The Scriptorium: Enchanted Writing – Workshop

For those drawn to creating their own magical writing, old literature and folklore provide a treasure trove of inspiration.

In this creative workshop, a seasoned storyteller teaches participants how to mine these bewitching materials to produce their own tales of wonder. Materials explored will include ancient spells, grimoires, faerie lore, charms and even Shakespeare’s magic. There will also be a retelling of an ancient tale of enchantment, after which participants will be invited to create their own pieces using prompts, free writing and timed exercises. Note: there will be no sharing of work, so attendees are free to explore and experiment with their ideas safely.

Ideal for anyone interested in the power of words, this workshop is equally suitable for experienced and new writers. By the end of it, everyone will have a new means of drawing inspiration for enchanted writing and some practice in the art.

Bernadette Russell is co-director of arts organisation White Rabbit. A published author, playwright, theatre maker and spoken-word storyteller, she hosted the award-winning storytelling salon 'Are You Sitting Comfortably?' for ten years at Arts Admin in East London. She is currently storytelling at Butser Ancient Farm. She has previously told stories at many venues including the National Theatre, Southbank Centre, and the Royal Albert Hall. She is an alumnus of the School of Myth and studies folklore at the Woodland Bard School and with Dr Sharon Blackie. She has taught creative writing and storytelling for over twenty years.