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Step Into the Virtual Cabaret
The University of Dayton’s Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop invites writers to take the virtual stage and read essays or short excerpts of their work before a supportive audience of peers in a free open mic night.
“Virtual Essay Cabaret” with Kathy Kinney and Cindy Ratzlaff is slated for 7 p.m. (EST), Wednesday, Feb. 12. While it’s free and open to the public, registration is required.
“This is an opportunity to walk through your fear with your heart on your sleeve and share your writing. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift to yourself,” said Kinney, a writer and actress best known for her role as “Mimi” on The Drew Carey Show.
Kinney and Ratzlaff are the creative duo behind the “Queen of Your Own Life” philosophy, which promotes claiming a life of joy and adventure. They are also the authors of several inspirational books. For 35 years, Ratzlaff worked as a marketing executive with Simon & Schuster and Rodale, helping more than 200 books reach The New York Times bestseller lists.
As longtime supporters of the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop, they are underwriting the event.
Here’s how to participate:
- Register for the event, whether you’re interested in reading or being part of the audience: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/virtualessaycabaret.
- For those interested in reading, express your interest here by Feb. 7. Names will be drawn randomly at the event. Writers are invited to read a short essay, story or work-in-progress that’s three minutes or less.
- While the event is free, a $25 donation will help support future workshop programming. Optional donations can be made here.
As a bonus, at the end of the evening, the hosts will draw the names of three lucky writers to win complimentary registrations to “The Virtual Erma: Stories of Our Lives Featuring Anne Lamott,” a virtual workshop on Saturday, April 5. Writers must be present to win.
“In a world that sometimes feels overwhelming — whether it's the tragedy of the wildfires in LA, the biting cold and snow in other parts of the country, or the constant drumbeat of politics — there's no better way to recharge this winter than spending an evening with fellow storytellers,” said Teri Rizvi, director of the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop. “We’re thrilled that Kathy and Cindy are championing this fun, supportive night.”