Collaboration Between Creative Minds

**(THIS SHOW IS NOW SOLD OUT)** TRUE STORY NIGHTS continues its 2026 run with another fabulous line-up of storytellers. These hugely popular, exciting storytelling evenings have been sold-out every month since 2022, so get your tickets early. Vienna Storytelling Collective brings you a different line up of performers each time, with surprising, moving, hilarious and sometimes shockingly true stories. Your host as ever is Turan Ali, producer of BBC drama/comedy, who welcomes you to a rollercoaster evening of gripping, high quality true stories – some from Vienna. Our ever-changing quartet of storytellers for each show includes novelists, comedians, radio, TV and film professionals, screenplay writers, performance poets, singer-songwriters and theatre-makers. It feels like being the priest at a confessional, hearing such personal revelations …. but you don’t need to keep all these a secret! WHAT THE AUDIENCES HAVE SAID: “Exhilarating”, “A brilliant evening every time”, “Funny and very moving”, “Incredible stories!” True stories guaranteed to astonish, amuse or amaze you with their honesty. The line-up for our February 19th 2026 TRUE STORY NIGHTS is Turan Ali (host), actor/writer Rosa Braber, singer-songwriter Padraig McLoughlin and Austria stand-up Nathalie Rettenbacher. **Turan Ali** has Austrian/Turkish parents and has produced, directed and written BBC Radio dramas, comedies and documentaries for 25+ years. He’s the host & producer of *True Story Nights*, an on-stage storyteller and a stand-up around Europe, including his solo shows, one of which *Straight Talking* is at the Volkstheater Rote Bar on 21st February 2026. His *Queer Folks’ Tales* LGBTQ+ storytelling shows are in their 5th year in Scotland. He won Creative Edinburgh’s Leadership Award 2024. **Rosa Braber** is a Dutch actress, performer, director and writer based in Vienna. She works internationally combining theatre, performance and literature. She co-founded the Wolf Collective (Stella Award nominated) and she regularly directs productions for young audiences at the Wiener Konzerthaus. She explores the absurd within everyday reality and has recently completed her debut novel, Sorrento. **Padraig McLoughlin** is an Irish singer-songwriter now living in Vienna. He is known for his indie folk-rock music project, *Son of Loughlin*. He accompanies himself on guitar and occasionally piano and has a captivating voice with themes of emotional honesty, unafraid to speak his truth. His recent releases include EP “From the Essence” (2024) and single "Derail" (2025) with more singles and an album due out in 2026. **Nathalie Rettenbacher** grew up as the first born "son" on a farm in the Austrian alps, which doesn't get any direct sunlight in the winter, Nathalie now lives in the 10th district of Vienna. In her stand up and storytelling she speaks about her precarious work in the call centre, about her life as a trans woman and the everyday absurdity in the streets of Vienna. TICKETS only from Volkstheater (box office or online). https://www.volkstheater.at/produktion/1494643/true-story-nights/3045973/

