The Writing Salon is unlike any other event for writers. It seeks to draw inspiration from unlikely places as it dissects genre and narrative, explores fiction and non-fiction, and dives into all forms of storytelling. Through a mixture of video, audio, theory, practical exercises, interviews with guests, and a very social and engaged membership it will make you feel energised about your writing. Everyone is welcome, as well as all writing genres and formats. Some members have no previous writing experience – others write regularly for stage, page and screen. Whatever your level, you’ll get a warm welcome.
Join host Mark Heywood for the next edition of The Writing Salon on 19th September as we celebrate 30 years of the Union Club! This month we’ll be looking at how birthdays (and indeed anniversaries and family gatherings in general) are the ideal story machine. Another year older, another year closer to…well let’s not go there. Birthdays can be joyous. They can also be maudlin. Either way the combination of family, friends, and very often alcohol can be a potent mix. In this session we’ll look at some examples of how these gatherings can create the perfect story environment. Just look at Falling Down in which the lead character is trying to reach the home of his ex-wife in order to attend his daughter’s birthday party. Birthdays are often used in animation (Toy Story), but also in horror (The Omen). Even Hitchcock was a fan (The Birds). Join us as we explore how to craft a story that exploits the dramatic potential of a birthday.
There will also be a short practical element to the session. Grab your pencil cases, and we’ll see you there.
The session starts at 7pm but please feel free to book a table at the Club from 6pm to enjoy a bite to eat, or arrive a little early in order grab a drink before we begin (you can also book a table for 8.30/9pm to have your supper afterwards!)
Email reception@unionclub.co.uk to book.
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