, General Seceretary of the Writer’s Guild, talks about the union’s work representing writers in TV, radio, theatre, books, poetry, film, online and video games.
Places on workshops are limited. Delegates can register for workshops on the day on a first come first served basis.
Additional Speaker
12.0px Helvetica;">Jacob Sam La Rose joins our panel on the spoken word arts. Jacob’s poetry has been described as “fresh, vivid and masterly” (Poetry Book Society). His publishing credits include City State (Penned in the Margins, 2009), Penguin’s Poems for Love (2009), and Identity Parade: New British and Irish Poets (Bloodaxe, 2010); his performance credits include festivals and venues such as the Queen Elizabeth Hall (London), the Arts House (Singapore), the Urb Festival (Finland), the Green Mill (Chicago) and the Aldeburgh Poetry Festival. Jacob is well known for his work with literature in education and programmes for emerging poets, and he serves as a poetry editor for flipped eye press.
: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px;">
Writing Industries Conference 2010
Saturday 6th March 2010, Loughborough University
A Literature Network, Writing East Midlands
and Loughborough University project.
http://writingindustries.com
Twitter #wic2010
APPLY NOW: BURSARY FOR NWS MEMBERS to attend Writing Industries Conference 2010
NWS are offering a BURSARY opportunity for one NWS member to attend the Writing Industries Conference at Loughborough on Saturday March 6th 2010. The Bursary will cover the Ticket (£42) plus lunch and travel up to a £60 total. (ie £18 for travel and lunch). This will also include the opportunity to apply for a 1-2-1 with a literary agent.
Please reply with a (reasonably) brief expression of interest as to why you would benefit from attending the conference. If you would also like to apply for the 1-2-1 session to discuss your work with a literary agent then please submit your application and work with your entry for the bursary - this link leads to the guidelines, which are really straightforward http://writingindustries.com/1-2-1-guidelines/
We would like whoever wins the Bursary to come and give an informal report to other NWS members at the April Social as to their conference experience.
The Closing Date is Monday 8th February at 5pm. (For 1-2-1 and bursary submissions.)
The winner will be selected by Damien Walter from the Literature Network on Tuesday 9th February. Unfortunately, anyone who has already purchased a ticket is not eligible to apply. Applicants will be informed of the result by Thursday 11th February.
For links and information on the Writing Conference and Full Programme, please see below:
Writing Industries Conference 2010
Saturday 6th March 2010, Loughborough University
A Literature Network, Writing East Midlands
and Loughborough University project.
http://writingindustries.com
Twitter #wic2010
The Writing Industries Conference brings together writers from across the East Midlands and beyond with professionals from the writing industries to share knowledge, develop skills and make new contacts. The conference is open to anyone with an interest in writing, from unpublished writers who want to learn more to bestselling novelists.
The full programme for WIC 2010 is available online here:
http://writingindustries.com/programme/
Upcoming Readings in Nottingham
Tuesday 16th February 7.30pm-9.00pm
Andy Croft is joined by Bill Herbert in reading from Three Men on the Metro, their poetry collection (with Paul Summers) about riding round, and round and round, on the Moscow Metro. Armed only with a battered copy of Jerome K Jerome's Three Men on a Boat (a cult classic in Russia) they are innocents and idealists abroad, not quite tourists, not quite travellers and not quite understanding the language.
Flying Goose Cafe, Chilwell Road, Beeston, Nottingham
Advance notice: Lowdham Festival's Flicks in the Sticks is 5-7th March. Lowdham Book Festival on Tour event with Jon McGregor at Broadway Cinema in Nottingham 9 March, discussing his three novels, including his latest, Even the Dogs. March 20th - States of Independence - independent press fair at De Montfort University, Leicester.
A full listing of Five Leaves events nationally appears on our website, www.fiveleaves.co.uk
Author talks at the University of Nottingham
Organised by the Arts Graduate Centre Writer in Residence, Dr Arthur Piper, in partnership with the Arts Graduate Centre Managers. These events are open to NWS members and University of Nottingham Students only.
