Tension & Release with Eric Braman

Understand the performance tools that honor the written word through an energized vocal delivery with practiced storyteller, poet, and theatre maker Eric Braman. As poets, storytellers, playwrights, and essayists, we intentionally take time and effort to establish tone, build energy, and generate movement in our writing. We understand how to take the reader on a brilliant journey. On the mic or stage, though, these works can lose their energy due to flat or rushed recitation. From pacing and articulation to intention and emphasis, you will walk away with new ways to prepare for open mics, story circles, and stage performances. This workshop is great for both writers and individuals who perform others’ work, such as actors, recitationists, and public speakers.

Attendees should bring a piece of writing (a medium-length poem or one to two paragraphs of a story/monologue) they would like to practice performing during the workshop. It is best to bring this printed on paper you are comfortable marking up (i.e., please avoid original or single copies).

Eric Braman (they/them) is a poet, theatre maker, educator, and public artist performing and showcasing work across the American west. They are the author of Bury Me in Cherry Blossoms and have also been published by High Shelf Press, Moon Tide Press, Qu Literary Magazine, The Coachella Review, and more. Eric has performed and had plays produced on stages across the United States, including the premiere of their autobiographical show To You / To Myself, which was an honorarium recipient at the 2022 Oregon Fringe Festival, and Shedding the Antlers, nominated for a 2024 BroadwayWorld Michigan Award. They were the 2025 Writer-in-Residence with Fishtrap, featured poet at the 2024 Oregon Poetry Out Loud State Contest, and a featured artist in the 2024 Cultural Currents public art initiative in Eugene. Eric has been selected as the 2026 Artist in Residence with City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park in Idaho. Learn more at www.ericbraman.com.

Is the registration fee an obstacle for you to attend this workshop? Fishtrap offers a limited number of scholarships to help with the cost. Contact Program Director Mike Midlo for more information. mike@fishtrap.org