Sheedy is guest at SpeakEasy Aug. 6

Monthly poetry series continues

TORRINGTON » On Sunday, Aug. 6, SpeakEasy welcomes acclaimed author, journalist, essayist, and playwright Jack Sheedy as the feature reader. The monthly poetry/spoken word series takes place 7-8:30 p.m. at The Performance Hub, 45 Main St., with open mic signup starting at 6:30 p.m.

Hosted by writer Patricia Martin, SpeakEasy showcases poetry, essays, memoirs, storytelling, monologues, and other spoken word pieces the first Sunday of every month. Each evening spotlights a guest feature poet/ writer, and provides five-minute open mic slots for other voices to be heard. And all ages are welcome; snacks are available and BYOB. There is a suggested donation of $5 for the event.

Sheedy, a resident of Harwinton, is the author of the memoir “Sting of the Heat Bug.” He is also an essayist and awardwinning journalist and playwright. Of note, Sheedy has also volunteered to be “Going over the Edge” by rappelling 111 feet down Torrington Towers on September 16th for the benefit initiative of the Northwest CT Arts Council.

“Sting of the Heat Bug” has been well received.

“An elegant reflection on growing up, deferring dreams, and understanding loss … A carefully constructed remembrance that offers poignancy without sacrificing sincerity,” – Kirkus Reviews.

“Jack is a wonderful writer who actively participates in and supports the arts, as evidenced by his ‘Going over the Edge’ for the arts council,” said Martin. “He is a captivating performer with a witty voice who has participated in the SpeakEasy open

mic since it began in March. It is now my pleasure to feature him in August.”

For more information or to recommend a feature reader, contact Martin at SpeakEasyTorrington@gmail.com or call 860-482-2556.

For more information on Jack Sheedy, visit: http://jacksheedy.homestead.com/ For details on “Going over the Edge, to participate, or to sponsor Jack Sheedy, visit www.OTEcwe.com/NWCT/

The Performance Hub is a nonprofit organization located at 45 Main Street, Torrington. For more information call 860-6895550 or visit www.performancehubusa.com.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Author Jack Sheedy is the featured writer at the next installment of SpeakEasy poetry series at the Performance HUB in Torrington on Aug. 6.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Sheedy’s memoir, “Sting of the Heat Bug.”