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John Herman directing Sean Hurley in "Atoms, Motion, and the Void"
Thank you very much to everyone who came out to see the play “Atoms, Motion, and the Void.” The show starring Sean Hurley as Sherwin Sleeves ended its run with wonderful reviews and a lot of conversation and reflection. It was a very special experience for me to direct such a meaningful show. Thank you again for all your kind thoughts and support. And, yes, I assure you Sherwin Sleeves will return to the stage soon.

From The Portsmouth Herald, Spotlight: ‘Atoms, Motion and the Void’ is stunning

When you find yourself calling storytellers, writers/poets, actors and lovers of literature and theater to urge them to see a new play, it’s a good indicator that something mighty fine is afoot. Add to that the piece is only stronger with every passing day as you recall segments and you know you’ve seen something special. That’s certainly the reaction to “Atoms, Motion and the Void” on stage at the Players’ Ring. This show is mind-boggling, simply boggling. Do not miss it.

From Foster’s Daily Democrat, Showcase: ‘Atoms, Motion and the Void’ offers lush storytelling, perspective on life

“Atoms, Motion and the Void,” might just be writing and storytelling at its finest. Currently staged at Portsmouth’s Player’s Ring through Jan. 6, the gravely voiced, one-man soliloquy wraps you in brilliance and shows you your own light. One only need listen to the first few lines to recognize something amazing or awful is about to become you.

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John Herman and the 451 Degree Filmmaker Challenge, S.N.O.B. Film Festival

The Center for the Book at the NH State Library awarded “The Future” for best capturing the essence of the novel Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. I directed the movie with improv comedians Stranger Than Fiction for the 451 Degree Filmmaker Challenge hosted by the Somewhat North of Boston Film Festival.

UPDATE: Steve Garfield featured “The Future” in his latest episode of Vlog Soup. Steve’s take on the future is a must see!

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In honor of Ray Bradbury’s novel, Fahrenheit 451, and in association with the Somewhat North of Boston Film Festival, I directed a new video last night with the improv comedians of Stranger Than Fiction. It is called “The Future” and I get to wear my favorite costume again! Look closely for two books by excellent New Hampshire authors (James Patrick Kelly and Ernest Hebert). Enjoy!


And here is a response video from the vlogfather Steve Garfield!


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I interviewed James Patrick Kelly, science fiction writer, recent Nebula winner, and NH resident, for The Wire. Here is a snippet of my article entitled, Truth is Stranger Than Science Fiction: New Hampshire author takes the Nebula Award:

New Hampshire writer James Patrick Kelly recently received the Nebula Award for his novella “Burn.” The science fiction writer joins the ranks of previous winners Frank Hebert, Isaac Asimov and Neil Gaiman. Hearing the beat of a different drummer, Kelly released his Walden-inspired science fiction book as a free podcast just as the book hit retail shelves. The action that might have seemed crazy to traditional publishers gave an otherwise small-print book the opportunity to develop a wide readership. According to the author, the whole thing was an experiment that turned out really well. He is now being called a pioneer.

Also here is a video interview of James Patrick Kelly from my video blog that was featured on Boing Boing.

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Image Hosted by ImageShack.usA Houston parent calls for the banning of a book concerning book banning? Check out the story here. Someone could have at least told the guy it was Banned Books Week, a time, according to the American Library Association’s Web site, to celebrate the freedom to choose or express one’s opinion, even if it might be considered unorthodox or unpopular.

My Mass Media and Communications class ironically just finished reading Ray Bradbury’s classic novel. I teach it early in the year, because the book’s messages about freethinking, the critical importance of knowledge and literacy, and the freedom of speech are paramount in today’s world. Do yourself a favor. Click on the image an buy yourself a copy. There is a quote at the start of the novel that I have always found particularly exciting. Spanish Nobel Prize winning poet Juan Ramon Jimenez is quoted as saying, “If they give you ruled paper, then write the other way.” Now wouldn’t that make a great t-shirt?

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