By SAMANTHA MCGUIRE, Staff Reporter
The writers of Northwestern Oklahoma State University will be showing off their handiwork at the Writer’s Roundtable Showcase at 7 p.m. on Dec. 1.
The Writer’s Roundtable is a group focused on original, creative writing. Dawn Allan, an instructor of English and advisor of the Writer’s Roundtable, leads members in fun writing exercises during their meetings.
Club members will get a chance to show off their original work at the showcase. “This allows our members to gain experience, confidence and insights into the works they are proud to share,” Allen said.
In the past, the showcase included poetry, short stories and scenes from longer works. Each student who signs up for the showcase in able to fulfill an allotted amount of time (usually 5 minutes) with the work they are proud to share.
This is the showcase’s fourth year. The showcase has evolved from teachers reading to visiting authors to Writer’s Roundtable members. Unfortunately, in past years there has not been a huge turn out at the event.
Allen said she wishes more people would attend the event. “There is a lot to be gained for these students in terms of preparation for public appearances and dramatic reading practice,” she said. “It helps them build confidence and accuracy with speed and tone.”
People should come to watch the showcase because it is pleasant for audiences to hear stories straight from the writers, Allen said.
The Writer’s Roundtable is a club where students can learn about writing, publishing and editing industries as well as learning what it takes to become a professional writer, Allen said. The club also attends conferences and classes.
“Anyone who enjoys writing or story telling [should join the Writer’s Roundtable]!” Allen said. “Whether poetry, short fiction, novels, creative essays, journaling or any others, our group focuses on writing, and we strive to include all students interested.”