Solo Show & Writing workshops

One thing that I am sure of is this: finding your artistic voice can change the world. I feel lucky to have worked with hundreds of writers and performers over the last 25 years. The people I’ve worked with have performed their solo shows on small stages, large performance venues, at festivals and conferences here and abroad. Some were people who have never written or been on a stage while others were experienced, recognized artists. People have had their books, articles, stories and essays published. They’ve had their plays produced, created podcasts, gave TEDX talks and performed onstage at Live-Lit storytelling events including The Moth and The Moth Grand Slam.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS: Writing a Solo Show & Story for the Stage

Chicago Dramatists-Sept 26- Nov 16 2023




*New Solo & Story workshops coming Winter 2025. Check Chicago Dramatist’s for updates.

“The Writers Room” See below for a full description. Join the waitlist.

New cycle begins Oct 2024

.



Goddess Rising Writing Sold Out

Story Jam Studio- Jan 26-May 2



















INFO- Coaching Sessions & The Writers Room Workshop

I love being a supportive critical eye, your vision keeper and fan. I work in close collaboration and I am here to serve you and your work based on where you are in your process. I am a practicing teaching artist and I understand the aspects of the creative process from the germination of an idea, to its development and completion.

WORKING TOGETHER

My focus through this development process is to be a supportive critical eye, your vision keeper, and fan.  I work in close collaboration and I am here to serve you and your work based on where you are in your process. You may have an idea that is gestating, a partial script, or a completed project.

I work at your pace. Want a one-on-one immersion? Want to meet regularly or just when your writing/life schedule allows? Want to work via Zoom, phone, or in person? Lots of options tailored to you. In-person sessions take place at my studio at 1825 W Summerdale Chicago, Illinois

There is no right way to work. Our sessions will depend on who you are as a writer or performer, where you are in your process, and what works for your particular project. I’ve had musicians sing in my studio. People improvise on Zoom. Still, others pitch ideas so I can ask questions and provide ideas and directions.

Investment- Private coaching sessions are $100.00 per “sloppy hour” but there is a sliding scale. I never want an artist to feel like we can’t work together because of money. Discounted packages are also an option. If there is a pre-read on a full script, it is $100.00. Of course, I offer complimentary phone sessions to talk about your goals, your project and to answer your questions.

“The Writers Room” Join the waitlist. New Cycle begins October 2024.

This is a small private class for writers in mixed genres; autobiographical material, essays, solo shows, plays, novels, podcasts and other creative projects. We meet every 3 to 4 weeks on Saturdays from 2:00-5:15 online and over a 5-month period to allow you time to develop your project. The workshop is supportive and life-affirming and is made up of crazy-talented artists. All levels are accepted. There’s a waitlist right now, but please drop me a line. I’d love to talk about your project.

I love working in collaboration. You talk. I talk. We both listen.
We explain. We laugh. We try something else.
We get confused, maybe frustrated. We try again.
We challenge. We question.
We hold our heads in our hands so they don’t explode.
We chew gum, Drink water & snack. We get up on our feet. We reread.

We listen some more.And then it happens,
we get to the place where we say, ’Yes, that’s it! That works
Arlene

Workshops for Organizations, Groups and Conferences

Integrating story is important for delivering a powerful presentation or developing your “personal professional brand.” Through coaching and exercises, you will find the story and style that best serves you and your goals, whether you want to perform on a stage, give a presentation, speech, or just tell a good story at Thanksgiving dinner.