DIY

Have I told you how much I love the Allan Street Reading Series? A funner more jennerous venue for writers reading their work surely does not exist. Kudos to the curator, writer & editor Jenner-Brooke Berger for putting these monthly events together, and to her roommate for providing the baked goods. The ASRS is to writing what various & sundry basements and garages have been to Halifax's indie/alt music scene. It's fantastic to see the crossovers in this do-it-yourself culture--immensely talented people taking the bull by the horns and not waiting for others to do it for them. The rest of us older more "seasoned" writers can learn a lot from these younger emerging folks. If you want people to hear your work--if you want to hear your friends' work--don't wait for them to get invited to read at the library or in a bar or on the radio. Bake a bunch of nanaimo bars and open up your house or deck or apartment, invite everyone you know and tell them to bring a friend, and let the readings begin!
But if you're still feeling too timid or shy or just plain old and out of steam to DIY, the ASRS is as welcoming as can be. Its energy, its vibe is Ahhh-mazing.