Tagged with 826CHI …

Get to Know: Bill Shunn

Hello Essay Fiesta fans! It’s hump day, which means we are less than a week from the next reading. Now, the holidays are a time to get together with old friends, drink some hot cocoa and share some good stories. And guess what? We’re going to be doing that on Dec. 19 at the Book … Continue reading →

Essay Fiesta Anniversary: What You Missed

If you didn’t get a chance to see the Essay Fiesta 2-year anniversary spectacular, here’s what you missed: Alyson Lyon still loves Matt Dillon. Will Matt Dillon love Alyson Lyon? Ian Belknap wants to kill James Franco. More prizes than you could carry home in your arms. BIG THANKS to Southport Grocery and Cafe, Dabble, … Continue reading →

Essay Fiesta Anniversary Raffle Prizes

As you probably know, Essay Fiesta holds a raffle  that benefits 826CHI. Raffle prizes have included everything from a Threadless gift certificate to a student-penned novel (from 826, of course) to a home-knitted scarf (thanks Alyson’s aunt!). Our prizes are indeed awesome and raffle tickets are only a dollar, but the biggest win of them … Continue reading →

Keith’s Essay Fiesta Favorite Things

Earlier this week, we highlighted Essay Fiesta co-producer Alyson Lyon’s favorite things about the series. Now it’s time to rifle through the memory store of co-producer Keith Ecker and pull out some choice moments that strike his fancy. The following, in no real order, are some of Keith’s Essay Fiesta favorite things: 1. Showcasing amazing … Continue reading →

Alyson’s Essay Fiesta Favorite Things

Essay Fiesta is about to turn 2! Indeed, our November anniversary show (Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. at the Book Cellar) is approaching fast. And our very own Alyson Lyon is already in full celebration mode. Here’s some of Alyson’s favorite things about the show: 1. The Readers:  National comedians, published authors, local actors and all … Continue reading →

Get To Know: Paula Carter

Essay Fiesta is upon us! In just a week, Alyson and Keith will be giving you the ol’ razzle dazzle at the Book Cellar. Not only will you be thoroughly and sufficiently entertained, but you will also get the opportunity to help out the wonderful people at 826CHI via our prize-laden raffle. And to kick … Continue reading →

We <3 the Book Cellar

This past Essay Fiesta was off the shelf! The Book Cellar was packed, and our readers made it happen in a big way. We laughed, we cried… it was ten billion times better than Cats. A big thanks to our audience, our readers, 826 Chicago and of course, the Book Cellar. Speaking of the Book Cellar, … Continue reading →

Get To Know: Tricia Parker

Hey Essay Fiesta aficionados! We hope you’ll join us on the 19th at the Book Cellar for some totally true essays by some brand new readers as well as a couple veterans. Today we’re highlighting another newbie. Her name is Tricia Parker. Tricia is a reporter for the RedEye. Prior to landing her gig at … Continue reading →