At the end of October, I received an email from my contact at Middlesex Lounge, the venue where Literary Firsts had taken place ever since it started back in 2010.
Due to a number of mitigating factors (mainly having to do with the construction that’s taking place in Central Square), Middlesex Lounge is cutting back their hours and no longer hosting non-club events. They were always really kind to me and to the series, so I know it wasn’t a decision they made lightly.
I’ve had a number of friends offer to look at new venues for the series, very kind offers, all. But since I’m neckdeep in work right now (my own writing, plus teaching, plus everything going on at Aforementioned), and because I want a space that combines theatricality and proximity (i.e., I don’t want the readers distanced from the audience, but I do want a place where I can dim the lights and create a mood that’s indicative of a performance), and because I don’t know of another venue like that in the Boston area, I’m putting the series on hiatus.
As soon as I’m able to find a comparable venue for Literary Firsts, I promise to bring it back. Until then, I’m really proud to have had a hand in making Boston’s literary community a little warmer and a little brighter.
Thanks to all the readers and the faithful audience members.
I hope to be back at it soon.
Fondly—
Carissa
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