We all have stories to tell, but how do we know where to start?
In this gentle, playful writing workshop, we explore how to awaken and support your unique creative voice. Through thoughtful reflections and fun writing prompts, we tune in to the stories we have inside us, and give them the space they need to be told!
For more information and to sign up, please email info@hgjewishtheatre.com.
Limited space available so sign up early!
"The thing I enjoy most about working with Vanessa is that at the end of each one-hour session, I am left with a feeling that I can really do this; that I can create a piece of art with meaning. I strongly encourage anyone who is like me, wanting to write but stuck to get started, to work with Vanessa. She will inspire you to release and hone your creative skills." - Gayle Brock
"She was inspiring... not only as a writer, but as a person who can motivate others to free their inner creative self." - Robyn Milani
Vanessa Smythe is a Canadian actor and writer. Her recent acting work includes Hudson & Rex (Citytv), Mrs. America (FX), Designated Survivor (ABC), Murdoch Mysteries (CBC), and the film Pieces of a Woman. Her original solo show, In Case We Disappear, played to critical and popular embrace in North America and the UK, and was named one of the best free shows at the Edinburgh Fringe. A graduate of the Humber School for Writers, Vanessa is the co-creator of The Tape Escape - "Outside the March's latest site-specific marvel" – (NOW). She has worked with CanStage, Soulpepper, Company Theatre, Crow's, Starvox, fu-GEN, Howland, and YPT. Also a poet, Vanessa recently collaborated with Olympic Gold Medalist Simon Whitfield to compose a poem for The Canadian Sport Awards, read by some of the country's most celebrated Olympians. Vanessa is also an educator and writing coach, and is passionate about helping people connect to their own creativity. Upcoming: Vanessa joins Season 5 of The Expanse.
What can I expect each week?
Our time together will consist of fun writing exercises, journaling prompts, discussion, and sharing. There will never be any obligation to share your work, but there will of course be lots of opportunities to share reflections and writing - if you would like to! This course is all about honing in on your creativity, and understanding what you're most passionate about when it comes to your writing. Through exercises and prompts, we will clear a path for your creative voice to emerge. And we will spend time learning how to support ourselves along the way.
What will I "come away with" at the end of this?
We will each create personal and unique goals for our time together. Some of you may wish to create the beginning of a particular project (a play based on your life, for instance). Others may simply want the regularity of setting aside time to write and create each week in a supported environment. We will work with what feels right for you. In our final week there will be an opportunity (voluntary, of course) to share a final offering or "piece of writing" with the group, inspired by our time together. Ultimately, my hope is that you come away feeling more connected to your own creative power.
Is this "playwriting"? Or poetry? Or... what is it?
As someone who dabbles in multiple writing forms (I'm a poet, playwright, screenwriter, and storyteller), I love letting the impulses dictate the form. In other words, you can write in whichever form you're most comfortable. You may be drawn to monologue-writing, or you might love poems. Because we'll be working from prompts designed to tap into your own sources of creativity, you'll be encouraged to write in whatever style emerges for you. That's part of the fun. :)
I've never written much before. Will this be over my head?
The course is designed to meet you at your particular level and moment in time. Maybe you've always wanted to write, but never have. Or maybe you've had lots of experience writing - but have felt blocked for the last few months (or years!). We'll be working to unobstruct the creative flow of writing that can come from you, so you can feel more connected to your own creativity, and allow yourself to give it time, nurture, and support.
Why now?
It's a challenging time for all of us right now. There is a lot of fear, uncertainty; and most of us are deprived of our usual sources of support. I've always believed that our creativity can be something to lean on -- a source of joy when things get hard. The ritual of coming together (even online) can also really help. For me, it's soothing to feel part of a community, tackling their creativity together. My job is to create a safe, supportive space, where we can all feel encouraged to dream and make together. I hope you'll consider joining us!