In the beginning, I started the Austin Writers Roulette in 2012 to sell my book, Tribe of One. I saw the self-publishing of my first fiction novel as my ticket to quit my day job and be a full-time writer/artist.
All I had to do was find places to read and people would clamor to buy the book. I quickly discovered the error of my thinking and pivoted to create my own event. After a while, I didn’t even bring copies of my book nor read excerpts from it.
The creative Austin soil was ripe for a monthly, theme-inspired spoken word and storytelling live show. From its humble beginnings in a transformed capoeira studio, the Roulette migrated to two bars, and finally landed at Malvern Books.
Not only did Malvern welcome the Roulette, but they unofficially co-produced the show in the form of advertising and recording the performances for prosperity’s sake.
After eight seasons, I brought the Roulette to a close in December 2019. Our finale was an invitation only to perform celebration. Not only was I happy to end the event on a high note, but show’s ending energized me to pursue other creative endeavors such as podcasting, digital illustrating and filmmaking.
Read more: AUSTIN WRITERS ROULETTE