To celebrate **Fasching and Chinese New Year happening at the same day**, we’re turning an ordinary co-working afternoon into something a little more… ridiculous, expressive, and fun. This is a **costume co-working day**, where focus meets play, and productivity meets self-expression. Join us for our **Weekly** **Co-Working Session** in creative driven lounge **Jaz in the City** — and let’s finally get it done, together. After Co-working from 5pm onward, we are going to a Chinese restaurant to celebrate Chinese New Year together! **Dress-Up Code (very important 😌)** Please wear **one piece of clothing** that fits at least one of these categories: * 🧥 A piece that has been **living in your wardrobe for years** but never had its moment * 🤡 Something **funny, absurd, dramatic, or slightly ridiculous** * 😤 A piece you **secretly hate**, but for some reason can’t throw away Wear it. Own it. And be ready to **share the story behind it**. ✨ Bonus: You’re encouraged to **change outfits between focus sessions** if you like. **How the afternoon works** We’ll have **3 focused co-working sessions**, with short breaks in between. Each break is a chance to: * switch outfits * stretch * laugh * and hear the stories behind the clothes we’re wearing This is still real co-working — just with a lighter spirit and more color. **Why this event** Because: * creativity boosts focus * play reduces resistance * and sometimes productivity needs a little chaos 🎨 You don’t need a “proper” costume. You just need **one forgotten, funny, or emotionally complicated piece of clothing**. 📲 **Want reminders or to connect with others before/after?** Join our [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/K6LidaoQhe16wZ0Se9pNM6), Keep contact via [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/nocrastinationclub/) This is a soft, safe, supportive in-person space to move through procrastination with presence and companionship. Whether you’re working on admin tasks, tax return, writing, creative projects, or simply clearing your inbox — bring whatever you’ve been avoiding and we’ll gently focus beside you. 🕐 **Time**: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM 📍 **Location**: Jaz in the City – Ground Floor Lounge: Windmühlgasse 28, 1060 Vienna, Austria 💻 **Bring**: Your laptop, journal, creative tools, or anything you’ve been procrastinating on 🌿 **Hosted by**: NoCrastination. See you in front of the ground floor bar ✨ you will see us sitting with our laptops ☕ Please do order something from the bar, so as to keep us in their good graces! Coffee price: Espresso: €3.5, Americano: €4.5, Latte: €5.5. Donations optional. **🪑Seating information:** * If this is your first time joining us, please look for **Joanna Liu** when you arrive at the **Ground Floor Bar** (not at the hotel reception). * There is a **long table with 12 seats** for those joining the **peer accountability session** — please arrive on time if you’d like to sit here. * There are also **round tables nearby** for anyone who prefers a more flexible setup. * If you’d like to **work independently (without the Pomodoro arrangement)** but still be part of the group energy, just let Joanna know — we’ll make sure you’re comfortably included. 💛 🌱 **What to Expect** * **Drop in anytime** between **1:00–5:00 PM** — stay for a bit or settle in for the whole session * **Clarify your goals**: write down your measurable tasks for the day on a Post-it when you arrive * **Two spaces**: one for quiet focus, one for casual conversation. After each focus session, if you’re still in the flow, feel free to remain seated — no need to move. If you're up for a chat, join others in the social area for a relaxed break. * **Social start**: from **1:00 to 1:28 PM**, we mingle and get to know each other; our first focus session begins at **1:30 PM** * **Gentle structure**: we begin with a soft check-in and intention round * **Pomodoro-style rhythm**: We work in 45-minute focus blocks followed by 15-minute social breaks. If 45 minutes feels too long, feel free to break it into two 20-minute focus sessions with a short 5-minute reset in between. You’ll need to self-regulate these shorter cycles, just tune into your own flow and rejoin when ready. * **Quiet companionship**: no pressure to talk during focus time — just shared presence and support * **Welcoming space**: we meet in the creative, cozy lobby of the **Jaz in the City** 💡 **New to Pomodoro?** Don’t worry — we’ll guide you gently. No apps or timers needed. 💬 Why Join? * Beat procrastination with gentle accountability * Reclaim your momentum without doing it alone * Enjoy a change of scenery that boosts your focus * Be part of a community that shows up — without hustle Bring your project. Bring your presence. Let’s work side-by-side. 💚

