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Scriptwriting Events Today

Join in-person Scriptwriting events happening right now

TORONTO STOP: Crafting Impactful Portraits with Raph Nogal
TORONTO STOP: Crafting Impactful Portraits with Raph Nogal
IMPORTANT: You must also register at this link [Henry's Church - Crafting Impactful Portraits with Raph Nogal Tickets, Friday, Mar 13 from 1 pm to 3 pm | Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/henrys-church-crafting-impactful-portraits-with-raph-nogal-tickets-1983618316783?aff=oddtdtcreator) Join professional photographer, Raph Nogal, at Henry’s Church St. for an inspiring and creative workshop sponsored by Sony and Profoto. This workshop is free to attend. This session dives into shaping light with intention — from concept to execution — using Sony camera system & lenses, and Profoto lighting tools to create bold, dimensional portraits. Raph will break down his approach to building mood, directing subjects, and crafting images that feel both cinematic and commercially polished. Perfect for photographers looking to elevate their lighting, refine their creative process, and produce work that stands out. **Follow Raph on instagram (@raphnogal) and make sure to subscribe to his YouTube channel (@RaphNogalPhotography)** **About Raph:** Raph Nogal is a Polish-Canadian professional photographer based in Toronto (est. 2009). Known for his bold use of colour, hard light, and sculpted shadow, Raph specializes in commercial, editorial, and lifestyle photography. His work is defined by a creative off-camera lighting approach that blends cinematic mood with commercial precision. Raph is a Profoto Ambassador, Sony Pro, and active educator and speaker, regularly sharing his expertise on lighting, creative direction, and visual storytelling. Before transitioning fully into commercial work, he built a strong foundation as a wedding photographer. A 24-time recipient of the WPPI Honours of Excellence Awards, Raph is also a Fearless Photographers Award winner, Shutterfest Print Competition Award winner, and a PPOC award recipient, with images selected for both National and Regional Loan Collections across Canada.
Play Board Games for Charity
Play Board Games for Charity
Frantz Fanon, Race, and Social Pathology
Frantz Fanon, Race, and Social Pathology
In a moment in which anti-migrant rhetoric, ethnonationalism, and authoritarian populisms are on the rise, it becomes increasingly important that political theorists do more than offer a moral indictment of racism and xenophobia. In this talk, I contend that Frantz Fanon’s sociogenic approach to the critique of ‘race’ and racialization makes a valuable contribution, even in postcolonial conjunctures that have moved beyond colonialism’s crude Manichean binaries. I read Fanon as a diagnostician of the social pathologies produced by colonialism and white supremacy, showing how he worked from the colonized subject’s experiences of inferiorization and the colonizer’s experiences of racial superiority and *self-mystification* to advance a negative critique of racial hierarchies. Sarah Bufkin https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/gov/bufkin-sarah Assistant Professor in Political Theory Department of Political Science and International Studies University of Birmingham **About the Speaker:** My research sits at the intersection of antiracist political theory and Critical Theory, including that of the German Frankfurt School, French poststructuralism, and the British Birmingham School of Cultural Studies. I am currently working on a book project focused on Frantz Fanon's sociogenic method of antiracist critique. Drawing in part on my doctoral thesis, I argue that the failure to theorize 'race' has substantial consequences for continental political theory including but not limited to understanding the reproduction of racial injustice. I have also written on the politics of voice and visibility in the U.S. and Northern Ireland. More broadly, I am interested in feminist thought, social epistemology, and continental philosophies of self and Other. **\* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \*** This is a talk with audience Q&A presented by the University of Toronto's Centre for Ethics that is free to attend and open to the public. The talk will also be streamed online with live chat here [to be posted]. About the Centre for Ethics (http://ethics.utoronto.ca): The Centre for Ethics is an interdisciplinary centre aimed at advancing research and teaching in the field of ethics, broadly defined. The Centre seeks to bring together the theoretical and practical knowledge of diverse scholars, students, public servants and social leaders in order to increase understanding of the ethical dimensions of individual, social, and political life. In pursuit of its interdisciplinary mission, the Centre fosters lines of inquiry such as (1) foundations of ethics, which encompasses the history of ethics and core concepts in the philosophical study of ethics; (2) ethics in action, which relates theory to practice in key domains of social life, including bioethics, business ethics, and ethics in the public sphere; and (3) ethics in translation, which draws upon the rich multiculturalism of the City of Toronto and addresses the ethics of multicultural societies, ethical discourse across religious and cultural boundaries, and the ethics of international society. The Ethics of A.I. Lab at the Centre For Ethics recently appeared on a list of 10 organizations leading the way in ethical A.I.: https://ocean.sagepub.com/blog/10-organizations-leading-the-way-in-ethical-ai
🎬Movie: Reminders of Him  -  Food & Drinks after the movie 🍿!
