So, here’s something cool–I just did my first work for hire. An opportunity came via a friend to write the Alberta Ballet’s version of the Nutcracker (based on the synopsis in their program) for oral story telling at their children’s parties, so the kids would understand what what happening when they saw the ballet. The length was to be 15 minutes, and man, oh, man, is the plot complex–and some of the motivations are extremely unclear. But two of us collaborated with a 4-day turnaround to create a text that we are both proud of, and which the ballet company loved. Cool, eh? The payment is in tickets to the dress rehearsal, so the equivalent of $24, or $0.75/word. Not bad, eh? Unless I get there early and scoop the $800 seats.
Reading at Shelf Life Books
Had a great opportunity to participate in a reading at Shelf Life Books. I was the MC and my writers’ group, IFWA, had eight members read very short pieces on the Mayan Apocalypse. I only wish my friend, Ann, had written the story she was considering, about “alpaca lips.” Oh, well. The rest of the stories were very good, and great variety. We had about 10-12 people out to the event, so need to do better next time.
Really enjoyed SF Contario
I had never been to SF Contario before, but it was really neat. I did a reading and got to sit on 4 panels, with some very high level conversation–very interesting. Also attended really enjoyable and thought-provoking panels.
Amazing writers’ retreat
So, how cool is this? I spent a week, along with five other writers, at a writing retreat hosted by Rob Sawyer! I got lots done, though didn’t do nearly as much as Gerald, who got 18,000 words written! On the Tuesday evening, Rob invited his editor, Adrienne Kerr over for dinner, so you can imagine the conversation was very interesting.
World Fantasy was a blast
One of the highlights for me of World Fantasy this year was running into R Scott Bakker, whom I hadn’t seen for several years. We had a great conversation, late into the night. Also, my reading was well attended by about 15 people, which really surprised me. Also, got my copy of Among Others signed by Jo Walton. The art show was small, but high quality. Good friends, good restaurants, Edge book launch!