Inaugural Broadleaf Writers Conference is Sept. 24-25

By Collin Kelley

If your dream is to become a published author, you first have to know your craft. That’s the goal of the inaugural Broadleaf Writers Conference, which will be held at the main branch of the DeKalb County Public Library in downtown Decatur on Sept. 24-25. The brainchild of writer Zachary Steel, the conference will be the main event of the Broadleaf Writers Association, which will begin offering yearround programming in 2017. We asked Steele to talk about the creation of Broadleaf and its mission.

Why did you decide to create Broadleaf?

As a young writer who thought I had it all figured out, I had the benefit of joining a writing organization out of state that specialized in teaching the craft. Through their conferences and seminars, socializing and discussing writing with other members, and friendships that blossomed thereafter, I found a sense of home and purpose I had never before experienced. I grew as a writer and as a person. I honestly considered moving just to maintain my place in that community. It was that potent. But Atlanta is my home. This is where I want to be. So, I began the process of creating an organization here. Georgia is rich in solid writing organizations dedicated to assisting writers in their efforts to become published authors, but there weren’t any dedicated solely to craft, or to my vision of what a community of writers can accomplish together. So, I founded Broadleaf Writers with the assistance of a fabulous Board of Directors, and off we went.

What can attendees expect from the inaugural conference?

Writers can expect a line-up of deeply talented writers speaking on various aspects of the craft. Whether it’s Paul Jenkins’ keynote on writing with confidence, or Joshilyn Jackson, Patti Callahan Henry and Brian Panowich detailing their methods of creating the proper Southern voice, or Clifford Brooks III, David L. Robbins and Kate Sweeney discussing how to choose the right word, writers in attendance will gain invaluable knowledge on areas of writing that mean the most to them. Additionally, we have three guest literary agents who will be conducting five-minute sessions with attendees, as well as sitting on a panel focused on the importance of nailing the first page of a manuscript. And beyond the knowledge, beyond what writers will gain from those who have succeeded in the craft, there will be 150 passionate writers talking

Continued on Page 28 take on a traditional fairy tale or holiday story with plenty of audience participation. Another goal is more spaces for performances that can be shared by multiple theater and arts companies.

“I wish we had a variety of ‘alternative venues’ for all kinds of performing arts at reasonable rates,” McManus said. “I think the future of the arts is not everybody needing to maintain their own building – their own space – but sharing their space.”

Before Aris begins its new season in January, the company can be seen at IrishFest on Nov. 4-5 with a special take on the old mythology of Ireland and in December at the annual Celtic Christmas Concert.

For more information about Aris, visit aristheatre.org.

From traditional art forms to new immersive arts experiences, prepare to be amazed at the work in the 25th Anniversary Season. Music, dance and theater at the forefront of creative expression await you!

2016-2017 professional artists series

THE WHOLEHEARTED by Stein/Holum Projects

September 15-17

DJ SPOOKY: THE HIDDEN CODE

September 30

DJ SPOOKY: PEACE SYMPHONY

October 1

GREG WOHEAD: HURTLING and THE BACKSEAT OF MY CAR

October 13-15

THE SECOND CITY: FREE SPEECH (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST)

October 22

PILOBOLUS: SHADOWLAND

October 27

HIROMI: THE TRIO PROJECT

November 4

JOE GRANSDEN: SOUNDS OF THE BIG BAND ERA

November 11

ILUMINATE

November 17