Tuesday Online French - English Conversation Group

There is no better way to practice your foreign language than by conversing with native speakers, and WICE can help you do just that.

We meet online (Zoom) every Tuesday. Participants are divided into small groups of 5-6 members. We converse 45 minutes in French and 45 minutes in English. Conversations are free-form and address topics of interest to the individual group members.

The group is open to WICE members at all language levels. However, to get the most out of the conversations, an intermediate level in both languages is helpful. 

Participation is free for WICE members.

To participate, contact Mike Franks at: mike.franks@wice-paris.org

SMALL MOMENTS, EPIC TALES: The Art of Growing Essays into Memoirs

Course Description:

Join a supportive community of international writers to learn how to transform your personal essays into compelling book-length memoirs.

In this intimate ten-week workshop, explore how small moments can blossom into powerful, full-length works by examining the way celebrated authors have successfully expanded their essays into memorable memoirs.

Also, using practical tools such as close reading, discussion, and workshopping your own work, learn to identify the universal themes in your personal narratives and develop them into longer works.

Administrative Notes:

This course is also open to nonmember participants at a slightly higher cost, but a 3-month WICE membership is included.

This class is on ZOOM.

About the Instructor: 

With degrees in journalism and creative writing, Jennifer Lauck is the New York Times and London Times bestselling writer of the memoirs Blackbird, Still Waters, Found and The Summer of ’72.

She has also published a series of interlocking essays in the collection titled Show Me the Way and has had essays published in several anthology collections, including Knitting Yarns. She teaches creative writing in the US and abroad.

• https://blackbirdstudiopdx.com/
• https://jenniferlauck.substack.com/

Friday In-Person French - English Conversation Group

Looking for a relaxed and welcoming place to practice and improve your French or English? WICE conversation groups allow you to practice your language skills in an easy, convivial atmosphere with native speakers.

The Friday group meets upstairs at the Le Nelsons, near Les Halles, from 15:00 - 16:30. Participants are divided into small groups of 5 - 6 people, and the conversations are 45 minutes in French and 45 minutes in English. The subjects are of  the group’s choosing. Though an intermediate level of English and French is expected, there is a wide range of abilities.

There is no need to register, just show up and look for the WICE tables upstairs.

Le Nelsons, 16 Rue Coquillière, 75001. Metro lines 1/4/7/11/14, RER A, B, D, and buses 74, 85

Participation is free with WICE membership.

Friday Online French - English Conversation Group

There is no better way to practice your foreign language than by conversing with native speakers, and WICE can help you do just that.

We meet online (Zoom) every Friday evening (Paris time). Participants are divided into small groups of 5-6 members. We converse 45 minutes in French and 45 minutes in English. Conversations are free-form and address topics of interest to the individual group members.

The group is open to WICE members at all language levels. However, to get the most out of the conversations, an intermediate level in both languages is helpful. 

Participation is free for WICE members.

To participate, contact Mike Franks at: mike.franks@wice-paris.org

Course Description

This course is designed for beginners, either for first-time learners or those who want to refresh their French at a basic level.

Throughout the course students will acquire the essential French skills (writing, speaking, pronunciation) needed to function in everyday-life situations.

Each class will take place in a lively and friendly atmosphere that encourages students' enjoyment and active participation. Along with  linguistic exercises, references to French culture and gastronomy will also be presented.

The course meets twice a week for 90 minutes (a total of 3 hrs/week) and is conducted in French. When necessary, supplementary explanations may be given in English.

Tuition reduced to reflect the many spring holidays.
The class does not meet on French holidays: 21 April; 1, 8, 29 May; 9 June.
Contact Languages@wice-paris.org with any questions

About the instructor

Nathalie Allain is a native French speaker with a master’s degree in FLE (French as a foreign language) who is also fluent in English, German, and Japanese. To future students, she says: “In addition to textbooks, I like to make French come alive by using the language to discover the culture and history of Paris in one field trip each month.”

Tuition reduced to reflect the many spring holidays.
The class does not meet on French holidays: 21 April; 1, 8, 29 May; 9 June.
Contact Languages@wice-paris.org with any questions.

 

Course Description

This lively French course will improve your ability to deal with an array of everyday life situations in French. This level is for students who understand simple, straightforward information and can express themselves in familiar contexts and take part in an everyday conversation on simple, predictable topics.

