Welcome Night 4th September 2024
With a few knocks of a wooden spoon on the table, the gavel being on holiday in Greece – Ayr Writers’ Club was up and away with a packed programme of speakers, competitions, workshops, feedback sessions, and the promise of an exciting Dragon’s Pen Night.
A packed room of old faces and new, was taken through the year ahead by co-president, Linda Brown. This season is certainly not going to disappoint, starting on 11th September 2004, when the club will welcome John Binnie, playwright, and theatre director to share his expertise in drama writing. The club already boasts some excellent sketch writers, so this promises to be an inspiring evening. Tony Black, Sarah Smith, and CJ Cook will take the club through to the end of 2024 – a stellar line-up.
A few matters of business were highlighted. Club handbooks are available in a digital format, and members were asked to check out the updated sections. Membership fees are now due and can be paid through BACS. Last session, a substantial amount was added to club funds through www.easyfundraising.co.uk. This is an easy and painless way to contribute to the club. Download the app and get started!
Most importantly, AWC is all about giving opportunities for members to improve their writing skills, from newbies to experienced published authors. Club nights, workshops and feedback session will inspire all to write in a variety of genres, receive constructive feedback and to learn from more experienced members. Linda reminded the audience that AWC is, after all, about writing, so these evenings are essential elements in the annual programme.
Business done; Linda introduced the writing prompt – Wish You Were Here in a Flash? A random selection of famous names and activities were shared around. Some were lucky and were given Harry Styles, while others were not so happy with Elon Musk. Some brave souls volunteered to read out their efforts and after listening to why Kamala Harris was shot by an arrow, how Donald Trump ended up with a SAGA tattoo, and the perils of racing around the Australian outback with the Gallagher brothers, the evening ended with smiles and laughs.
A great start to the club with the promise of many more enjoyable evenings to come.
Fiona Johnson