Writers Block

 

Writers Block is a fun and supportive place for reluctant writers and passionate storytellers to explore their writing among a group of peers in a free afterschool program designed for ages 7 - 18. We host three weekly sessions focused both by age and interest. The mix of structured and unstructured writing time lets students explore and practice elements of the craft, whether fiction, essay, poetry, or visual storytelling. As in all our programs, we encourage students to share their work. Writers Block is open to those new to The Telling Room as well as experienced writing veterans. Please read each description below carefully to determine which group will be the best fit for you or your student.

REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED. The registration lottery will reopen in late summer for fall 2024 programs.


Word Play: Ages 7 - 10 (Meets on Mondays from 3:30pm - 5:30pm)

Word Play is a fun and creative exploration of writing and storytelling. We use a number of generative exercises to find inspiration in play, art, our imaginations, and the world around us. Students write, draw, act, and share their work aloud.

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Story Sleuths: Ages: 10 - 14 (Meets on Mondays from 3:30pm - 5:30pm)

Story Sleuths is designed for students who are looking for various creative ways into the writing process. During the first few sessions, we dive into different generative exercises finding inspiration through play, our imaginations, and the world around us. Our investigations might take us for walks around the wharves or a trip to an art gallery. One year students even interviewed strangers for a podcast! During the second half of the program, students pick one of their story starts and work towards a polished piece.

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Works in Progress: Ages 12 - 18 (Meets on Wednesdays from 3:30pm - 5:30pm)

Works in Progress is designed for students working on a specific long-term writing project for which they'd like inspiration, creative space, and feedback. Using a workshop model, students share their work with peers and learn how to give and receive feedback. This is an open and supportive writing community for the first-time writer or the experienced veteran. Students will be expected to do outside reading.

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WHO: Writers Block is open to students ages 7 - 18. Each semester is filled with a lottery system. Any student placed on a waitlist will get priority registration for the following semester.

WHERE: Writers Block takes place at The Telling Room, located at 225 Commercial Street, Suite 201 (second floor) in Portland, ME.


WHEN: Writers Block is a semester program, and all sessions take place after school from 3:30pm - 5:30pm. Spring semester of Writers Block will meet Monday Wednesday afternoons, January 22nd - April 3rd, 2024. Fall Semester registration will be open from August - September, 2024.

Word Play meets Monday afternoons from 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Story Sleuths
meets Monday afternoons from 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Works in Progress meets on Wednesday afternoons from 3:30pm - 5:30pm

COST: Free! Please consider donating to help keep this unique afterschool literary arts program free for all students.

CONTACT: Any questions regarding Writers Block can be directed to Marjolaine at marjolaine@tellingroom.org.