Intensive — Chicken House Press

Share space with other writers for a twelve hour writing intensive.

Register

**Twice yearly intensives designed to make space for your latest project.**

Come out and experience the joy of writing in community! Share ideas, talk through plot struggles, or just find a quiet corner and focus in on your project.
**Traditionally hosted in the spring and the fall.**

Next Event :

SATURDAY, MAY 25, 2024

9:00 am - 9:00 pm

at The Durham Art Gallery in Durham, ON

a bright and intimate space.

A light lunch and hearty supper will be served, as well as all-day snacks, tea, coffee, and cold drinks.

Bring your laptop, notebook & pen, and whatever other tools you need to make your writing day a success.
Wifi is available as well as accessible electrical outlets for your devices.
Dress for comfort - you can even bring along a pair of slippers if you like!
Chairs are not padded so you might consider bringing along a pillow to sit on or lean against.
If you like to listen to music while you write, please bring headphones so you don't disturb those who like to write in a quiet space.
Need a break during your writing time? The gallery is available for you to enjoy throughout our time together.
We will be right across the street from the river and the walking bridge. You are welcome to slip out for fresh air any time.

PRO TIP: by bringing your own travel mug, your hot drinks will stay hot much longer - but don’t worry, cups will be provided for anyone who needs one.

Sign up to attend!

IMPORTANT: The gallery will be open for their regular exhibit hours of 12-4 p.m. During this time, patrons may be enjoying the exhibit in the main hall. Generally people are respectful and quiet but there may be some light conversation.

There is a small dog that often roams the gallery. She belongs to the executive director and is very friendly. While she shouldn’t be in the room with us during most of the intensive, she may pop in from time to time.

Donna C

Inspirational and Precious! …with the Chicken House Press and Alanna's Writing Intensive, the garden of my manuscript is flourishing. She gave us writers everything we needed to be creative... SUN - with the energy of other writers, GROUND - in a bright and spacious art gallery, WATER - with plenty of ergonomic space, internet and power outlets for our computers, FERTILIZER - delicious & nutritious food and snacks and finally, TIME - giving us busy mom's, partners, & humans the permission to dedicate this time to nothing but our creative voice. Cannot recommend it enough!
Lori T

“I produced over 6000 new words in under 12 hours, while sharing a quiet space with many other passionate writers. We were served two home cooked meals (with dessert) that were simply delicious, plus there was an endless flow of coffee and tea too. It ranked as one of the best Saturdays of the year for me.”
Patricia T

“I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to spend this day with a group of inspiring writers.”
Sara D

“…the day included a lot of nice touches that made it a truly enjoyable event, such as bowls of fruit and chocolate, welcome gifts, and unlimited coffee and tea. The work space was perfect and it was so nice to have a hot, delicious lunch and dinner provided for us.”
Aly B

“I really enjoyed the day! The venue was roomy and quiet, and all our needs were taken care of so that we could focus on our writing. I made so much progress editing my WIP and even had time to work on a new piece of flash fiction and a few other things. It was nice to connect with some local writers as well. There was no pressure, just a relaxed space with a welcoming host. The home-cooked food was tasty and the bottomless coffee and tea was appreciated. I can't wait for the next one!”
Bev H

“This was a day we could really focus and work with quiet, all our needs for snacks. coffee, and tea met. The quiet space contributed and flexible lunch schedule was great. I got so much done and appreciate the organization of Alanna.”
Erin M

“It was my first time at an intensive like this. I wasn't sure what to expect. But as an introvert, it was perfect to me. I was able to give my undivided attention to my WIP. Alanna provided a space that was quiet, calm, and free from distraction. She provided all the coffee and snacks you needed to keep your energy up. The group was diverse and supportive. The intensive really helped me to get my word count up. I made incredible progress, and I encourage anyone looking for an intensive opportunity to participate. This was my first one, but it definitely won't be my last.”
Janice C

“I LOVED participating in the writing intensive! It gave me an opportunity for some uninterrupted quiet time to do edits and work on new words for my manuscript. As an added bonus, I was able to meet one of the other member of a women's writing group that I belong to. I was thrilled with the entire experience! “

FAQs

How much does it cost?

$80 covers your full day registration.

Is the building accessible?

Yes. The building is wheelchair accessible.

Do I have to share my writing?

There will be an opportunity after supper to share what you’ve been working on. (See schedule below.) If you are uncomfortable sharing, it is fine to just sit and listen. No one will be forced to read that doesn’t want to.

What if I can only attend for half the day?

During the registration process you will have the option of selecting a full day or half day. The half day includes only one meal and is discounted to reflect that. Half days begin at 1 p.m. and carry through until 9 p.m. If you can only attend for the morning, still select the half day option and indicate a 9 a.m. arrival on your registration form.

How many writers can you accommodate?

I am creating space has room for up to 12 writers. You will have to share table space, but should have lots of room to spread out your gear.

Is there a choice of food?

There will be a set menu for the day. If you have special dietary restrictions you may opt out of the meals for a discount on your registration and you can bring your own food with you. You will have access to a refrigerator and a microwave. The venue does not have an oven. (But it does have an espresso machine that I’ll be learning how to use! ☕️)

If you require a vegetarian or vegan diet, please indicate this clearly on your registration form with an understanding that I will do my best to provide a full personal meal option that you can enjoy. I may contact you for recipe support or suggestions to ensure a positive experience.

Where is it located?

The Durham Art Gallery is at 251 George St E, Durham, ON N0G 1R0

Is there parking close by?

There is a free parking across the street from the gallery with room for approximately 10 cars. Street parking is also available

Tentative Schedule

9:00 a.m.—Arrival, introductions, first coffee, settle in.

Noon—Lunch is served - fill a plate on your own timing. Keep on working or take a break and join others around a table.

6:00 p.m.—Dinner is served. Join the group around the table for a family style supper and share about the project progress you’ve been making.

7:00 p.m.—Reading session. An opportunity to share something you wrote during the day. Choose to read or just choose to listen. Invite feedback or just use the time as practice for that book launch you’re going to have one day. (Haven’t had enough personal writing time? No problem. You’re welcome to head right back to your writing station and make the most of your last couple hours.)

8:30 p.m.—Begin to pack up for the day. Give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve accomplished a lot!