🎬Movie: Reminders of Him - Food & Drinks after the movie 🍿!
🎬 Let’s Go to the Movies (and Actually Talk… or Not) Whether you're a film nerd, popcorn enthusiast, or just looking for a chill night out with interesting people — this one's for you. We’re heading out to see a movie together, then grabbing food or drinks after. If the film's great (or terrible), we’ll probably talk about it forever. If it’s just okay, we’ll talk about it for 10 minutes and move on to everything else — books, dating apps, weird dreams, how Toronto keeps getting more expensive, etc. The vibe is relaxed, friendly, and not too serious. No film degree needed. No icebreakers. No pressure to “perform.” Just come enjoy the film, connect with some thoughtful people, and see where the night goes Click here to watch trailer! 🎞️ **Movie Title + Trailer:**[ \[Click here to watch trailer!\]](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i36Zw32GfRQ) 📖 **📖 Plot Summary:** After serving a five-year prison sentence, Kenna returns to her hometown to reconnect with her young daughter. However, rebuilding relationships proves challenging, and everyone in her daughter's life seems determined to keep Kenna out. Local bar owner Ledger Ward offers a glimmer of hope, and as Kenna and Ledger grow closer, they must navigate the risks their romance poses. To build a brighter future, Kenna must confront her past mistakes and find a path toward healing. *** ### 🗓️ **Event Details** 📍 **Meetup Time:** 6:30 PM ....I will only wait 5mins 🎬 **Movie Start Time:** 6:50pm ⏱️ **Runtime:** 2 hours 📌 **Meetup Spot:** I will be standing at the top of the escalator wearing my Moose Hat! 🎟️ **Cost:** * **$11.50** for *CineClub* members * **$16.00** regular admission 👉 You are responsible for buying your own ticket. **🪑 Reserved Seating:** You must buy your ticket *before* signing up. You'll be asked where you're sitting so we can all sit together! However, members are welcome to sit anywhere that works for them. 🎫 Buy your ticket here: [https://www.cineplex.com](https://www.cineplex.com) 📍🪑 **Where I will be sitting:** I will be in ROW "H" SEAT "17" 🍿 **After the Movie:** Yes, we’re heading out after! It’s not just a movie night — it’s a social night. Let's talk, laugh, and dissect every plot twist. *** ### ✅ **Before You Sign Up** * Please **buy your ticket first** — seating is limited! * When signing up, let us know your **seat number** so we can try to group everyone together. * You can still sign up or just **show up on the day** if you’re not sure you can make it — we’re flexible! 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:** [Click here to join](#) 🎟️ **Join Cineplex’s CineClub for discounts**: [https://www.cineplex.com/cineclub](https://www.cineplex.com/cineclub) 🎁 **Get your SCENE Card** for free movies and points: [https://www.scene.ca](https://www.scene.ca) *** ### 🎥 **A Quick Word About Movie Etiquette** We love a great film experience. Please: * Turn off your phone * Don’t talk during the movie * Be respectful of others Repeat offenders will be removed from the group — we take our cinema seriously (but with snacks). *** ### 👥 **About the Group** This event is open to everyone — single, not single, shy, social, new in town or a long-time local. We're a group for people who love movies *and* making real connections. We also do walks, hikes, restaurants, arts & culture — come be part of it! 🎬 **Organized by:** Mathew 📧 Questions? Reach out: **torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**
Friday Road Trip to Niagara Falls: Glass Tiger & Trooper Live! $50 total
Friday Road Trip to Niagara Falls: Glass Tiger & Trooper Live! $50 total