Willkommen bei *"Build & Connect"*, dem Treffpunkt für Selbstständige und alle, die es werden wollen – organisiert von Gründerio. English description below. Dieses kostenfreie Event richtet sich an Menschen, die selbstständig sind und ihre Reise mit neuen Perspektiven, wertvollen Kontakten und spannenden Insights bereichern möchten. Natürlich sind auch alle willkommen, die sich noch in der Planungsphase ihrer Selbstständigkeit befinden! **Das erwartet dich bei unserem Meetup:** 🌟 **Panel-Talk: Zwischen Business & Familie -** Echte Einblicke in die Vereinbarkeit von Selbstständigkeit und Familienleben Selbstständig sein bedeutet Freiheit, aber wie sieht diese Freiheit aus, wenn Familie, Kinder und Verantwortung dazukommen? Beim nächsten Gründerio Meetup sprechen 3 Unternehmer:innen offen über ihren Alltag zwischen Unternehmertum und Familie. In diesem Panel geht es nicht um perfekte Lösungen, sondern um echte Erfahrungen: * Was funktioniert gut? * Wo wird es herausfordernd? * Welche Entscheidungen helfen im Alltag – und welche eher nicht? Gemeinsam sprechen wir über Erwartungen, Schuldgefühle, Rollenbilder, Flexibilität und darüber, wie Selbstständigkeit und Familie individuell vereinbar sein können. **Mit dabei sind:** * Maggy Müller \| Gründerin Vienna Picnics * Gloria Sonn\-Wende \| Gründerin Sonn\-Wende Consulting * Philipp Doblhoff \| Serial Entrepreneur & Co\-Founder Gründerio 🤝 **Austausch auf Augenhöhe:** In einer entspannten Atmosphäre kannst du dich mit Gleichgesinnten vernetzen, Ideen austauschen und von den Erfahrungen anderer profitieren. 🍹 **Gechillte Atmosphäre:** Uns ist wichtig, dass du dich wohlfühlst und Spaß hast. Wenn sich daraus ein neuer Geschäftskontakt oder eine Zusammenarbeit entwickelt – umso besser! 🚀 **Unser Ziel:** Wir möchten dir nicht nur die Möglichkeit bieten, neue Leute kennenzulernen und echte Verbindungen zu schaffen, sondern dir auch praktische Werkzeuge an die Hand geben, die deinen unternehmerischen Alltag erleichtern und dein Business optimieren. Wir freuen uns darauf, dich bei unserem nächsten Treffen in Wien willkommen zu heißen. Lass uns zusammen lernen, wachsen und die Reise als Selbstständige gestalten. **Follow us!** [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/82057598/admin/dashboard/) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/gruenderio/?next=%2F) \| [Whatsapp-Gruppe](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kyi26Bl7v8S6MwZb5VJNmT) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Welcome to *"Build & Connect"*, the meet-up for entrepreneurs and everyone aspiring to become one – hosted by Gründerio. This free event is tailored for self-employed individuals looking to enrich their journey with fresh perspectives, valuable connections, and inspiring insights. Of course, those still in the planning stages of self-employment are also warmly invited! Here’s what awaits you at our meet-up: 🌟 **Panel discussion:** **Between business and family – real insights into balancing self-employment and family life.** Being self-employed means freedom, but what does that freedom look like when you add family, children, and responsibilities to the mix? At the next Gründerio Meetup, three entrepreneurs will talk openly about their everyday lives between entrepreneurship and family. This panel is not about perfect solutions, but about real experiences: * What works well? * Where does it get challenging? * Which decisions help in everyday life – and which ones don't? Together, we will talk about expectations, feelings of guilt, role models, flexibility, and how self-employment and family can be reconciled on an individual basis. **Joining us are:** * Maggy Müller \| Founder of Vienna Picnics * Gloria Sonn\-Wende \| Founder of Sonn\-Wende Consulting * Philipp Doblhoff \| Serial entrepreneur & co\-founder of Gründerio 🤝 **Exchange:** Connect with like-minded people in a relaxed atmosphere, exchange ideas, and learn from the experiences of others. 🍹 **Chilled Atmosphere:** We want you to feel comfortable and enjoy yourself. If this leads to a new business connection or collaboration – even better! 🚀 **Our Goal:** Not only do we aim to help you meet new people and build meaningful connections, but we also want to provide you with practical tools to simplify your entrepreneurial journey and optimize your business. We’re excited to welcome you to our next event in Vienna. Let’s learn, grow, and shape the journey of self-employment together. **Follow us!** [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/82057598/admin/dashboard/) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/gruenderio/?next=%2F) \| [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kyi26Bl7v8S6MwZb5VJNmT) **Disclaimer:** This event will be recorded with photo, video, and audio material. By attending, you consent to the use of this material, including for later promotional purposes. By reserving your ticket, you agree to being contacted by Gründerio.

