Writers from the Underground

Join us to explore the secret Heritage Room, a crypt-like space underneath the Metropolitan United Church where few Torontonians have ventured. As part of this special Doors Open Toronto presented by Great Gulf celebration, we’re allowing you access, and we’ve invited our own crew of writers and poets to haunt it with underground-themed readings and talks throughout the day.

Look for appearances by acclaimed authors Lillian Allen, David Bezmozgis,Wayson Choy, Karen Connelly, Anthony De Sa, Marina Nemat, Shyam Selvadurai,Ann Shin, Antanas Sileika, Farzana Doctor, as well as a roster of writers from Diaspora Dialogues’ mentorship programs. They’ll read excerpts from their works, as well as selections of works that have been censored or banned, both at home and abroad, and speak about underground writing. Gain access to this secret subterranean space in the Metropolitan United Church, and stop in for the aural unearthing of works—formerly or currently—buried by repressive governments, schools, and religious organizations the world over.

Emerging writers include: Sanjay Talreja (2012), Deepa Shankaran (2013), Mia Herrera (2013), Hawa Yusuf (2014), Alvis Choi (2014), James Papoutsis (2014),Pratap Reddy (2012), Jo Simalaya Alcampo (2014), and Mollie Coles Tonn.

When: Saturday, May 24
Time: 11 am–4 pm
Where: Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen Street East
Cost: Free!