Literature
Estuary Publishing
Estuary Publishing’s slogan is ‘Bridging the Thames with Words.’ They publish local Thameside authors and their range of forthcoming books adheres to the Thames Estuary’s historic heroism and tragedy, with many real-life stories and historically based novels. Their focus is to tap into the region’s writing talent. They organise many events to this effect throughout the year for local artists, authors, and the community. Those looking to gain experience would be very welcome, and there are opportunities for volunteering in a variety of positions such as events management, public relations, producing flyers, social media and networking.
Event locations vary
For up to date details check website
Free unless otherwise specified
Audrey Snee
01702 474686
FPG Reading Salon
Focal Point Gallery
The Forum
Elmer Square
Southend-on-Sea
Essex SS1 1NB
The Reading Salon meets for informal discussion, encouraging both a critical engagement with contemporary art and an open space for debate and learning. A piece of critical theory, an idea, a poem or a piece of fiction is suggested and read, before meeting for a book club-type discussion.
All ages and abilities
Free
focalpointgallery@southend.gov.uk
01702 534108
Richard Kurti
Richard Kurti is a screenwriter and novelist who has lived in Westcliff-on-Sea for 17 years. His film writing includes commissions for US studios (Universal, Warner Bros, Miramax and Fox Searchlight) and UK companies such as Working Title and Pathe. In television his writing has been for mainstream audiences, including BBC adaptations of Kidnapped and Sherlock Holmes, episodes of Robin Hood, Primeval (ITV), Sinbad (Sky), and a large-scale adaptation of Terry Pratchett’s Going Postal for Sky. Recently Richard branched out into new areas, with radio dramatizations for BBC Radio 4, and two YA novels – Monkey Wars and Maladapted. He regularly runs workshops in secondary schools. Some of these are designed to encourage aspiring writers, while others are aimed at jump-starting students who have become disengaged with English literature!
Ages 11 upwards
Metal Art School
Chalkwell Park
Chalkwell Avenue
Southend-on-Sea
Essex SS0 8NB
Metal run a wide range of courses from their new Metal Art School space in Chalkwell Park. This includes writing courses, run by published writers. These opportunities vary from 10-week evening classes on Creative Writing and Non-Fiction, as well as intensive week-long LABS for writers with current projects on the go that could use some critical peer-to-peer input. Please note our literature courses do not run all year round. For up to date details please call us or check our website.
01702 470700
Syd Moore
Syd Moore is the author of bestselling novels, The Drowning Pool and Witch Hunt (HarperCollins). A qualified teacher Syd holds an M.A. in Creative Writing from City University. She has worked extensively in the publishing industry, presented Channel 4’s book programme and has taught publishing and writing skills for over 9 years. Her workshops can be tailored to suit different levels from beginners to advanced/professional and from primary to post-graduate education. Subjects covered include: narrative structure, characterization, plot, editing, and peer evaluation.
Half Day Workshops
All ages
Fees apply
Palace Writers Group
Cliffs Pavilion
Station Road
Southend-on-Sea
Essex SS0 7RA
Or – Palace Theatre
430 London Rd,
Westcliff-on-Sea
Essex SS0 9LA
The Palace Writers Group is open to anyone over the age of 16 with an interest and enthusiasm for writing. No experience necessary. Local writers lead the members of the group. The writing styles of the members vary from short plays to poetry and comedy, and there are opportunities to share writing and performance.
Every Wednesday from 7.00pm
Membership is £3 per week
Kelly Reynolds
01702 390472