Every Tuesday, 13:00 – 18:00 Looking for a little extra motivation to tackle your to-do list? Join us for our weekly Body Doubling event at Villa Vida! What is Body Doubling? Body doubling is a productivity technique where simply working alongside others helps you stay focused, accountable, and motivated. Whether you’re studying, working remotely, or just need a space to concentrate, being around others who are also focused can make a difference. What to Expect: A relaxed, supportive environment for getting things done Quiet spaces for deep work and focus Free WiFi throughout the cafe Bring your laptop, notebooks, or anything else you need to stay on track. Drop in anytime from 13:00-18:00 – we’re here every Tuesday to keep you in good company and good spirits while you work. See you there!  *** Jeden Dienstag, 13:00 – 18:00 Brauchst du ein bisschen extra Motivation, um deine To-Do-Liste abzuarbeiten? Dann komm zu unserem wöchentlichen Body-Doubling-Event bei Villa Vida! Was ist Body Doubling? Body Doubling ist eine Produktivitätstechnik, bei der die Anwesenheit anderer dir hilft, fokussiert, motiviert und bei der Sache zu bleiben. Ob beim Lernen, Arbeiten im Homeoffice oder anderen Aufgaben – das Arbeiten neben Gleichgesinnten kann einen echten Unterschied machen. Was dich erwartet: Eine entspannte, unterstützende Atmosphäre zum konzentrierten Arbeiten Ruhige Bereiche für tiefe Konzentration Kostenloses WLAN im gesamten Café Bringe deinen Laptop, deine Notizen oder alles andere mit, was du brauchst, um produktiv zu sein. Komm jederzeit zwischen 13:00 und 18:00 Uhr vorbei – wir sind jeden Dienstag hier, um dir Gesellschaft und positive Energie zu bieten. Bis bald! 

The event is part of our WEEKLY MEETUP SERIES. ---- Hey Badminton Enthusiasts! This meet-up is for all levels: beginners, intermediates and experts. Everyone is welcome to join, test their skills and have some fun together! The organiser will reserve courts in advance - PLEASE ONLY REGISTER IF YOU REALLY PLAN ON COMING (OR CANCEL ASAP IF SOMETHING CAME UP). We are meeting at about 07:50 pm near the reception by the lounge area (next to the courts). Come a bit earlier so you have time to change into workout/sports clothes. The locker rooms are free to use. Also, bring clean indoor sports shoes, your racket and a water bottle with you. There is also a drinking fountain available if you need to replenish your bottle. The organiser will be at the club about 5 min. ahead of time and pay for everyone - please bring if possible exact change and pay the organiser after the event! The fee for this event is 6€. It is possible to rent rackets from the club, if necessary (3€). Sometimes members have spare rackets - please ask in the comment section below! If you are joining our events for the first time, WELCOME! Let the organizer know that you are new and they will find a place for you. Don't worry, we are an open and friendly group. We are sure you will develop connections with the people in our community in no time! Without further ado - see you at our next event! 2G rules apply: geimpft or genesen. We will adapt our events according to the official regulations.

\*This meetup is only a placeholder\* **Enroll on: [https://www.iicv.at/improvclass](https://www.iicv.at/improvclass)** Wanna to say “yes, and” to new challenges? Wanna laugh at your own mistakes, and surprise yourself? Do you look for building your confidence, improve your communication and deal with stress in public? The join our 4-week foundation improv class! **Level**: complete beginner You have already some experience in improv? then join on Improv Tuesday: **[https://www.iicv.at/master-class](https://www.iicv.at/master-class)** We are the International Improv Community Vienna: [IICV](https://www.iicv.at/) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Code of Conduct**: We are a Vienna-based international community seeking to explore, play, practice, and perform improvised arts in a group setting. In treating this space with integrity and professionalism, we are committed to facilitating a harassment-free space for all persons regardless of cultural background, disability, gender, sexual orientation, race, etc. Therefore, the IICV will not tolerate any inappropriate behaviour as per our [Code Of Conduct](https://www.iicv.at/code-of-conduct). Repeated violations of our guidelines can and will result in warnings, removal from sessions, or cancelation of membership. The **International Improv Community in Vienna** IICV e.V. ZVR Nr:1236421179

💃🎉 Welcome to **Bollywood Beats Vienna** — where Indian music meets movement and joy! 🎉💃 Join us for a fun and energetic Bollywood dance session inspired by Holi special songs. 💃 This session focuses on simple, easy-to-follow Bollywood dance flows. No prior dance experience is needed — just come, move, smile, and enjoy Indian culture through music and dance. 🎶 **Style**: Bollywood Flow (Basic Level) 👕 **Dress code**: White 🕺 Suitable for all levels **General Admission:** €12 (pay at venue / registration) Let’s celebrate colors, culture, and community together!