🎸🚗 **Friday Road Trip to Niagara Falls: Glass Tiger & Trooper Live!** 🚗🎸 **Friday, March 13** Join us for an epic Friday night road trip to **Niagara Falls** to see two legendary Canadian rock bands — **Glass Tiger** and **Trooper** — live at Fallsview Casino Resort! This is a perfect excuse for a fun evening getaway filled with classic hits, great company, and zero driving stress. We’ll cruise together in a **Kia Soul**, equipped with **snow tires** and **SiriusXM** to set the road-trip soundtrack. Depending on traffic , we may have a bit of time for sightseeing before the show *** ### 🎶 **About the Show** **Glass Tiger**, known for massive hits like *“Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)”* and *“Someday,”* teams up with **Trooper**, the high-energy rockers behind classics like *“We’re Here for a Good Time”* and *“Raise a Little Hell.”* Expect a nostalgic, high-energy night celebrating iconic Canadian rock. 🔗 **Event details:** [https://fallsviewcasinoresort.com/events-and-promotions/schedule-of-events/glass-tiger-trooper.html](https://fallsviewcasinoresort.com/events-and-promotions/schedule-of-events/glass-tiger-trooper.html) *** ### 🕓 **Schedule** * **4:00 PM** – Depart Toronto from outside Christie Station * **8:00 PM** – Concert starts * **\~12:00 AM (Midnight)** – Return to Toronto *** ### 🚗 **What’s Included** * 🎟️ Concert ticket * 🚘 Round-trip transportation in a Kia Soul * 🎶 SiriusXM music for the drive *** ### 💲 **Cost** **$50 total** (includes ticket and transportation) 👉 **Payment required in advance** Please e-transfer $50 to: nicolasbello@yahoo.com Your spot is confirmed once payment is received. *** Space is limited. Please RSVP **only if you’re fully committed**, as tickets and transportation are booked in advance. Let’s kick off the weekend with a great concert, a smooth road trip, and some classic Canadian rock! 🎸✨
Let’s have coffee
Let’s have coffee
Let’s sit together and have coffee :))
🎭💬 Game Night: The Social Edition – Play, Laugh, Connect! 🏆
🎭💬 Game Night: The Social Edition – Play, Laugh, Connect! 🏆
***Ready to ditch small talk and dive into some seriously fun social games?*** Join us for an evening packed with laughter, friendly competition, and creative chaos! This isn’t your average game night — it’s a **social playground** where everyone gets involved, teams clash in good fun, and every round brings something exciting and unexpected. **🧩 What’s in the lineup?** 🧱 **Hands-On, Physical Games**: * **Connect Four Face-Off** – outthink your opponent, four moves at a time * **Jenga: Wobble Battle** – steady hands win, one block at a time * **Building Blocks Showdown -** build and stack Legos * **Body Talk** – communicate using only body language * **And More!** 🧠 **Mental & Word Games** * **People’s Choice Showdown** – think *Family Feud*, but spicier * **Pictionary** – unleash your inner artist * **Story Wars** – craft wild tales on the fly * **The Great Divide** – take a stand and defend it * **Truth Quest** – get real… or ridiculous * **Forbidden Words** – fast-paced, brain-twisting wordplay **🔥 Why come?** Because you’ll laugh. You’ll think. You’ll act out something embarrassing. And most importantly — you’ll meet awesome people who love a good game night as much as you do. **💡 Come prepared to:** * Jump in and participate — this is not a spectator sport! * Bring your quick wit, open mind, and sense of humour. * Expect surprises, twists, and maybe even a few friendly rivalries. **Where to Meet (MADO Cafe at the Food Hall inside The Well):** * The easiest way to get to the venue is to make your way to La Plume restaurant or The Dorset restaurant and turn towards the statue then take the stairs to the lower level. * Shoppers will be on the right and across from Shoppers will be an entrance to The Well's food court. * Make a left and you should see the long tables and MADO cafe. * **We'll meet at the long tables in front of MADO Cafe** **Get ready for a night of connection, creativity, and competitive fun. RSVP now — and may the most social gamer win! 🎭✨**

Scriptwriting Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Saturday Writing Meetup – near Bloor-Yonge
Saturday Writing Meetup – near Bloor-Yonge
\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.
Shut Up & Write — West Queen West (1.5 hours)
Shut Up & Write — West Queen West (1.5 hours)
Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other’s work. **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) . Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.