Using interactive methods to ensure learner engagement and lasting progress, the course will help you develop your vocabulary, oral and written expression, comprehension, and pronunciation.

Geared for learners with an intermediate knowledge of French, the 90-minute class will be held in French, twice a week for a total of 3 hours per week.

Tuition reduced to reflect the many spring holidays. The class will not meet on the following dates: 21 April; 1, 8, 29 May; 9 June.
Contact Languages@wice-paris.org with any questions.

About the Instructor

Audrey Charmont has a Masters in Marketing and Communications as well as a DAEFLE (French as a Foreign Language). She has years of French teaching experience in France and abroad.

FICTION WORKSHOP II

Course Description:

This popular weekly fiction workshop (short or long fiction) is returning! It includes craft conversation on topics such as dialogue, story structure, character development, pacing and plot based on current best practices in creative writing.

Over the course of eight sessions, you will workshop two of your own pieces (either novel chapters or short stories) for supportive and rigorous group feedback.

Administrative Notes:

** This class is for experienced writers and admission is by application: Send five double-spaced pages of your best prose to: creativewriting@wice-paris.org **

This course is also open to nonmember participants at a slightly higher cost, but a 3-month WICE membership is included.

About the Instructor: 

Shannon Cain is the author of The Necessity of Certain Behaviors, winner of the 2001 Drue Heinz Literature Prize. Her stories have been recognized by the U.S. National Endowment for the Arts, the O. Henry Prize, and the Pushcart Prize. Founder of La Maison Baldwin, a residency program for Black writers, she has taught creative writing at the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and in the MFA program at Bennington College.

Course Description

This English Guided Discussion Group is open to people who have a strong intermediate or advanced level of English. Our group leaders suggest interesting topics and readings prior to each group discussion. If you enjoy reading, speaking, presenting, and engaging in diverse topic-centered discussions, this group is for you. In addition to learning and developing through guided conversation with other participants, you will also have the opportunity to get personalized constructive feedback. The group speaks only in English for one
hour.

Tuition has been reduced to reflect the many spring holidays. The class will not meet on 1, 8, and 29 May.

Ce groupe de discussion guidée anglaise est ouvert aux personnes qui parlent anglais presque couramment (niveaux intermédiaire-avancé ou avancé). Nos animateurs proposent des sujets intéressants et des textes avant chaque groupe. Si vous appréciez la lecture, la communication, la présentation et la participation à des discussions
diverses, ce groupe est pour vous. En plus d’apprendre et se développer à travers des discussions guidées avec d'autres participants, vous aurez également la possibilité d'obtenir des
commentaires constructifs. Ce groupe de discussion guidée est un endroit idéal pour rencontrer d’autres passionnés de la langue anglais. Le groupe ne parle qu’anglais pendant une heure.

Note: A Zoom link will be provided the day before the
course begins. Be sure to check your email for it

Facilitators

The group will be led by several native English speakers of varying interests and backgrounds.

Course Description

This French Guided Discussion Group is open to people who have a strong intermediate or advanced level of French. Group leaders provide participants with engaging weekly readings on a wide range of topics prior to each dynamic and fast-paced seminar. If you enjoy reading, speaking, presenting, and engaging in varied, topic-centered discussions, this group is for you. In addition to learning through focused conversation with other participants, you will also have the opportunity to get personalized constructive feedback. The French Guided Discussion group speaks only in French for 90 minutes which gives participants an excellent space to practice.

Tuition is reduced to reflect the many spring holidays. Classes do not meet on the following French holidays: 1, 8, 29 May.
A Zoom link will be provided the day before the course begins. Be sure to check your email for it
Contact Languages@wice-paris.org with any questions

About the Instructors

Brice Dardel and Brigitte Le Quéré, both native French speakers with extensive experience leading discussions, alternate weekly sessions.

Course Description

This dynamic course will fine tune your abilities in an array of everyday life situations in French. Students at this level have the ability to express themselves on a range of topics. They are comfortable in most situations and have a strong vocabulary with few mistakes. Using interactive methods to ensure learner engagement and lasting progress, the course will facilitate your progress in vocabulary development, oral and written expression, comprehension, and pronunciation. Geared for learners with prior advanced-intermediate French, this course will be held in French once a week for 90 minutes.

