Andrea Thompson

Youth / School Workshops:

Andrea Thompson's classroom approach focuses on bringing poetry alive: from the page to the stage. Dynamic, engaging, and non-traditional, Andrea invokes elements of theatre and performance to infuse students with an enthusiasm for poetry and the spoken word.

School visits vary according to educators needs, and are suitable for both multi-class and smaller groups. Presentations can in incorporate recorded music ranging from hip-hop to reggae to jazz, as well as recordings of poets working in 'Slam', and other spoken word traditions.

Workshop sessions take students from blank page to finished poem; with a focus on helping them find their poetic voice, and write with passion about topics that are relevant to their own lives. Andrea helps students tap into their inner muse, banish writer's block, and learn the art of public speaking and performing their piece.   

Workshops help to improve students self-esteem, leaving them empowered and confident in their ability to express their thoughts and feelings; both on the page and out loud.

Grade Levels: 7 - 12

Student Feedback:

Andrea Thompson has been conducting workshops and readings for youth in Ontario and BC for over ten years. After each visit, she asks the students to write her a review. Here's what some of them had to say:

"Very riveting and moving- she brings poetry to life."                                                 

 "I always thought poetry was boring and lifeless, but after this presentation poetry seems intense, facinating..."                                                                               

 "Andrea really grabbed my attention with her energy and the rhythms of her work."                                                                                                                               "Her "Her topics made me reflect on my life ... issues that I have been through and am going through."                                                                                                                "Andre                                                                            

"She has inspired me to express myself in a similar way."

"Very inspiring- come back again!"

Finding Your Voice

A Workshop for Seniors:

Andrea Thompson's workshops bring poetry and story telling alive : from the page to the stage. Dynamic, engaging, and entertaining Andrea invokes elements of theatre and performance to infuse workshop participants with an enthusiasm for poetry and the spoken word.

Sessions take participants from blank page to finished poem; with a focus on helping people find their voice,  write with passion, and share their stories with courage and confidence.  Andrea helps participants tap into their inner muse, banish writer's block, and learn the art of public speaking, and build a sense of community. 

We all have a story tell.  Andrea’s workshops help people share those stories, both on the page and out loud.   Finding Your Voice is a workshop that leaves both individuals and communities empowered and enriched through the process of going inside and sharing what you find with those around you.