This July 2025, step into the world of Moth-inspired storytelling under the guidance of two celebrated storytellers, Adam Wade and Carla Katz. With Paris as your muse, you’ll explore your own voice and narrative power in an intimate, creatively charged setting that nurtures authenticity, depth, and connection.
About Your Mentors: Adam Wade, a 20-time Moth StorySLAM champion profiled in The New Yorker, is revered for weaving personal, humorous, and deeply human tales. Carla Katz, a fellow Moth StorySLAM champion and master of narrative structure, is known for drawing out rich characters and bringing stories to life onstage. Together, they will help you shape the raw material of your experiences into compelling narratives that captivate any audience.
What You’ll Experience: Through hands-on exercises, engaging discussions, and focused feedback, you’ll learn to find the universal truths hidden in your personal experiences, infuse stories with authenticity, humor, and emotional resonance, refine pacing, tone, and structure for maximum impact, and build confidence in your voice and performance style.
A Setting That Inspires: Paris, with its timeless boulevards, enchanting cafés, and thriving literary heritage, is the ideal backdrop for creative exploration. As you stroll along the Seine and soak in the city’s rich cultural tapestry, you’ll find your imagination ignited and your storytelling instincts awakened.
Who Should Apply: Whether you’re a seasoned writer eager to sharpen your craft or a newcomer ready to uncover your storytelling spark, this workshop offers a warm, supportive community of like-minded creatives. Come prepared to share, listen, discover new strengths, and leave with the tools—and the confidence—to tell stories that truly resonate. Apply now for a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of storytelling. Join us in Paris and transform the way you tell your story—forever.
Though our admissions process is competitive and the quality of writing high, all interested writers are encouraged to apply.
July 2025 Storytelling Faculty
Storytelling Instructor Adam Wade’s unique audio memoir You Ought to Know Adam Wade was released in January 2020 and was produced by Audible. It was the #1 bestselling new release in the Performing Arts category on both Audible and Amazon for four straight weeks.
His debut storytelling/comedy album Adam Wade: The Human Comedy (2015) was enthusiastically lauded in Sarah Larson's profile of Adam in The New Yorker. In 2018, he released his 2nd album Adam Wade Live at The Magnet Theater, which quickly shot up to #2 on the iTunes and Billboard Comedy Charts.
An inimitable fixture in both the New York City storytelling and comedy scenes, Adam is the winner of 20 SLAMS at The Moth. He has toured across North America with The Moth Main Stage and his stories have appeared on The Moth Radio Hour, The Moth Podcast, and he has performed on the hit PBS television show Stories from the Stage twice.
A seasoned teacher of his craft since 2010, Adam has helped over 3,500 students with their own stories in his variety of 6-week Storytelling Classes at NYC's Magnet Theater. He also conducts workshops for businesses, universities, and other organizations including Apple Inc., UNICEF, Pinterest, The Humane Society of the United States, American Lung Association, Pen America, Chase Bank, Etsy, and The New York Times.
Storytelling Instructor Carla Katz is an award-winning storyteller, playwright, and actor based in Hoboken, NJ. Her work has been featured on the PBS television show Stories from the Stage, The Moth Radio Hour, and The Story Collider podcast.
She has graced legendary stages including the Comedy Cellar, Fat Black Pussycat, St. Mark's Comedy Club, Upright Citizens Brigade, Caveat, The Tank, Kraine Theater, Magnet Theatre, Peoples Improv Theatre, Village Dimson Theater, Teatro Latea, and The Barrow Group Theater.
Carla's solo shows, Body Parts and Angelina, had sold-out runs at the NYC SOLOCOM Comedy Festival. Her play Raccoons won at the 2024 Players Theatre Short Play Festival, and her play The Swan ran at the 2022 New York Theater Festival Summerfest.
Carla has taught storytelling workshops in the U.S., South Africa, and China. She is a labor lawyer and full-time professor of labor studies and law at Rutgers University. She trains as an actor and playwright with The Barrow Group and is a proud Dramatists Guild member.