About the Instructor

Audrey Charmont has a Masters in Marketing and Communications as well as a DAEFLE (French as a Foreign Language). She has French teaching experience in France and abroad.

Course Description

This dynamic course will fine tune your abilities in an array of everyday life situations in French. Students at this level have the ability to express themselves on a range of topics. They are comfortable in most situations and have a strong vocabulary with few mistakes. Using interactive methods to ensure learner engagement and lasting progress, the course will facilitate your progress in vocabulary development, oral and written expression, comprehension, and pronunciation. Geared for learners with prior advanced-intermediate French, this course will be held in French once a week for 90 minutes.

About the Instructor

Audrey Charmont has a Masters in Marketing and Communications as well as a DAEFLE (French as a Foreign Language). She has French teaching experience in France and abroad.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: For this advanced French course, you will watch a film at home (available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Canal Plus, Orange, YouTube and other platforms) before a lively and engaging discussion in class. Each month a new film provides a basis for an immersive lesson with authentic spoken language and cultural reference points. If you love movies, there’s no more enjoyable way to increase vocabulary, improve conversational skills, and deepen your understanding of French cinema and culture. 

Each discussion will focus on analyzing the film from different angles:

• Creation; production; and reception, both critical and commercial
• Screenplay, direction, and artistic collaborations such as script, cinematography, acting, and music
• Specific features in the director's filmography and its place in the French cinema of his/her era.

Spring trimester films:

• «  Le genou de Claire » d’Eric Rohmer (1970) avec Jean-Claude Brialy, Béatrice Romand, Fabrice Lucchini

Un des premiers rôles de Fabrice Lucchini, encore adolescent !

L’été sur les bords du lac d’Annecy. Jérôme, un diplomate, éveille l’amour d’une lycéenne, Laura. Lui-même n’est pas insensible au charme d’une autre adolescente, Claire. A l’occasion d’un orage sentimental, Jérôme satisfait son désir de caresser le genou de Claire. Le lendemain, il repart vers la femme qu’il doit épouser.

Images lumineuses d’un univers calme et serein, où les personnages ont le loisir de s’écouter parler et d’analyser leurs sentiments. Une mise en scène belle et harmonieuse qui enchante par sa simplicité, sa limpidité et son aisance.

•   « Le goût des autres » d’Agnès Jaoui (1999) avec Jean-Pierre Bacri, Alain Chabat, Anne Alvaro, Agnès Jaoui

Castella, chef d’entreprise de province, s’ennuie auprès de son épouse. Lorsqu’il rencontre Clara, une comédienne, il tombe sous son charme. Mais avec ses allures d’homme inculte, il ne sait comment la séduire. Un film drôle, ironique, sensible. Une comédie de mœurs qui dépeint le monde contemporain et ses travers.

• « Les choses qu’on dit, les choses qu’on fait » d’Emmanuel Mouret (2020) avec Vincent Macaigne, Emilie Dequenne, Camélia Jordana, Niels Schneider

"En amour, quelle est la règle ?"
Difficile de résumer l’intrigue de ce film. Mais à l’écran, tous ces emboîtements amoureux s’enchaînent avec fluidité. Le cinéaste persiste dans ses marivaudages, l’humeur folâtre en moins, avec une gravité déjà à l’œuvre dans le cruel  film précédent de Mouret « Mademoiselle de Joncquières ». Si des personnages comme Sandra ou Gaspard suivent leurs penchants sans s’embarrasser de scrupules, le film s’arrête plus volontiers sur les timides en plein conflit intérieur, comme Daphné ou Maxime, qui s’interdisent un désir qui pourrait blesser l’autre. "En amour, quelle est la règle ?", se tourmente Maxime, que le cinéaste prend un malin plaisir à plonger dans les situations les plus alambiquées. Dirigés avec la minutie d’un chef de chœur, les personnages, magnifiquement incarnés par le quatuor d’acteurs, évoluent les uns vis-à-vis des autres avec retenue, tandis que la bande-son romantique, elle, s’emballe, de Chopin à Haydn. Dans cette lumineuse et mélancolique "ode à notre inconstance" et aux tempêtes internes qu’elle provoque, le cinéaste atteint une plénitude inédite et revigore avec brio les clichés fleur bleue, la célèbre scène d’adieux sur un quai de gare se refaisant une jeunesse dans le TER au départ d’Avignon.