In-Person Writing Sprints
In-Person Writing Sprints
Struggling with motivation and focus as you hammer away on your manuscript at home? Want to join a community of writers as we embrace the joys and pains (mostly pains) of writing together? Bring your laptop, pen & paper, old-school typewriter, or futuristic writing gadget, and join an enthusiastic community of science fiction and fantasy writers as we work on our current projects in the same space. The format will be similar to our online writing sprints: 30-minute blocks of focused, quiet writing time (the sprints), interspersed with breaks where we can chat, ask questions, and share our writing experiences.
48-Hour Film Challenge – Come Create a Short Film With Us
48-Hour Film Challenge – Come Create a Short Film With Us
I’m participating in a **48-hour short film challenge**, where a team has just two days to write, shoot, and finish a short film. This meetup is for anyone who wants to **experience the process of making a film from scratch**. You’re welcome whether you want to: • act in the film • help with filming or ideas • see how filmmaking works • or simply hang out and watch the creative process unfold Our style is **very indie** — small team, simple gear, and lots of creativity. Even if you’ve never been on a film set before, this is a great chance to **see how a movie comes together in real time**. Film lovers are very welcome. Location: Chaffe Coffee Corner 2060 Ellesmere Rd Toronto, ON M1H 2V6 Inside Lazeez Shawarma.
Sunday Shut Up & Write!® in Sheppard-Yonge
Sunday Shut Up & Write!® in Sheppard-Yonge
We are now at **Yonge Sheppard Centre** in the **food court** near **Dazzle Mi**. We start a bit past 1pm, so if you're late, please find a seat and start writing -- we'd love to hear about your story or your day -- afterwards. :) **Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near **Dazzel Mi**. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.
IN-PERSON Saturday Meeting!
IN-PERSON Saturday Meeting!
The Toronto Sci-Fi & Fantasy Writers go to Indigo The Well!
The Toronto Sci-Fi & Fantasy Writers go to Indigo The Well!
The Toronto Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers have been invited to Indigo at The Well! https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/events/ The following Toronto spec-fic authors will be at Indigo for a book signing: * **J.P. Babb** (fantasy) - Reality's End: A Theory of Magic * **Brandon Butler** (science fiction) - The Science Fiction Tarot: Luminous Symbols of All the Tomorrows to Come * **K.M. McKenzie** (fantasy) - The Civilization * **Jesse McMinn** (fantasy) - Mero and the City of Ghosts; The Greencloak Wanderer * **Don Miasek** (science fiction) - Pale Grey Dot * **Y.M. Pang** (fantasy & science fiction) - All the Broken Blades: Epic Fantasy & Dark Fairy Tales * **P.G. Reynolds** (children's author) - Stitches in Time Travel; Lost Hallway: Where do Lost Things Go? * **Danny F. Santos** (fantasy) - A Veil for the Vanguard * **Colin Searle** \- The Call of Abaddon Come hang out, get a book or two signed, and chat about all things science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction! Want to ask Y.M. Pang about her recent Aurora Award victories? Go for it! Interested in learning the future of the Abaddon Cycle? Hassle Colin Searle! Curious if Brandon Butler actually believes in tarot cards? Now is your chance to find out!