Vienna Storytelling Collective's hugely popular **OPEN MIC STORYTELLING** nights continue on **Thursday 19th February 2026 at 19.00h** in Café Korb, with the audience-chosen theme "In My Defence" At our OPEN MIC STORYTELLING NIGHT performances range from stories, songs, poetry and stand up from aspiring writers, plus we always have a selection of experienced and/or established professional writer/performers to close the first and second halves of the evening for us. Vienna Storytelling Collective’s Open Mic event is one-of-a-kind for Vienna, an English language event where creative minds come together to share captivating stories. Whether you are an author, poet, writer, or just someone who loves storytelling, this evening is the perfect place to share your work or simply be inspired by others. Our open mic sessions provide an opportunity to perform your short stories, poems, share your songs (piano available) , or even try your hand at stand-up comedy or spoken word performances. It's a great way for newcomers to the city to meet like-minded individuals in the performing arts and fiction writing scene. It’s a gripping, fun and varied storytelling experience as audience or performer. Please read the **"What We're About"** section for full details of what to do if you'd like to read or perform your work at our Open Mic sessions. To guarantee a spot - direct message us in advance. Looking forward to seeing you all for another wonderfully entertaining evening of stories and much more. All our evenings since Sept. 2021 have been full ..... so come early. WE ASK FOR A MINIMUM 5 EURO DONATION, TO HELP WITH RUNNING COSTS. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- (Photo by Katarina Humajova on Unsplash)

The outrageous solo comedy show by Turan Ali, is back by popular demand! STRAIGHT TALKING is back in Vienna for a third and final time, written and performed by Vienna Storytelling Collective's Turan Ali. After selling out in Volkstheater Rote Bar twice in 2025, this is a final chance to see Ali’s outrageously funny and thought-provoking solo comedy show, Straight Talking. It's an evening of shockingly candid truths. Where do straights go wrong in their lives? What can gays can teach straights about leading the lives they really want to live? Mixing comedy-storytelling, performance poems, ukulele songs, fabulous costumes and much more, Ali delivers outrageous claims with his much-celebrated, provocative direct-speaking. What the critics have said about Turan Ali : “Utterly fabulous.” (The Q Review) "An absolutely splendid human…a masterful storyteller" (The Wee Review) “Like the best stand-up comedians, his material has been tried, tested and perfected for an audience. It was a joy to watch” (Broadway Baby) “Highly recommended! Entertaining, educational and emotive” (Fringe Review) Turan Ali is an acclaimed stand-up comedian and storyteller from London, now based in Vienna with a very Turkish name, Austrian roots and a big mouth. He writes, produces and directs drama and comedy for the BBC, and performs comedy and stories on stage throughout Europe. This is high quality, intelligent, camp and provocatively queer comedy. An outrageously clever solo show. “I laughed my arse off the whole night” (audience member April 2025) Ali makes sense of having a Turkish Muslim father, an Austrian Catholic mother, growing up in London, going to a Jewish school, and being gay and proud of it. But not all parts of his world cope well with that pride. In this solo show, Straight Talking, Ali shines a light on some of the crazy ways heterosexuals run their lives and relationships, with many surprising things he claims straights can learn from gays. Expect outrageous stories, silliness, shocking confessions and incendiary suggestions, all delivered very queerly, through exceedingly straight talking. But, however funny it is, can you handle the truth? Tickets only available from Volkstheater: https://www.volkstheater.at/event/3184961/straight-talking/inhalt/ Book early - it will be sold out again.

