Mario Petrucci – A Recommendation

 

 

Having worked with a number of writers over the years on our residential courses, we found the best when we discovered Mario Petrucci.  Time after time throughout the week, he delivered meticulously planned, wonderfully inventive workshops that challenged students to push their language skills to the limits.  Every part of the writing process was addressed, from stimulating the spark of an idea to polishing the “finished” piece, be it for page or performance.

 

Mario instils in students the need for rigour without deflating their enthusiasm for writing, creating a balance between creative energy and attention to detail that helps young writers to reach new levels in their poetry and prose.  His commitment to ensuring that each student feels valued and included is clear and he displays a sensitivity in his relationship with young people that makes him very approachable.

 

In performing his own work, Mario conveys a sincerity of energy and feeling.  Unafraid of difficult issues and complex ideas, his readings are stimulating and unpatronising and provide an ideal model for aspiring young writers and performers.

 

Mario is a writer of huge warmth, compassion and generosity.  He makes his instructions and expectations clear to students and they respond with writing that they did not feel themselves capable of.

 

 

Steve Walker

Walcot Hall Residency

June 2007