Getting Started With Novels - A Workshop with
Nicola Monaghan
Thursday 21 January, 12noon-2pm
Arts Graduate Seminar Room
To sign up for this event, please go to the AGC Research Portal. , or email agc@nottingham.ac.uk.Places are limited to 20. Refreshments provided.
Shoestring Evening at The Flying Goose Café in Beeston - Tuesday 19th January at 7:30pm.
Eirreann Lorsung (Nottingham Poetry Series)and Dan Tunstall (Leicester). £3 on the door includes a glass of wine.
(The Flying Goose Cafe is at 33 Chilwell Rd, Beeston.)
http://eireannlorsung.ohbara.com
http://www.nottinghampoetryseries.com
The Nottingham Poetry Series – Next Event: January 28th at 7:30 p.m.
The Nottingham Poetry Series is pleased to welcome poets Charles Bennett, Cathy Grindrod, and Jonathan Morley to read on January 28th at 7:30 p.m. in the Angear Visitors' Centre on the University of Nottingham campus. Readings last approximately 40 minutes and are followed by cake and wine. Admission is FREE. For more information or to volunteer, please email hello at nottinghampoetryseries dot com, or see http://www.nottinghampoetryseries.com.
Mike Gerber and Five Leaves Publications launch:
Mike Gerber's Jazz Jews
Sunday 14th February 2.30pm-4.00/4.30pm
Drinks at 2.30pm
Short speeches at 3.00 followed by Clare Shaw singing a selection of jazz standards. School of Oriental and African Studies,10 Thornhaugh Street, London, WC1H 0XG, Russell Square tube
Supported by the Jewish Music Institute
RSVP to Mike Gerber or to info@fiveleaves.co.uk, 0115 9895465
Short Fuse Presents: RETOX with HOWARD MARKS
Tuesday 19th January at The Y Theatre, Leicester (2 mins from the train station next to YMCA)
A night of literary excess and intoxicating polemic, featuring:
CK Walsh's thought-provoking paper on 'Drugs and the Internet'...
Extracted from 'Fruitcake', Rob Gee's darkly comic tales from the psychiatric ward, featuring law and disorder and attendant chemical cocktails...
John Vagg's short story about spaced-out, clubby vampires
Helen Burke's flash fiction about a busted party
And topping the bill, we are delighted to present the notoriously Nice HOWARD MARKS
Howard will be imagining a future filled with rampant greenery - an efflorescence of flora, the coming of Triffid Day - wondering, What If Plants Ruled The World?
Then he will be toking questions from the floor, so if you've a burning question for this living legend, better book up quick as this one's selling like hot space-cakes!
8pm start, Tickets £5.50/£4
Book online here:
http://www.leicesterymca.co.uk/y-theatre-whats-on-details.php?listing=772
Box Office: 0116 255 7066
Northern Lights Spectacular - Leicester
A magical fusion of poetry, physics and film, revealing the spectacle of the Northern Lights. Marvel at the world's first 3-D film of the aurora borealis, hear ancient Arctic legends and let two auroral physicists unravel the secrets of the lights. Featuring Professor Stan Cowley & Dr Darren Wright, poet/performer Siobhan Logan and film-maker Brian McClave.
'This event rolled scientific and artistic interpretations of the Northern Lights – both equally beautiful – into one.' (Holly Cave, Dana Centre at London's Science Museum)
Tuesday 23rd February 2010
7.30 - 9pm in Shuttle Suite
National Space Centre
Exploration Drive, Leicester
Free entry but ticket only. Bookings from: Kiri Rhodes (Dept of Physics and Astronomy)
Email: kr124@le.ac.uk Tel.: 0116 252 3570 during office hours.
Book early to avoid disappointment.
Sponsored by: The Radio & Space Plasma Physics Group (Univ. of Leicester)
Theatre Writing Partnership are delighted to announce two opportunities for emerging and established writers.