Lodging at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche
Settle in for 6 days and 5 nights of comfort and creativity at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche, a 4-star gem in the heart of Paris. Just a short stroll from the lush Jardin du Luxembourg, this charming hotel places you within arm's reach of the city’s most inspiring streets and landmarks. From classic Parisian cafés to the timeless elegance of the Latin Quarter, every corner invites discovery. After a full day of workshopping and seeing Paris, you’ll unwind in your beautifully furnished room, where comfort and elegance blend seamlessly.
Class Size
Schedule
Tuesday
3:00PM: Hotel check-in begins.
5:00PM: Sunset meet & greet picnic in Luxembourg Gardens.
Wednesday - Saturday
Mornings: Workshops.
Afternoons/Evenings: Lunch Break & free time, followed by Group Meetings with Adam and Carla. Optional evening activity and dinner, led by Mike Franz.
Sunday
12:00PM: Final check-out at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche.
Optional Evening Activities
Wednesday: Latin Quarter Walking Tour & Dinner
Thursday: Night Bike Tour & Dinner in Tuileries Garden
Friday: Live Storytelling at La Pomme D'Eve
Saturday: Live Storytelling at La Pomme D'Eve
**Details subject to change. Final version will be sent out by May 15th, 2025.
Example July 2025 Schedule Detail
Included Optional Evening Activities
Tuition
Tuition is $3,495.00 and includes the following:
- Lodging in your own room at Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche for 6 days, 5 nights
- A welcome drink and hors d’oeuvres picnic with faculty and staff
- 4-day storytelling workshops in small groups of no more than 10, led by Adam Wade & Carla Katz.
- A walking tour of the Latin Quarter led by Mike Franz (Wednesday) and an evening bicycle tour of the city led by Mike Franz (Thursday).
- The opportunity to tell your story live along with your fellow storytellers at La Pomme D’Eve (Friday & Saturday night).
- Please Note: meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are not included in the price of tuition.
2-Day Versailles & Monet's Garden Add-On, July 6th - 8th, 2025
On Sunday, we'll take a train to Versailles. Our first stop is a vibrant open-air farmers market, where we'll pick fresh ingredients for a picnic. Afterward, we'll explore the expansive gardens of Versailles, including the iconic fountains. A picnic lunch is planned by the Grand Canal, followed by a visit to the chateau. There, we'll learn about the history of Versailles and its notable figures like Marie Antoinette. Once we return to Paris, you can choose to dine out or relax at the hotel.
Monday takes us by train to Giverny, home to Monet's Gardens. We'll have lunch at a local cafe and visit notable spots, including Monet's grave and the Église Sainte-Radegonde de Giverny. Next, we'll tour Monet's former residence, where he painted for 43 years. This includes a chance to view the famed water lily pond that inspired over 250 of his paintings.
Testimonials For Our Paris Retreats
"The workshop exceeded my expectations. The communication was excellent leading up to it, and Writing Workshops was on top of every detail. The nonfiction workshops was incredibly instructive and helpful, and I feel I learned a lot. The hotel was in a wonderful section of Paris, and the evening activities brought us closer as a group. The whole experience was life-changing (without sounding overly dramatic) and gratifying." -Ethan J.
"I am a published novelist, critic and journalist and taking a nonfiction workshop was really out of my comfort zone. I knew I'd learn something and become a better writer because of it, but I honestly didn't think I'd do anything with creative nonfiction beyond this week. Thanks to Chloe and my wonderful, encouraging cohort, I have changed my mind and am going to pursue creative nonfiction alongside my other writing endeavors. And of course, Paris is a positively dreamy place to write, walk, eat, drink and get inspired!" -Lauren W.
"Hands down the best workshop feedback I’ve ever received. I felt so lucky to be a part of this workshop and really enjoy the friendships I forged." - Ben H.
"Writing Workshops in Paris was so amazing! Getting to spend all week working on essays and then by evening exploring the city on foot or bicycle?! Iconic! Loved getting to meet fellow writers, work with established literary stars, and the reading on the Seine was the perfect farewell! Highly recommend to anyone who is looking to write and explore Paris!" -Emily V.
"Writing Workshops Paris absolutely made my summer! Both the staff and the participants were lovely, and all of the workshops, seminars, and optional activities were well-planned and well-executed.It was the perfect Parisian vacation, but with a slew of great suggestions on how to improve my writing for publication, and the added take away of what I feel will be lifelong friends and professional connections. I cannot overstate how much fun I had, and I'm returning home inspired and eager to apply all of the feedback I received to my work". - Becky R.
"Writing Workshops Paris was the ultimate vehicle for me to realize my dream of finally seeing Paris, while re-igniting my passion for writing and connecting me with such a wonderful new writing community!" -Dhana M.
"For me, as a yet-unpublished writer, it was a great introduction to the world of workshopping. I felt comfortable sharing my stories with this helpful, diverse and dedicated group. And even though I'm daunted by the amount of work I have ahead of me, I'm inspired to start combining my stories into a memoir--something I hadn't considered before." -Sue P.
"Immersion into the artistic Parisian culture with a small community of like-minded aspiring writers was nothing short of inspirational. How wonderful it was to escape the ordinary, explore the extraordinary, and revel in the craft of writing --for the sheer joy of it--in the heart of beautiful Paris." -Estee C.
"This workshop exceeded my expectations. The classroom critiques and instructor one-on-ones were extremely helpful, the people were wonderful, and the atmosphere was inviting. It was an experience I'm so glad I didn't miss." - Carissa C.
"WWP was the first workshop I attended. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on my book-in-progress from both Diana and my new writing community! Merci, merci." -Christina K.
"Writing Workshops Paris was my first professional workshop,and it won't be my last! Aside from the magic of being in Paris, which cannot be understated, the amazing people I met were the best part of the week. I left with unexpected friendships that I will have for life,and a fresh motivation to finish my novel. My approach to my writing has been invigorated and my motivation renewed, and I feel connected to this amazing community of writers in a way I never expected. What an amazing week of inspiration and history, great writing and incredible people. Thank you so much for a life-changing week!" -Kerrin S.
"Chloe, I want to thank you again for such a wonderful workshop. I really appreciated the time and skillset you brought as a facilitator and am very grateful for your feedback on my work, as well as recommended resources.." -Brenna K.
"The Paris workshop was inspirational. The setting was liberating as a writer, and leadership was always in good humor, organized and helpful. The feedback has given me a good direction for my work." -Janice H.
"An unforgettable time at the Paris Writing Workshop. Wonderful facilitators, knowledgable instructors. The information was so helpful to my writing. Plus, there was the unexpected joy of bonding with fellow writers. Blake and Mike did an outstanding job. My only complaint was it was too short!" -Leslie R.
Program Staff
As Co-Founder & Executive Director of Side Door Travel, Blake Kimzey embodies Paris's creative spirit, having lived in the 15th, 18th, and 14th arrondissements. His early days as a bicycle tour guide in Paris deeply influenced his creative path, leading him to found WritingWorkshops.com and earn an MFA from UC Irvine. A celebrated author, Blake's fiction has graced the pages and airwaves of NPR, Tin House, McSweeney’s, VICE, and many more, with his collection Families Among Us published by Black Lawrence Press. Blake is involved in bringing the heroics of Polish underground figure Jan Karski to the silver screen, with a dramatic WWII movie set for production in 2025. His deep connection to storytelling and the Parisian landscape enriches the narrative of every Side Door Travel experience.
As Co-Founder & Operations Director of Side Door Travel, Mike Franz brings a wealth of experience to the retreat. Having served as the General Manager and Tour Guide at Fat Tire Bike Tours in Paris for seven years, Mike's tours have been highlighted on Rick Steves-Paris, The Independent-UK, and the television show 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. While in Paris, Mike lived in the 2nd, 6th and 15th arrondissements. After his tenure in Paris, Mike taught government, economics, and public speaking for ten years at Headwaters High School in Austin, Texas, where he was honored with a teacher-of-the-year award after just his first year. His profound understanding of Parisian culture and history and his educational background ensure a rich and insightful travel experience.