Hommage à Emilie Dequenne, actrice belge morte à 43 ans le 16 mars 2025

• ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: A graduate of Sciences Po Paris and ESCP Business School with a master's in political philosophy, Pascale Borenstein co-founded the first professional training course for screenwriters, the Conservatoire Européen d'Ecriture Audiovisuelle (CEEA), which she subsequently directed. From 2004 to 2017, she was Director of International Relations and Continuing Education at France's national film school, La Fémis, where she collaborated with the film departments at NYU, Columbia University, and Calarts. Pascale is the co-author of "Histoire de films français" published by Bordas and a lecturer at l'ICART (École du Management Culturel & Marché de l'Art).

Course description

"I have a good grasp of French, but when I speak, people often ask me to repeat myself -- or even switch to English. It’s so frustrating!" 

Sound familiar? Then our pronunciation class is for you. In six short weeks, you will noticeably improve your ability to communicate in every area of your French life. In each 90-minute class, you’ll get …

- 30 minutes work on the French phonemes. Sometimes our mother tongue acts as a filter so we can’t even hear a sound, never mind reproduce it correctly. Through listening exercises (poetry, music...) you will learn to produce key French sounds by paying attention to your lips, tongue, vibration, and more.

 
- 30 minutes using typical dialogues from daily life to become familiar with the rhythmic-melodic scheme of French and how to use it yourself. 

- 30 minutes for spontaneity and fun where we put into practice what we have learned during the session. We will read texts aloud and perhaps even sing!

About the instructor

Audrey Charmont has a Masters in Marketing and Communications as well as a DAEFLE (French as a Foreign Language). She has French teaching experience in France and abroad.

Course Description

Discover and discuss masterpieces of American cinema in this class for intermediate and advanced English speakers. You’ll watch a film at home on streaming, or borrow the DVD from your local library, before a lively and engaging discussion in class. You’ll be assigned one scene to watch at least three times! Every month you’ll view a film from an influential director so you’ll come to know the stylistic hallmarks of favorite genres and filmmakers.

If you love the movies, this course is an enjoyable way to increase vocabulary, get comfortable with idiomatic expressions, improve your conversational skills, and deepen your understanding of American culture and cinema.

Films for the Spring 2025 trimester:

In 1967, the United States was marked by major racial unrest in cities like Newark, New Jersey and Detroit, Michigan, condemning police brutality and the many other injustices perpetrated against Black people and communities. Also in 1967, the first momentous national protest took place in the US Capital against the Vietnam War. We will be discussing three landmark films from that year.

Two for the Road by Stanley Donen, with Audrey Hepburn and Albert Finney, is a romantic comedy-drama that blends Hollywood glamour, French New Wave editing, and British cynicism. Combining the disparate talents of movie star Audrey Hepburn, British bad boy Albert Finney, writer Fredric Raphael (Darling) and composer Henry Mancini, producer-director Stanley Donen (Charade, and Gene Kelly's collaborator on On the Town and Singin' in the Rain) tells the story of a contentious marriage by interweaving a series of road trips through scenic France that the couple has taken during their twelve-year relationship.

Bonnie and Clyde by Arthur Penn, with Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, is a seminal film of the decade and one of the highest-grossing films of 1967. It’s a story of the historic outlaws and folk heroes, Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker, who start as small-time crooks and grow into big-time bank robbers. The film was one of the first New Hollywood films, which turned away from classical film-making by using daring stylistic elements and exhibiting unconventional social mores. The film was nominated for nine Oscars, and won two, for Best Supporting Actress (Estelle Parsons) and Best Cinematography.

In the Heat of the Night by Norman Jewison, with Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger, and music by Quincy Jones, is a film about a Black police detective from Philadelphia, who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation in a small Mississippi town. The film was nominated for seven Oscars, and won five, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Actor for Rod Steiger.

About the instructor:

Ellen Feldman grew up in Philadelphia and currently lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She holds a Ph.D. in cinema studies from New York University and has taught film studies at the State University of New York, Geneseo campus, and Brooklyn College.

