The Writing Show Series – Lively, Moderated Panel Discussions
Tuesday or Wednesday Evenings | 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
$12 JRW Members | $21 Non-Members
Writing Show panelists are comprised of authors and other literary professionals that offer an insider’s look at the craft and business of writing. The unique structure of The Writing Show series offers an opportunity for participants to socialize and network during the first half hour, before the panel discussion begins. The first half of the program is a panel format, where writing experts share thoughts and advice on the evening’s topic. Following the presentation, the audience has the opportunity to participate in a Q&A. A short intermission is offered, when we encourage attendees to take a break, grab a drink, and share their writing successes (completed first drafts, publication, and even rejection letters count!), to help inspire everyone to keep going on their writing journey. Barring any technical difficulties, your registration also includes a follow up email that provides a recording of the program (when hosted online) to view for a limited time.
JRW offers Writing Show memberships that grant you access to all of our Writing Shows. Find details HERE.
2026 Writing Show Season
Tuesday, January 27 | IN PERSON at the NewMarket Building in Richmond (THIS IS A VENUE CHANGE!) | Get it Together! Harnessing Community to Energize Your Writing
Tuesday, February 24 | ONLINE | When to Break the Rules: Grammar, Structure, and Experimentation
Join our expert panelists for a discussion on the art of subverting writing conventions with purpose and skill. Discover when rule-breaking elevates your work versus when it distracts from your purpose, and learn how successful authors create their distinctive voices and memorable narratives. Whether it’s telling a story in an unusual format or playing with the constraints of punctuation, join us in exploring different ways writing can push the envelope.
This event has passed.
Tuesday, March 31 | IN PERSON at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond | Critique Groups and Beta Readers: Finding and Being the Best Critical Readers
One of the most common questions for James River Writers staff is, “How do I find a critique partner?” Well, our panelists can help you with that! Hear from three writers intimately familiar with the ins and outs of critiquing and beta reading. They’ll tell you how to find the right fit, how to develop a thick skin (and when you shouldn’t have to), and how to improve your own skills in critical reading and feedback. As a special bonus, we’ll have networking time after the show, so you can see if your perfect beta reader is in the audience.
This event has passed.
Tuesday, April 21 | IN PERSON at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond | Engaging Readers with Effective Pacing
Pacing isn’t just about car chases and cliffhangers—it’s the rhythm that keeps readers engaged, whether you’re writing historical fiction, fantasy, an essay, or a poem. Our panelists will explore how to control the flow of information and how to create momentum that carries readers through your work. Learn techniques for varying sentence length, managing white space, balancing introspection with action, and other structural choices that shepherd your reader’s experience from the first line to the last.
Panelists: John Copenhaver, Nicole Glover, Alethea McCollin, and Moderator Melissa Scott Sinclair
This event has passed.
Tuesday, June 16 | ONLINE | ADVOCACY SERIES | UNEXPECTED WARRIOR: Amanda Jones is THAT Librarian, in Conversation with Meg Medina
Amanda Jones is a middle school librarian, an activist, and the author of That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America. She has served as President of the Louisiana Association of School Librarians, was distinguished as the 2021 School Library Journal Librarian of the Year, and named to the 2025 TIME100 Next list. Amanda gained national attention for fighting book bans in her home state of Louisiana, which led her to pen That Librarian, to share about her experience.
In this James River Writers advocacy discussion, Amanda will share about her unexpected journey to becoming a leading voice for intellectual freedom and anti-censorship. In an online conversation with Newbery Medalist and former National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Meg Medina, Amanda will talk about how the book banning landscape has changed over the last few years, the wider implications of these book bans, and what part we can all take in countering censorship in our own communities.
Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship
See the details of each of this special advocacy program HERE.
Tuesday, August 25 | ONLINE | Uses and Misuses of AI in Writing
Artificial intelligence tools are reshaping the writing landscape, offering both powerful possibilities and huge potential pitfalls for authors at every stage. Our panelists will explore ethical considerations, practical applications, and creative boundaries when incorporating AI into your writing process–and if you even should. We’ll talk about leveraging AI as a tool as well as how to protect yourself and your work.
Registration Coming Soon…
Wednesday, November 18 | IN PERSON at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond | Own Your Creativity: Subduing Imposter Syndrome (rescheduled from original date of November 17)
Imposter syndrome affects writers at every level and along every step of the way, from first drafts to award-winning finished products. Our panelists will share their personal struggles with self-doubt and the strategies they’ve developed to quiet the inner critic and claim their identity as creators. Learn practical techniques for building confidence, quieting jealousy, and getting your creative work done despite the nagging voices in your head.
Registration Coming Soon…
Registration is required. Links to access each online program will be emailed to registrants automatically upon completing registration. Be sure to check your spam folder(s). Schedule may be subject to change. To be sure you don’t miss out on any of our programming, sign up for our e-newsletter HERE.
This programming is supported [in part] by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly.