Workshops for Writers
How to Create Characters that JUMP off the Page!
Created for the San Miguel Writer's Conference in San Miguel, Mexico - February 14, 2016 from 11 - 12:30 pm
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For those attending, the handout for the workshop including pre-workshop homework is available here.
Thomas Edison said, “All great ideas originate in the muscles.” But sitting with pen (or computer) in hand, it is easy to get stuck in our heads with the characters we are creating.
In a recent interview I was asked how I was able to give the multiple characters in my novella, JAZZ, such strong and individual voices. My reply? I improvised them on my feet and out loud in my writing studio. I got into their bodies, into their experience, and out of my head.
In this fun and freeing workshop, we will explore how to build characters that come to life on the page using the tools of the improvisational actor. No acting experience? No worries. As a poet friend of mine said, “Good writing requires intense focus. But more important than that is a sense of play.”
In a recent interview I was asked how I was able to give the multiple characters in my novella, JAZZ, such strong and individual voices. My reply? I improvised them on my feet and out loud in my writing studio. I got into their bodies, into their experience, and out of my head.
In this fun and freeing workshop, we will explore how to build characters that come to life on the page using the tools of the improvisational actor. No acting experience? No worries. As a poet friend of mine said, “Good writing requires intense focus. But more important than that is a sense of play.”
Free Write
Unlock the Powers of Your Creative Mind
Do you suffer from writer's block? Do you dismiss ideas before they have a chance to come alive because of what someone else has said, or because of the critical nature of our own inner self-talk? Would you rather pick lint up off the floor rather than write? Using free fall writing techniques, we will jump-start your creative process and get your writing mojo back on track.
The great writer, Maya Angelou said that, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you." Let's relieve the pressure, shall we?
*This program can be adapted for youth in school or community settings.
"Elizabeth Copeland's writing is authentic, leading-edge, bold, razor-clear, and often surprising. She is a very polished writer with a distinctive yet versatile style, moving easily through a wide variety of written mediums. I highly recommend her 'voice' around any number of creative projects. If you want someone to help you 'speak' what you know in your bones but can't quite express through your words, she may be able to help!"
~ Andrea Mathieson / Raven Essences
The great writer, Maya Angelou said that, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you." Let's relieve the pressure, shall we?
*This program can be adapted for youth in school or community settings.
"Elizabeth Copeland's writing is authentic, leading-edge, bold, razor-clear, and often surprising. She is a very polished writer with a distinctive yet versatile style, moving easily through a wide variety of written mediums. I highly recommend her 'voice' around any number of creative projects. If you want someone to help you 'speak' what you know in your bones but can't quite express through your words, she may be able to help!"
~ Andrea Mathieson / Raven Essences
Personal Change / Leadership Development Workshops
Acting Out
If all the world's a stage, what role are you playing?
The origins of theatre are rooted in respect for life’s mysteries. It is a collaborative art, requiring a deep commitment to self and to others. Using the tools of the actor, this program will guide you to step into the heart of your own creativity, with a view to giving voice to your authentic self. Come access the wells of your creativity, and develop your unique style of leadership!
This program is designed for adults interested in creating a deeper connection to their own original, creative source – in other words, it has a deeply personal focus. At the same time, it is also geared to leaders, encouraging a development of a confident style of leadership that encourages others to draw on their own gifts. Ultimately, both focus on bringing the best of self to the community.
"This is profound work and you are clearly a master."
~ Alleta de Wal, Artistic Insanity
This program is designed for adults interested in creating a deeper connection to their own original, creative source – in other words, it has a deeply personal focus. At the same time, it is also geared to leaders, encouraging a development of a confident style of leadership that encourages others to draw on their own gifts. Ultimately, both focus on bringing the best of self to the community.
"This is profound work and you are clearly a master."
~ Alleta de Wal, Artistic Insanity
Stepping Out *
A Presentation Skills Workshop
On the stress scale, public speaking is right up there with death and taxes. For many of us, when we take the stage, we do so with shaking hands, a nervous stomach or that deer-caught-in-the-headlights look. Others, who would never cop to feeling nervous, deliver solidly boring performances filled with bombast. Either way, no meaningful connection is made with the audience.
Would you like to know how:
*Private coaching also available
“Your presentation was exceptional. The content you delivered was very practical. But the most powerful aspect of your session for me was the way you were a personal example of the material your brought. We watched in awe as you demonstrated the very points you spoke to. Very, very powerful stuff!!”
~ Michael Hughes, PRESIDENT/ Networking for Results, 2005 President - Canadian Association of Professional Speakers – Ottawa
Would you like to know how:
- to craft a presentation that clearly defines your vision? With stories and stats to back it up?
- to work with your nervous energy so that it becomes a bonus rather than a bummer?
- to connect with your audience, whoever they may be?
- to make presentations that get results, and enjoy yourself in the process?
*Private coaching also available
“Your presentation was exceptional. The content you delivered was very practical. But the most powerful aspect of your session for me was the way you were a personal example of the material your brought. We watched in awe as you demonstrated the very points you spoke to. Very, very powerful stuff!!”
~ Michael Hughes, PRESIDENT/ Networking for Results, 2005 President - Canadian Association of Professional Speakers – Ottawa
Interested in one of these workshops?