WICE Board of Directors Meeting

Join fellow WICE members for coffee on Tuesday mornings. And, if the weather permits, perhaps a walk through the Luxembourg Gardens afterwards.

Members meet at Brasserie le Bullier, named after the famous ball located opposite the "Port Royal" station, to which the whole of Paris once flocked.

Offering a beautiful interior and exterior space, where everyone's privacy is preserved, Le Bullier gives each guest the feeling of the warmth of a Parisian salon and the decor of the Brasseries of yesteryear.

WICE member Brise Rickey, who has lived in the neighborhood a few years, hosts the Tuesday morning coffees twice a month. It's a great opportunity to hang out with fellow WICE members, make new friends, and enjoy those special experiences unique to Paris.

Open to all WICE members, but registration is required. This is a public restaurant, and anyone can go, but WICE reserves 14 seats together, and if you don't register you may not be able to sit with us.

Brasserie le Bullier is located at 22 Av. de l'Observatoire, 75014. It can be reached by RER B (Port Royal), metro lines 4 and 6 (Raspail), and busses 38, 82, 91.

Did you know that cheese has a season? Goat cheeses specifically are at their very best in spring, so now is the perfect time to discover the wonderful world of chèvres. 

France is the world's biggest producer of goat cheese, and a whopping 16 of its 47 AOP cheeses are made with goat's milk, not to mention the hundreds of non-AOP goat cheeses made nationwide. Within the category, there's loads of variety in shape, texture, and of course flavor. Over the course of a two-hour workshop with cheese expert Emily Monaco, you'll learn how goat cheese became popular in France following an 8th Century invasion, why some chèvres have a gray rind, and how goat cheese varies from region to region. And of course, you'll taste five of France's best-known and under-the-radar chèvres from across the hexagon.

Price: €35, which includes the cheeses.

About the Instructor:

Born and raised in New York City, Emily Monaco has been living in France since 2007. An Academy of Cheese Associate, international cheese judge, and die-hard cheese lover, she works as a journalist covering cheese (and other tasty specialties) for publications including Atlas Obscura and the BBC.

Can you imagine a life where your mind is a source of peace and strength, where calmness flows through you like a gentle river even amidst daily challenges? What if you had the power to observe your thoughts without judgement, steady your emotions, and tap into a deeper well of wisdom within yourself?

Meditation is a grounding practice that can help you to know yourself better, as well as appreciating yourself and others more.  Regular practice can help your body regulate itself more effectively.  For example, it can help with getting a more relaxed and sound sleep or decreasing the severity and/or frequency of migraine headaches.  It’s a path toward true mental clarity, emotional resilience, and enriched creativity.

WICE members can join us for an hour of vipassana meditation practice.  Vipassana is a mindfulness practice, which focuses on direct observation of sensations in the body to cultivate self-awareness and mindfulness.  It is practiced as a non-sectarian technique, open to anyone seeking to understand the nature of their mind and body.  We’ll do a few minutes of self-introduction, followed by 15 minutes of guided meditation.  Then we’ll do 30 minutes of silent practice, followed by 15 minutes of conversational reflection.  Whatever level you are, beginner to advanced, you are welcome! Hosted by Lori Zeller, who has been meditating on and off for over 40 years, all the while taking classes, joining groups and going to retreats. 

Please note: There is a remote option for those who would like to join us over Zoom.

Unleash Your Creativity in the Heart of Paris

Step outside the studio and into the city as we take drawing and color into the open air. This relaxed outdoor session is designed to inspire creativity, encourage playful experimentation, and help you observe the world with an artist’s eye. Perfect for those looking to practice sketching and painting in a casual, supportive setting.

What to Expect:

• Urban Sketching & Color Play: Capture the energy of Paris through quick sketches and expressive watercolor studies.
• Creative Freedom: Explore techniques in a more spontaneous way, using what you’ve learned in a fun, pressure-free environment.
• Guidance & Feedback: The instructor will be available to offer tips, answer questions, and provide inspiration as you work.
• Connect with Fellow Artists: Enjoy a shared artistic experience, exchanging ideas and techniques with other participants.

Requirements:

This session is open to all levels. Participants from the

first class can bring their materials, and new attendees

should bring their own sketchbook, pencils, and colors.

We suggest you wear comfortable clothing and consider bringing a yoga mat or towel if you’d like to sit on the grass.