Crossovers is a development scheme for writers who want to explore the stage. We're looking for interesting ideas from performance poets, journalists, actors, novelists, screenwriters and live artists: we'll select six artists to go through a bespoke development programme, working with directors, performers and dramaturgs to get work developed through the scheme on its feet. This opportunity is about trying something new, so if you've got a track record and want to crossover to stage, we want to hear from you.
Ears Wide Open is an experiment in theatre for the ear. TWP and Writing West Midlands are collaborating to offer two linked audio drama bursaries of £2000. We're looking for two writers - one in the East Midlands and one in the West Midlands - who will write for specific sites that somehow connect, or offer a parallel between, the East and West Midlands. The material will be produced in the Autumn and the possibilities for presentation are numerous and varied, and will be appropriate to the work.
http://twp2009.wordpress.com/projects/crossovers/
Deadlines: 12th February 2010 for Crossovers and26th February 2010 for Ears Wide Open
Two new projects for young people interested in creative writing
This January sees the beginning of two new creative writing projects for children and young people with a passion for writing and literature. Both are free and offer the chance for children to be inspired, be creative, build confidence and expand their knowledge beyond the classroom. These projects are both starting on Saturday 30th January and will run until July 2010.
Write On! Online
Write On! Online offers children the chance to share their creative writing, read the work of others their age and engage in constructive criticism, helping them to enjoy sharing their work. Each child will be given an individual password and once registered; they can then log in at any time and enjoy writing exercises with feedback and help from professional writers. There are no deadlines or assessments, just writing. The scheme is free, secure and moderated to ensure online safety.
Writing Squads
Writing Squads are groups for young people interested in creative writing… any kind of creative writing from poems to plays, stories and songs even texts and tweets! Professional writers will work with Squad members to help them develop their writing talents and find out more about the world of writing and literature. Taking place one Saturday a month from Saturday 30th January till the end of July 2010 the Writing Squads will meet in The Shakespeare Memorial Room at Birmingham’s Central Library.
There will be two Writing Squads- one for 8 to 12 year olds and another for 13 to 16 year olds. Places are limited so sign up now!
Deadline for applications: Monday 25th January 2010
To find our more about both of these projects and to sign up, call Write On! Manager, Jonathan Davidson on 0121 246 2770 or email jonathan@birminghambookfestival.org
Write On! Online and Writing Squads are part of the Birmingham Book Festival’s Write On! Adventures in Writing programme.
WIC 2010 offers 1-2-1 agent and editor meetings
Writing Industries Conference 2010
Saturday 6th March 2010, Loughborough University
A Literature Network, Writing East Midlands
and Loughborough University project.
http://writingindustries.com
Twitter #wic2010 Book tickets online here.
WIC 2010 – APPLY NOW FOR AGENT AND EDITOR 1-2-1 MEETINGS
The Writing Industries Conference 2010 is now open to applications for 1-2-1 meetings with agents and editors. Writers will have the chance to present their work in fiction, creative non-fiction and spoken word. A limited number of 1-2-1s are available and only ticket holders to WIC 2010 may apply.
1-2-1 meetings are available with:
- Lorella Belli, Lorella Belli Literary Agency http://www.lorellabelliagency.com/
- Ollie Munson, Blake Friedmann, Literary TV and Film Agency http://www.blakefriedmann.co.uk/
- Alan Mahar, Tindal Street Press http://www.tindalstreet.co.uk/
- Sarah Ellis, Apples and Snakes http://www.applesandsnakes.org/
- James Wills, Watson, Little Ltd http://www.watsonlittle.com/
- John Berlyne, Zeno Agency Ltd http://www.zenoagency.com/
- Jane Finigan, Lutyens & Rubinstein Literary Agency http://www.lutyensrubinstein.co.uk
For guidelines and details on how to apply please see: http://writingindustries.com/1-2-1-guidelines/
WIC 2010 will bring together writers from across the East Midlands and professionals from the writing industries to share knowledge, develop skills and forge new contacts. 200 writers from the region will have the opportunity to hear from and meet with professionals from the writing industries in a variety of settings:
• Agents and editors in one-to-one sessions with selected writers, giving advice and support in their area of expertise.
