Registration opens:
March 28th, 2026

Writers Weekend: Vision & Re-Vision for Reading Rizz *

In this 90-minute revision and performance workshop, participants will work on revising a poem in preparation for reading at an open mic or other event.

Participants should bring a poem of 12-30 lines (approximately) that they’d like to receive feedback on. Participants will share, workshop, and practice for an imagined public reading. The participant group will serve as a friendly audience, giving each other feedback toward preparing for larger audiences. We’ll discuss what kind of poems work best for which kinds of audiences, learn how to “gloss” or prepare preparatory comments to introduce our own poems, learn about pacing, breath, and owning the poem and the room. 

This workshop is part of our new annual Writers Weekend series for adults interested in writing and publishing their work, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and journalistic writing of all lengths and styles. Join us to sharpen your skills, connect with fellow writers, and take the next step toward publication! 

About the presenter 

Laura Lee Washburn is a University Professor and the Director of Creative Writing at Pittsburg State University in Kansas, the author of  4 books of poetry, including “Arteries,” and "The Book of Stolen Images.” Harbor Review’s micro-chap Washburn Prize is named in her honor. Her degrees are from Old Dominion University, where she interned for the Associated Writing Programs Newsletter, and from Arizona State University. Born in Virginia Beach, Virginia, she has also lived and worked in Arizona and in Missouri. She been invited to give  public performances of her poetry at Universities, bookstores, arts festivals, art galleries, and coffee shops. She regularly participates in open mics and has directed multiple reading series. 

For disability accommodations, call 479.856.7250 or email questions@faylib.org 2-3 weekdays before a program. Plan your visit by viewing our building map and details on accessibility services.

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