This session is open to all, whether you’re joining for the first time or continuing from our 'Foundations of Drawing & Color' workshop, where we covered the basics of technique and composition.

About the Instructor

Andrea Ipaktchi is an award-winning artist, performer, writer and traveler from Connecticut and based in Paris. Her art incorporates mixed media such as ink, encaustic, and printmaking techniques. She explore themes of love, loss, belonging, and transformation.This results in moody, figurative pieces. She also creates comics. She holds a BFA degree from Parsons School of Design.

https://www.illustratrice.com

____
Note: This course is open to non-WICE members at the slightly higher fee of 35€. This will include a 3-month membership to WICE. To register, please write to wice@wice-paris.org

 

The Marais is one of Paris' most dynamic neighborhoods, blending centuries-old architecture with a thriving contemporary art scene. This guided walk will take you through its charming streets, where you’ll discover a curated selection of art galleries—from internationally renowned institutions to hidden courtyard spaces. Along the way, you’ll gain insight into the history of the quartier, its artistic evolution, and the key players shaping today’s Parisian art world.

What to Expect:

• Discover the Paris Art Scene – Visit a mix of major contemporary galleries and lesser-known gems showcasing emerging and established artists.
• Learn About Art & Architecture – Explore the Marais' historic streets while uncovering the stories behind its galleries and their role in the art world.
• Demystify the Gallery Experience – Gain confidence navigating galleries, engaging with art professionals, and understanding how artworks are valued.
• Develop Your Artistic Eye – Discuss what makes an artwork stand out, question definitions of contemporary art, and refine your personal taste.

About the Instructor

   Caroline Etter is an art consultant and historian with over 25 years of experience in the Parisian art scene. A graduate of the Sorbonne, she began her career at the Villa Médicis in Rome before working for The Art Newspaper and the Bibliothèque nationale de France. Since then, she has curated exhibitions, managed galleries, and advised private and corporate collectors. She also teaches contemporary art at private schools and the University of Paris Cergy, helping audiences navigate the art world with confidence.

Each month, we come together to celebrate the friendships and community that make WICE special. Join us for an evening of lively discussions with fellow members, where you can share ideas, reflections, and experiences. Our Board of Directors is eager to hear your insights and visions for the future of WICE. Enjoy a nice selection of beverages and snacks, perfect for sparking conversation and connection. And don’t miss the chance to win our special door prize!

Come and celebrate our community – we look forward to seeing you there!

Note 1: Registration required. You can pay either online or at the door, although online payments are preferred. If you are having trouble registering, please contact wice@wice-paris.org

Le Molière is close to metro line 10 (Mabillon stop), metro line 4 (Odéon stop), and buses 80, 82.

10€ for regular members; free for new members and WICE volunteers.

See you there!

Discover the ancient art of Qi-Gong, a gentle yet powerful practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts. With a history spanning over 4,000 years, Qi-Gong (pronounced “chee-gong”) combines slow, mindful movements, controlled breathing, and focused intention to cultivate and balance the body’s vital energy, or “qi.”

In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll be introduced to foundational postures, flowing sequences, and breathing techniques designed to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to move with awareness and an open mind. Expect a calm, welcoming atmosphere.

Good to know: this practice will take place outdoors at Martin Luther King Park (17th arrondissement). In case of rain, the session will be cancelled and you will be credited for the next session in this series. You should wear light, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely, as well as comfortable shoes. There is no need for a mat. Qi-Gong is not a strenuous workout, but try not to eat a heavy meal within an hour of practice. Bring a water bottle.

Your instructor will be Emanuelle Garcia, who has studied Qi Gong for over 15 years as well as having practiced JKA Karate for more than 20 years. Emmanuelle is a French CQP-certified instructor. In her teaching, Emanuelle blends the discipline of martial arts with the fluidity and energy of Qi-Gong. This results in classes that are both dynamic and accessible to everyone. She has studied with two Qi-Gong masters whose teachings she carries forward as she continues to train during workshops and retreats.

Please note: although Emanuelle can speak some English, this class will be an immersive French experience. Come practice your language skills while you exercise !