• Panel discussions exploring specific areas of writing, from breaking into commercial publishing to working in the community.
• Writing industries fair featuring stalls from local publishers, funders and other organisations involved with the writing industries.
• And of course there will be plenty of opportunity to meet and talk with other writers over a coffee.
Details of the full programme will be announced soon.
If you have any questions regarding WIC 2010 or would like further information please contact:
Alyson Stoneman
WIC2010 co-ordinator (part-time)
Email: wic2010eastmidlands@googlemail.com
Early Bird Tickets - East Midlands Writing Industries Conference 2010
Saturday 6th March 2010
Loughborough University
A Literature Network, Writing East Midlands
and Loughborough University project.
http://writingindustries.com/
Twitter #wic2010
The second Writing Industries Conference will be held on Saturday 6th March at Loughborough University. The conference will bring together writers from across the East Midlands with professionals from the writing industries to share knowledge, develop skills and forge new contacts. 200 writers from the region will have the opportunity to hear from and meet with professionals from the writing industries in a variety of settings:
▪ Agents and editors in one-to-one sessions with selected writers, giving advice and support in their area of expertise.
▪ Panel discussions exploring specific areas of writing, from breaking into commercial publishing to working in the community.
▪ Writing industries fair featuring stalls from local publishers, funders and other organisations involved with the writing industries.
▪ And of course there will be plenty of opportunity to meet and talk with other writers over a coffee.
The full programme including details of how to apply for agent one-to-ones will be announced soon.
EARLY BIRD TICKET OFFER The first Writing Industries Conference sold out soon after tickets went on sale. This year we are have increased the number of tickets available and are offering an early bird price of £34 (Full price £42) – availability limited.
If you have any questions regarding WIC 2010 or would like further information please contact:
Catherine Rogers catherine@writingeastmidlands.co.uk
WEEKEND WORKSHOP FOR DRAMATIC WRITERS
Want to improve your dramatic writing? Away With Words is an inspiring
weekend workshop which explores the techniques of scriptwriting and
encourages you to Œfind your voice¹ as a writer.
Held in Nottingham, the two-day course enables new and emerging writers to
turn their ideas into script form. In a professional yet friendly
environment, playwright Amanda Whittington and director Esther Richardson
will lead sessions on creating strong characters, developing plot and
identifying the story only you can tell.
Suitable for beginners and experienced writers, Away with Words explores the
elements of writing drama through exercises, discussion and one-to-one
mentoring. It will also give valuable insight on making your way in the
writing business.
Our focus is on writing for the stage but the course will cover techniques
you can also use for radio and television drama,² says Esther, the former
Artistic Director of Theatre Writing Partnership, who has a well-established
track record in working with new writers. ³Practical exercises will also
inspire anyone interested in the creative writing process².
Rather than the traditional rural retreat, this writers workshop will be
held the boutique setting of Nottingham¹s Harts Hotel on February 28-29th,
2010 (10am - 4pm). The cost is £175, including a buffet lunch each day and
refreshments.
Further information and contact details can be found at:
http://www.weekendsawaywithwords.com
The Nottingham Poetry Series http://nottinghampoetryseries.com/)
announces open submissions for the third in its series of Juried
Readings; previous readers have included Michael McKimm and George
Szirtes. Submissions for the next reading (29 January 2010, with
Charles Bennett) will be accepted November 16-December 11, inclusive.
Please send 8-10 poems in a single document (Word or pdf) titled with
your surname, along with a separate covering letter, to
submissions@nottinghampoetryseries.com. Full guidelines may be found
here: http://nottinghampoetryseries.com/submissions.html.