Looking for consistent rhythm in your work? Been putting something off for too long? Join us for our Weekly Co-Working Session in the excellent **Jaz in the City** — and let’s get it done, together. 📲 **Want** **to** **connect** with others before/after? Looking for extra support and accountability: Join our [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/K6LidaoQhe16wZ0Se9pNM6), Keep in touch via [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/nocrastinationclub/) This is a **reliable**, safe, supportive in-person space to move through procrastination with presence and companionship. Whether you’re working on admin tasks, tax returns, writing, creative/coding projects, or simply clearing up your inbox — bring whatever needs getting done and we’ll focus gently beside you. After a 30' intro and goal setting session, we will go through 3 **Pomodoro** **sessions** of 45' focused work and 15' breaks in between. 🕐 **Time**: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM 📍 **Location**: Jaz in the City – Ground Floor long table: Windmühlgasse 28, 1060 Vienna 💻 **Bring**: Your laptop(& charger), journal, creative tools, or anything you’ve been procrastinating on 🌿 **Hosted by**: NoCrastination. See you across from the ground floor bar ✨ you will see us sitting at the long table with our laptops ☕ Please do order something from the bar, so as to keep us in their good graces! Espresso: €3.5, Americano: €4.5, Latte: €5.5. Donations to support the community are voluntary and welcome. 🌱 **What to Expect** * **Welcoming space**: we meet in the creative, cozy lobby of the **Jaz in the City** * **Social start**: intro from **1:00 to 1:30 PM**, we mingle, get to know each other and share goals; our first focus session begins at **1:30 PM.** However, **drop in anytime** if you can't make the intro session — stay for a bit or settle in for the whole session * **Clarify your goals**: write down your measurable tasks for the day on a Post-it when you arrive, or join us for the 30' intro session where we introduce ourselves and share our goals for the day * **Enough spaces**: main table is for quiet focus, multiple nearby tables for casual conversation, and sofa's in the back for taking video calls(be mindful that the hotel music is always on in the background). After each focus session, if you’re still in the flow, feel free to remain seated — no need to move. If you're up for a chat, we can move to a social area for a relaxed break * **Pomodoro-style rhythm**: We work in 45' focus blocks followed by 15' social breaks. If 45' feels too long, feel free to break it into two 20' focus sessions with a short 5' reset in between. You’ll need to self-regulate these shorter cycles, just tune into your own flow and rejoin when ready * **Quiet companionship**: no pressure to talk during focus time — just shared presence and support 💡 **New to Pomodoro?** Don’t worry — we’ll guide you gently. No apps or timers needed. **🪑Seating information:** * If this is your first time joining us, please look for **Vlad** when you arrive in front of the **Ground Floor Bar** (not at the hotel reception). * There is a **long table with about 12 seats** for those joining the **peer accountability session** — please arrive on time if you’d like to sit here. * There are also **round tables nearby** for anyone who prefers a more flexible setup. * If you’d like to **work independently (without the Pomodoro sessions),** but still be part of the group energy, just let **Vlad** know — we’ll make sure you’re comfortably included. 💛 💬 Why Join? * Beat procrastination with gentle accountability * Reclaim your momentum without doing it alone * Enjoy a change of scenery that boosts your focus * Be part of a community that shows up — without hustle Bring your project. Bring your presence. Let’s work side-by-side. 💚

This time start at 6pm! Dieses Mal start um 18 Uhr! This is an event for ages 16 and up. Children are not allowed to participate. We cannot guarantee age-appropriate scenes and exercises. **Stop overthinking and start playing!** 🌿 This session is a soft, safe space to practice being present and letting go of perfectionism. Please note: The main part of this session will be held in **German**. **Raus aus dem Kopf, rein in den Moment!** 🎭 Hast du das Gefühl, oft festzustecken oder alles perfekt machen zu wollen? Improvisationstheater ist das perfekte Training gegen Procrastination und Perfektionismus. Hier lernst du, dem ersten Impuls zu vertrauen und mit dem zu arbeiten, was gerade da ist. **Was dich erwartet:** In einer wertschätzenden Atmosphäre nutzen wir einfache Spiele und Bewegung, um: * 🌱 **"Ja, genau!" zu sagen:** Impulse annehmen statt sie zu zerdenken. * ✨ **Fehler zu feiern:** Perfektionismus ablegen und spielerisch "scheitern". * 🧠 **Präsenz zu stärken:** Ganz im Hier und Jetzt reagieren. * 🤝 **Gemeinsam zu lachen:** Kurze, humorvolle Übungen ohne Leistungsdruck. **Der Ablauf:** Wir starten mit einer Stunde lockerer Gruppenspiele. Danach folgen sehr kurze, lustige Impro-Szenen. **Wichtig:** Du machst nur das, worauf du Lust hast. Es ist ein Safe Space – keine Vorkenntnisse nötig! **Eckdaten:** 📅 **Wann:** 31\. Jänner \- 17 bis 20 Uhr 📍 **Wo:** GB Mitte, Max-Winter-Platz 23, 1020 Wien 👤 **Host:** Simon Brauner (über 70geleitete Trainings) Das Event ist kostenlos **Komm vorbei, lass den Planungsmodus hinter dir und entdecke die Freude am Moment. Wir freuen uns auf dich! 💚** WA-Gruppe: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JgmE1fAt7284tf0eIFlBtI This is a German-speaking improv session focused on mindfulness and overcoming mental blocks. No acting experience needed - just bring your presence and curiosity!