Application & General FAQ
What is the application deadline?
Applications for our July 2025 Paris Workshops will close February 15th, 2025. Due to volume, early applications are encouraged.
What will my application include?
- Brief bio informing us of any previous experience you have storytelling, writing, or speaking in public. No experience is necessary, we just want to learn more about you and your experience (500 words max).
- Purpose statement explaining why you would like to participate in our Paris storytelling workshop (500 words max).
- Writing sample excerpt. This does not have to be published work, though that is acceptable, nor does it have to be a piece you plan to workshop. Complete works under the word count are not required; excerpts are acceptable. (writing sample should be no more than 5000 words max.)
- Early applications are encouraged.
When will I know if I've been accepted to the workshop?
Our goal is to provide an intimate, rigorous workshop environment so that participants can come to Paris and find meaningful connections and excellent feedback on their work. Due to the volume of applications and competitive acceptance, applicants are encouraged to apply early. Applicants will be notified after the application window closes.
How much does it cost?
Tuition is $3,495.00. If your application is accepted, full tuition is due within 14 days. Upon acceptance, you will have the option to pay your tuition in full or opt for a payment plan by selecting Affirm at checkout.
What is your refund policy for the workshop in Paris?
Given the intimate nature of our destination workshops and our own, non-refundable deposit schedule as organizers, our refund policy is as follows:
90+ days before your trip, tuition payment minus a $900 deposit is fully refundable.
60+ days before your trip: 50% of your tuition is refundable.
30+ days before your trip: 25% of your tuition is refundable.
Less than 30 days before your trip: no refunds can be offered.
What does tuition include?
- Lodging in your own room at Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche for 6 days, 5 nights
- A welcome drink and hors d’oeuvres picnic with faculty and staff
- 4-day storytelling workshops in small groups of no more than 10, led by Adam Wade & Carla Katz.
- A walking tour of the Latin Quarter led by Mike Franz (Wednesday) and an evening bicycle tour of the city led by Mike Franz (Thursday).
- The opportunity to tell your story live along with your fellow storytellers at La Pomme D’Eve (Friday & Saturday night).
- Please Note: meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are not included in the price of tuition.
Are Payment Plans Available?
Yes. Accepted writers will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) at checkout.
Are Scholarships Available?
Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to offer scholarships for this workshop. However, we do have payment plans available.
Where is the hotel and workshop venue?
Immerse yourself in both comfort and inspiration for 6 days, 5 nights at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche.The 4-star hotel sits in the heart of literary Paris, near booksellers and publishing houses, and is a short walk from the Jardin du Luxembourg. Free Wi-Fi included.
What will you do with my email?
We respect your privacy. We won't sell or rent your email to other organizations.
I have a question not answered here.
Please contact us and we’ll reply promptly.
Optional Two-Day Add-On FAQ
Can I bring someone else along on the add-on trip?
Yes, the add-on is open to friends/partners of anyone attending the Writing Workshop.
If I bring a second person along on the add-on trip and we share a room, can we get a discount?
Yes, please let us know if you are interested in doing this and we can provide price and room details.
Can I bring my entire family along on the add-on trip?
Yes. Please let us know if you are interested in doing this and we can provide price and room details.
How much does the Optional 2-Day Versailles and Monet's Gardens Trip Extension Cost for the dates of July 20-22, 2025?
The cost of the 2-day add-on is an additional $1,495,which includes lodging for two nights at Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche, aswell as transportation and entry to Versailles and Monet's Garden at Giverny.Can I attend the add-on even if I don't attend the Writing Workshop?
No, the add-on is only open to attendees of the Writing Workshop and their guests.
What will you do with my email?
We respect yourprivacy. We will only use your email to send you information aboutWriting Workshops. We won't sell or rent your email toother organizations.
I have a question not answered here.
Please contact us and we’ll reply promptly. You can also Chat with us (lower left of your screen).