The Poetry Playground: A Beginner's Journey

 “A poet is, before anything else, a     person who is passionately in love with   language.”     W. H. Auden

Note: The registration limit for this class has been reached. Please put your name on the waitlist and you will be contacted if a seat opens up.

Course Description:

If you’re passionate about, and fascinated by, words—from their deep meanings to their unique sounds to their typography on the page—but you've been intimidated by poetry, this three-hour workshop is for you.

We will look at a variety of poems, ranging in dates from a seventeenth-century sonnet by William Shakespeare to Diane Seuss’ un-rhymed sonnets published in 2021. We will also study free verse and its rich and long history, with examples including Emily Dickinson, Guillaume Apollinaire, John Keats, Sylvia Plath, and William Carlos Williams. We’ll discuss fundamental elements of poetry including structure, style and tone, voice, theme, sound and imagery.

Finally, we will use some of the poems as departure points for two prompts to get you writing.

Join us for a passionate and in-depth introduction to poetry—what it is and how it is—and share inspirations both on and off the page.

About the Instructor: 

Heather Hartley’s poetry collections include Adult Swim and Knock Knock, both published by Carnegie Mellon University Press. She was Paris Editor for Tin House magazine for over fifteen years.

Her short fiction, poems, essays and interviews have appeared in or on PBS Newshour, The Guardian, The Literary Review and other venues. She teaches creative writing at the University of Kent’s (UK) Paris School of Arts and Culture and has also taught at the American University of Paris and the University of Texas El Paso MFA program.

www.heatherhartleyink.com

Join fellow WICE members for coffee on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday mornings  of the month (and occasionally the 5th Tuesday) at Les Editeurs with hosts Mary Bartlett and Hilary Kaiser. It's a great opportunity to hang out with fellow WICE members, make new friends, and enjoy those special experiences unique to Paris.

Open to all WICE members, but registration is required. This is a public restaurant, and anyone can go, but WICE reserves 10 seats together, and if you don't register you may not be able to sit with us.

Also, it is expected that all attendees will purchase at least one beverage or other item appropriate for sitting around a café.

Les Editeurs is located at 4 Carrefour de l'Odéon, 75006. It can be reached by metro lines 4 and 10 (Odéon), and busses 58, 87, and 89.

Registration opens on Wednesday, 07 May 2025.

Montfort-l’Amaury is a very pretty, well kept, medieval town in the département of Yvelines. We will walk through old streets, visit a tall thin c.15 church, a ruined castle and beautiful cemetery. The trip will also include a walk along a country footpath around an old chateau. The composer Ravel lived Montfort-l’Amaury and we will pass his unusual house (though it will be closed to us as it is only open on weekends). The station is a 3.5 km walk from the town, along a pavement (there is a taxi rank outside the station for those who prefer this to walking). Montfort has a nice café in the town centre.

This visit is an informal walk around the town, Bryan will lead the way and share his knowledge of the town but it is not a formal guided tour. It is an opportunity for members to converse in French and English.

Meet at: ticket barrier for Line N at Gare de Montparnasse at 09:30. The ticket barrier for line N is on the ground floor of the station. Trains run every hour; we will be taking the train leaving at 09:58. 

The following Métro lines serve this station:- 4, 6, 12 and 13. 

About the leader: Bryan Harty has lived in the centre of Paris for 5 years. He is a member of WICE and likes to get out of the city to explore the countryside, if possible, in a bilingual group.

Major Barbara by George Bernard Shaw is a satirical play that explores themes of morality, wealth, and social responsibility. It critically examines the relationship between morality and capitalism, leaving the audience to ponder whether wealth and ethics can coexist.
The story follows Barbara Undershaft, a devoted Salvation Army officer who seeks to uplift the poor through charity and faith. Her estranged father, Andrew Undershaft, is a wealthy and pragmatic arms manufacturer who argues that poverty is best solved through power and industry. As Barbara grapples with the implications of her father’s philosophy, she ultimately reevaluates her beliefs, questioning the true sources of societal change. 

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The general concept of WICE play readings is that people are sent the script a few days beforehand, and when they arrive they pull straws for roles. Attendees sit around a living room and simply read their parts with as much theatrical flourish as they care to give (but there are no expectations of real acting).

The reading will take place at a member's apartment in the Marais. The address, door code, and phone number will be sent in the two reminder emails.

This will be the last play reading until September.