Come write with us at Cafe Pierre every Sunday at 18:00-20:00! A message from Shut Up & Write: "Shut Up & Write hosts free, in-person and online writing events for writers all over the world. Our goal is to ensure that every writer—regardless of genre or skill level—has access to the resources, community, and accountability that they need to be successful in their personal writing goals." And what this looks like at our event: We chat and give short introductions to what we are working on at 18:00, then start writing at 18:15. Though we try to start on dot, being late isn't a problem—just find a spot and get to work! We write until 20:00 and then discuss how our writing went. From fiction to non-fiction, academic papers to poetry, applications to work-related writing—anything goes! Nothing is needed except for you to bring whatever is need to get stuff done, i.e. laptop, headphones, pen and paper, and so on. Optional socialising may happen before 18:00 and after 20:00, or you may choose to use this time to get some more done! Please do order something from the café (drink, meal, dessert, etc.) so as to keep us in their good graces!

**KONTRA-STRICH** music and live drawing jam with **Anna Rotter** on Contrabass and **Eugenio Belgrado** on Malerhand *Music, Drawing, and Society in improvisational, creative dialog* WHEN: **19 February, 7-9:30 pm** WHERE: **The Living Room**,\* 1080 Vienna Free admission. A small contribution is welcome. Reservation is required. (RSVP here on meetup!) \*New to the Living Room? We'll send you a message of confirmation containing the address. **Eugenio Belgrado** is a classically trained painter, illustrator, and printmaker who lives and works in visual arts and art education in Vienna since 2016. He is also the author of Italian and German language graphic novels, including, most recently, "Köglberger" (Bahoe Books, 2025), and is a regular creative graphics contributor for DATUM and other contemporary magazines and newspapers. **Anna Rotter** is a bass player, singer, and songwriter from Vienna. She's a member of the jazz fusion band "Diminished Gravity" and founder of the chanson trio "Hommage à Georges Brassens". She's passionate about improvised music and experiment at the crossroads of interdisciplinary artistic expression. wege sind zum gehen da, strümpfe zu zerreissen denn die sonn' geht schon lang nicht mehr pünklich auf und die meeresfrüchte beißen \- aus *Licht sein*, Anna Rotter, 2025

Join us for the inaugural gathering of the DC Creative Collective for Film, TV, and Theater — a welcoming space for filmmakers, writers, actors, and creative enthusiasts across the DMV to connect and create together. This first meetup will be an introduction to the collective’s vision, followed by networking, artist introductions, and an open discussion where members can share their creative interests, experience levels, and the kinds of projects they hope to collaborate on. We will also host a casual table read and idea exchange, giving participants a chance to hear scripts, workshop concepts, and meet potential collaborators for future productions. Whether you are experienced in the industry or just beginning your creative journey, come ready to build community, share stories, and help shape a collaborative artistic home where ideas move from imagination to stage and screen.

