Writers' Workshop classes in Charlotte

The Writers’ Workshop is offering new writing classes for the winter season. They are for any level writer, and meet at Providence Presbyterian Church in Charlotte.

Registration is in advance only, by mail or at the website (www.twwoa.org). Financial aid in exchange for volunteering is available. For more information, please contact writersw@gmail.com, or call 828-254-8111.

• March 3: Writing and Producing the Screenplay with Nathan Ross Freeman — The class will receive an overview of writing for the screen, and how to produce, direct and distribute a film of your script. Various formats, structures and techniques will be discussed, as well as tips on creating interesting characters and realistic dialogue. Students may bring a screenplay idea or synopsis to the class for review. Freeman has written and produced the independent feature films, “Mr. Bones” and “Authoring Action.” Saturday, 12-5 pm. $75/$70 members.

• March 31: How to Self-Publish, Market & Promote Your Book with Peggy DeKay — Whether you are a published author or writing your first book, this class will give you a comprehensive guide to making money by self-publishing. The class will cover everything from creating a manuscript on your PC to selling your book on Amazon and in bookstores — the smart and profitable way. Tips will be given on how to use print-on-demand technology and CreateSpace to publish and sell your book. DeKay is the author of “Self-Publishing for Virgins,” and teaches seminars throughout the Southeast. Meets Saturday, 12-5 pm. $75/$70 members.

• April 21: From Inspiration to Publication: Poetry and the Writing Process with Scott Owens — Beginning and experienced poets will learn new methods of writing, revising and publishing poetry. Class discussion will focus on the writing process, from generative strategies to the revision process and beyond. Participants may bring up to three poems to the class for review. Owens is the author of 10 collections of poetry and editor of Wild Goose Poetry Review. Saturday, 12-5 pm. $75/$70 members.

• May 17-20: Writers’ retreat at Folly Beach, S.C. (see website for details: www.twwoa.org). — Join the workshop for its bi-annual writers’ retreat at Folly Beach, near Charleston, S.C. — an ideal place to relax, write and review each other’s work. Daily sessions in fiction and non-fiction writing will be led by Karen Ackerson, director of The Writers’ Workshop. Participants stay at an old-timey beach house across from the ocean. Rates are $395 for a private room, or $345 shared. Carpooling from Asheville is available. The registration deadline is March 25 with a deposit of $200. To register at our website, click on “register” and then “donation.”