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Celebrate Stephen Leacock's 150th birthday with writing workshops

Workshops cover topics ranging from reading for writers, book sales, and podcasting

NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF ORILLIA
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In honour of Stephen Leacock's 150th birthday, the Leacock Museum National Historic Site is hosting a series of workshops based on the literary career of one of Canada, and Orillia's, most famous sons.

Follow in Leacock's footsteps from self-published author to accomplished radio personality and renowned public speaker in this limited series event. Registration is $25 + HST per workshop, or $60 + HST for all three!

For more information or to register, contact the Leacock Museum at 705-329-1908 or email [email protected].

Reading for Writers with J.M. Frey

Saturday, June 1, 2019, 1 – 4 p.m.

Register by: May 14, 2019 at 4:30 p.m.

Hate reading from your book at launches and festivals? Worried you’re boring your audience? Using techniques commonly employed by professional performers and voice actors, this workshop is designed to help nervous and inexperienced writers read their own works in a way that is compelling, entertaining, and appropriate for the genre. Participants are encouraged to bring 100 words to read (their own work or a favourite passage/poem), note taking materials, and to wear clothes they can move in.

Selling Your Book in a Social Media-Driven Market with Josh Poitras

Saturday, June 8, 2019, 1 – 4 p.m.

Register by: May 21, 2019 at 4:30 p.m.

Self-published poet and author Josh Poitras (My Worthless Heart, Blossom In Winter), leads this workshop on self-publishing and selling your book independently in a social media driven marketplace. Explore the pros and cons of self-publishing versus traditional publishing, how to build an online presence and connect with your target audience, and the basics of making your work available online. Learning from Josh's firsthand knowledge and experience, you will be able to take your finished manuscript and make it available to book sellers and online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Attendees will receive a coupon code for 25 per cent off from our partners, self-publishing site Lulu.com.

Podcast Listening Party with Amanda Cupido

Saturday, June 22, 2019, 1 – 4 p.m.

Register by: May 31, 2019 at 4:30 p.m.

Whether you're new to podcasts, or you're a podcasting pro, this session is for you! We will begin with a discussion about some of the latest podcast research that highlights listening habits, the business of podcasting and the future of the industry.

Attendees will then get to hear clips from a variety of different podcasts, with fun facts about production style woven throughout. Get ready to also hear samples of audio storytelling from Stephen Leacock and how he implemented best practices that can still be heard today. Do not be surprised if by the end, you're inspired to subscribe to new podcasts or, better yet, ready to pick up a mic and start recording.

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