**What to Expect:** Join us for a relaxed, supportive gathering where we'll create together, share our process, and connect mindfully. No art experience necessary, all levels and all creative expressions welcome! **What to Bring:** Please bring your own art materials and supplies, whatever you enjoy working with! **Ideas for materials:** sketchbooks, journals, pastels, crayons, markers, colored pencils, collage materials, yarn, lego, diamond art, iPad or tablet for digital drawing, or anything else that calls to you. Bring paper or surfaces to work on as well. There's no right or wrong, just bring what feels good! 🙂 **What we'll do:** **6:00 pm:** Arrive, get settled, grab a drink/snack, and find a spot **6:10 pm:** Set out your supplies, take a breath, and ease in **6:15–7:30 pm:** Create, chat, unwind, and follow the good vibes **7:30 pm:** Gentle wrap-up with *Come/leave whenever, this is relaxed and flexible gathering!* **Location:** Wegmans cafe (one level above the store), 11620 Monument Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030. Look for the table with art supplies! This is a social, low-key meetup, not a formal class, and there will be no instruction.

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

**AI-Supported Creative Exploration** *For Unassuming Intuitives & Practicing Creatives* (Please note that this event has not been organized or endorsed by The Writer's Center.) This meetup is part of AI as Creative Partner — A Practice Group, a set of open, non-sequential creative labs you can join at any point. We use AI as a thinking partner—not to replace your ideas, but to help surface and shape them without overthinking or pressure. You bring fragments—ideas, impulses, unfinished concepts. With AI as a supportive collaborator, we explore how those fragments can become clearer, more coherent, and ready to share if and when you want to. No technical background is required. If you can talk or type, that's enough to work with AI here. This session is intentionally low-commitment and flexible: * Arrive late or leave early * Work quietly or observe * Ask questions, or simply watch the process unfold There's no presentation and no expectation to finish anything. Showing up as you are is enough. **QUIET AI STUDIO - WORKING WITHOUT PRESSURE** This is a quiet, non-performative creative working session. There's no sharing requirement and no group activity. You can work privately, sit with your thoughts, or observe how others collaborate with AI. Especially welcoming if you're tired of hustle-style creativity and want a calmer way to move ideas forward. **HOW TO FIND US** Look for the room with the door open on the lower level. Look for the guy with the screen projector and ambient light and sound. Feel free to just walk in and settle. **(*This is an independent meetup using rental space at The Writer's Center. The Writer's Center has not organized or endorsed this event.*)**

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

**AI-Supported Creative Exploration** *For Unassuming Intuitives & Practicing Creatives* (Please note that this event has not been organized or endorsed by The Writer's Center.) This meetup is part of AI as Creative Partner — A Practice Group, a set of open, non-sequential creative labs you can join at any point. We use AI as a thinking partner—not to replace your ideas, but to help surface and shape them without overthinking or pressure. You bring fragments—ideas, impulses, unfinished concepts. With AI as a supportive collaborator, we explore how those fragments can become clearer, more coherent, and ready to share if and when you want to. No technical background is required. If you can talk or type, that's enough to work with AI here. This session is intentionally low-commitment and flexible: * Arrive late or leave early * Work quietly or observe * Ask questions, or simply watch the process unfold There's no presentation and no expectation to finish anything. Showing up as you are is enough. **FROM FRAGMENT TO FORM - AN OPEN AI STUDIO** Many creative ideas don't arrive as "projects." They arrive as fragments, moods, or something that won't leave you alone. This open studio is a place to gently explore those fragments using AI as a thinking partner—without forcing clarity too soon. You're welcome to work, observe, arrive late, or leave early. This is a calm room for unfinished ideas. **HOW TO FIND US** Look for the room with the door open on the lower level. Look for the guy with the screen projector and ambient light and sound. Feel free to just walk in and settle. **(*This is an independent meetup using rental space at The Writer's Center. The Writer's Center has not organized or endorsed this event.*)**

**The Arts of Life with Nancy Burbridge - Discover Yourself through art!** **You're Invited to 'Arts of Life'** A meditative journey through art with local artist Nancy Burbridge Join us every third Friday of the month at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum, Virginia from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM for creativity, relaxation, and self-discovery. In this interactive session, you will learn how to draw, paint, and explore the beauty within, cultivating the best version of yourself in a serene and supportive environment. Come experience the magic of art and meditation as tools for self-expression and inner growth. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore! We can't wait to see you there! Fri., Feb. 20th, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum- Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl., Suite 200, Chantilly, VA, 20151. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/m6Ncn](https://shorturl.at/m6Ncn)