Projects

I’ve had an unplanned break from the blog to focus on various projects. As lockdown continues in some form, opportunities to access a range of training and events increase. I’ve been fortunate to find spaces on three courses which are running at present. They would usually ask people to attend in person, rather than via video call. But video is working very well for all of them. I thought I’d offer a brief summary today in case there are opportunities of interest to others.

Poetry and other writing

First is the ‘Words To Live By’ project, run by the multi-talented Holly Daffurn. This National Lottery funded project supports groups of individuals with long term mental ill health. A series of writing workshops encourage participants to write as a form of therapy. Writers are supported in exploring thoughts and emotions as they build their portfolio of poetry and other writing. It is an uplifting experience, and a good way to meet others who share a passion for writing. At the end of the course, a book is published, containing a selection of pieces from each participant. I would have struggled to join the programme if the course needed me to be there in person. But attending remotely has given me the opportunity to work with, and learn from, Holly and others. A book launch is pencilled in for September, restrictions permitting. Words To Live By has really helped to spark my creativity during lockdown.

Short stories

Next, another writing course. This one is a short story writing course, run by author Mysżka Matthews at Foxes Retreat. This would usually be a residential programme at Mysżka’s wonderful farmhouse home in the Peak District. However, with residential courses not being an option at present, it’s running online. Again, this is a chance to work with people I wouldn’t usually have come across, while developing my craft as a writer. The course aims to bring people from nothing, to having a complete short story within the six two-hour sessions. Particular attention is paid to character development. Mysżka shares techniques on building full character histories, which won’t reach the final story, but will nevertheless influence a character’s behaviour. Whatever your writing experience, if it’s something you’re passionate about, I do recommend Mysżka’s courses. I hope we will visit in person at some point.

Storytelling

Finally, a course on storytelling run by the Shoebox Theatre. Who doesn’t love a cosy campfire and storytelling by the light of the flames? I used to go to an annual live action role play event, which included two nights’ worth of camping (the link is for one of the year’s I attended!) There was a huge firepit, and many wonderful hours were spent with other participants telling stories long into the night. Storytelling is about bringing stories to life through voice and expression. It’s about engaging the audience and drawing them into the world you create with your words and actions. As this course is available online, through video, it’s drawn a wide range of participants. Including one who calls in from Switzerland! Led by storytelling expert, Cheryl Stapleton, the group is bonding over shared stories and learning experiences as we progress.

So while lockdown may be frustrating in some ways, there are also many new opportunities. Things which wouldn’t usually be easily accessible have opened up. I’m already looking towards my next courses once the current batch have finished!