Scriptwriting Events Near You

Connect with your local Scriptwriting community

Shut Up & Write! at Ridgetop Coffee and Tea
Shut Up & Write! at Ridgetop Coffee and Tea
**Looking for a group you can write with *whilst sipping your fave coffee*?** ☕✍️ Then come join **Shut Up & Write!** on **Saturday, March 21st from 1:30pm to 4:00pm** at **Ridgetop Coffee & Tea**! Whether you're cranking out a novel, journaling, looking for new friends, or just trying to get that stubborn paragraph right—we’ve got a cozy seat and a supportive group waiting for you! **No critiques, no peer review, no pressure—just a chill space to get words on the page.** 📝 **What to expect:** 1:30–2:00pm – Grab your coffee or tea, find your seat, and meet your fellow writers. 2:00pm–3:30pm – Silent, focused writing time 3:30–4:00pm – Debrief, celebrate any writing wins, commiserate on any obstacles, and head out feeling accomplished. **RSVP Info:** The room seats only 8 people comfortably! RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot!! If you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation **ASAP** so those on the wait list are able to RSVP and attend!!! **Meeting Room:** Enter the coffee shop, walk straight towards the play area and on your left you will see a meeting room just past the bathrooms. The room has a TV, white board, and walls are painted green. **What to Bring:** Whatever helps you focus, and be productive. There is a wall outlet at each end of the room, so you're able to bring your laptop to write. You're welcome to bring headphones if you enjoy listening to music while working. **Parking & Accessibility:** there is a large parking lot out front and it is free! There are no stair cases when entering the coffee shop or when inside. This coffee shop is incredibly spacious with many seating options. If you have any questions, please message me through MeetUp. I'm happy to help. **Dietary Information:** many GF, Vegan, and SF options. Just ask your barista when ordering for specifics! Can’t wait to see you there! 🎉
Shut Up & Write! at Gum Springs Library
Shut Up & Write! at Gum Springs Library
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! :)
[Hybrid] Reston Writers' Review
[Hybrid] Reston Writers' Review
Shut Up & Write! at Cascades Library
Shut Up & Write! at Cascades Library
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! :)
Movie Night with Liane: Project Hail Mary – Second Launch
Movie Night with Liane: Project Hail Mary – Second Launch
**NEW DETAILS! SEE BELOW FOR LUNCH PLANS AND MOVIE TIME!** **Monday, March 24** Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – One Loudoun 20575 East Hampton Plaza, Ashburn, VA 20147 Can’t make the **March 16 early screening**? No worries — the universe has provided a **second launch window**. Join Liane and your DTs friends for another opportunity to see *Project Hail Mary*, this time at **Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in One Loudoun** — with lunch beforehand! ### Lunch **Matchbox – One Loudoun** 44720 Thorndike Street, Ashburn **12:30 PM** [https://www.matchboxrestaurants.com/one-loudoun](https://www.matchboxrestaurants.com/one-loudoun) We’ll gather for lunch before heading over to the theater. Matchbox offers wood-fired pizzas, salads, sandwiches, and more — a perfect place to fuel up before our mission. ### Movie **Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – One Loudoun** 20575 Easthampton Plaza, Ashburn **2:10 PM showing** [https://drafthouse.com/theater/one-loudoun](https://drafthouse.com/theater/one-loudoun) Tickets are **discounted on Tuesdays — just $7**. You may purchase tickets in advance or buy them at the theater to avoid the online convenience fee. Participants are welcome to join us for **lunch, the movie, or both**. Whether you missed the first launch or just want another trip into deep space, here’s your chance to gather with your tribe and help save the universe.
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: The Secrets of Runes
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: The Secrets of Runes
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Secrets of Runes,”** on the origins, development, and interpretation of the runic script, with Lilla Kopár, runologist and a professor of medieval literature and culture at Catholic University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-rune-secrets](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-rune-secrets) .] The fame of runes outshines that of any other ancient script. They can be found not just on Viking Age rune stones, but on Bilbo’s door and as the Bluetooth logo on your cell phone. Runic script is commonly associated with magic, used by modern practitioners of neopaganism, and in recent decades has captured the imagination of filmmakers and video game designers. Yet most of us know little about the historical origins of runes and have no clue how to read or use them. Come to Crooked Run Fermentation in Sterling, Va., to get schooled on runic script with the help of Lilla Kopár, a veteran scholar of runes who has earned a following among Profs and Pints fans by giving fantastic talks on medieval monsters and Norse mythology. As someone who has carried out extensive field research on runes, published several articles on runic objects, and even appeared on the History Channel commenting on runes in America, she’s exceptionally qualified to introduce you to runology and the fascinating things that runes tell us. Dr Kopár will discuss the development of runic script from its humble origins on the borders of the Roman Empire in the first or second century CE, through its popularity in the Viking world, to its use and misuse in modern times. She’ll discuss how runes are a set of related alphabets that underwent changes over time and she’ll describe what inspired changes in this writing system and where and how runes were used in the medieval period. Her richly illustrated talk will highlight some of the most intriguing objects with runic inscriptions, from humble bone fragments to impressive rune stones, and offer insight into the scholarly methods of deciphering and interpreting runic inscriptions. We’ll also look at the function of the runic script from simple practical notes and memorial inscriptions to cipher-runes and magic. The most fun might be the in-class assignment, which will involve reading a few runic inscriptions and writing your name and other words in runes. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Part of Codex runicus, a rune manuscript written on animal skin and dating to about 1300 (University of Copenhagen / Wikimedia Commons).