Amy Eaton attend HippoCamp last year and, this summer, she’s returning as a break-out session speaker. We’re thrilled that she’s going to share how writers can better prepare to tell their stories or give readings, something we all should be thinking about! We asked Amy a few questions about her appearance at this year’s conference.
HM: Tell us a little about your involvement in HippoCamp this year. What are you most excited to share during your panel?
AE: I am running a break out session on how to most effectively present your work in a live setting, whether that means an open mic, a reading or something more performance oriented, such as a storytelling, slam or live lit event. Having worked in theater for so much of my life, I really love to work collaboratively with folks, so if you come to my session, you can expect some practical tips and hints as well as some breakout group work to practice those skills. Please don’t worry if you have little or no performance experience! You will when you leave! And if you’re already comfortable onstage, then fine-tuning work is a blast too!
Why do you love true stories?
Everybody’s got a story and when we tell our own and listen to someone else’s, we understand so much more about ourselves and the world we live in. I really believe that sharing stories may be the only way to make any real change in the world. True stories give me hope.
What made you decide to participate in HippoCamp this year as a speaker?
I got so much from the conference last year! I met such great people and came away from the whole experience feeling more focused and solid. I loved the idea that I could give some of that energy back to fellow conference goers.
Attendees can learn more about you on our speaker’s page, of course, but there’s more to you than that bio! Share a fun fact with us, something we may be surprised to know.
In the ’70s and early ’80s, I studied tap dancing with Miss Goundrey, who’d been a Rockette in the ’50s. Classes and recitals were held in the basement of the Masonic Temple. I was a “Goundrey Girl” till I was 16. I’m up for a kick line if anyone else is!
Aside from preparing for HippoCamp 2018 (of course!), what are you working on? Any recent or upcoming projects/publications you can share?
I will be battling one of my all time heroes at Write Club Chicago at the end of June for the Loving Cup of Deathless Fxxing (not sure if I could swear here) Glory and some cash. I also have shows coming up with MissSpoken (Live Lady Lit) and Stoop-Style Stories (No Cis Men Edition).
Since you’ll also be attending the conference, what are you most looking forward to learning or doing when you’re not wearing your “speaker hat?”
I am definitely looking forward to the story slam! I’m excited to see faces from last year and for too many workshops and speakers to list here!
We love introducing Lancaster to attendees. Since you have been here before, what would you recommend to other attendees?
Everyone says Central Market, but I’ve got to jump on the bandwagon and agree, Central Market! Also, I know this sounds so crass, but last year the coffee lightening options were whole milk, 1/2 & 1/2 and cream which I admittedly found dreamy.
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Amy, we look forward to learning from you — and giving our attendees courage to share their work, live!
And, reader, register to reserve your place today.
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