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I’m a writer.
I hope you noticed.
Ideally, you even think I’m an engaging and entertaining one.
Writing has brought me joy for as long as I can remember. It’s always been how I process the world, find my confidence, and connect with people.
The most obvious collection of that work is this site, which has existed in some form since 2004. But Beyond the Balcony is only part of what I want to create. I’ve always aspired to write far more, including, one day, a traditionally published novel.
So I thought I’d lay out a few of the writing projects I’m planning to tackle in the first part of 2026.
Toronto Star Short Story Contest
An annual tradition for many Ontario-based fiction writers, and one of the most prestigious short story contests around that doesn’t charge a submission fee. The grand prize includes $5,000 and tuition for two Humber writing programs.
My biggest challenge is always getting a story under the 2,500-word limit, but I genuinely enjoy writing short fiction, and I want to keep pushing myself in that space. The deadline is Wednesday, February 25, and I plan to write something new specifically for it. I’ll share updates along the way, and if you’re in Ontario, I’d love for you to join me.
It Productions One-Act Play Script
Another Ontario-based contest, this one centred around the Brantford area. There’s no monetary prize, but having your work performed at a festival is a reward all its own.
I want to do more scriptwriting in 2026, and this feels like the perfect excuse to dive in and stretch creatively in a different direction.
Copywriting for Businesses
This is the “pay the bills” writing. My goal is to work with businesses in the arts and creative sectors, where my voice and enthusiasm feel like the best fit.
If you’re looking for a creative, imaginative writer to help promote your business and genuinely engage your audience, please reach out.
Pop Culture Writing for Publications
I have an article slated to be published in the coming weeks, and I’ll be ramping up pitching to publications and magazines that have been on my radar for a long time. Expect more film, TV, and pop culture writing in 2026.
Movie Reviews
I’m planning weekly new-release movie reviews here on Beyond the Balcony, along with a dedicated MCU and Disney review series over on Substack.
Daily Beyond the Balcony
I’m aiming for daily posts here: some longer, some lighter. Weekly The Movie Breakdown podcasts and Life on the Balcony newsletters will also be linked here, helping keep variety while working toward consistency.
That’s the plan. Alongside all of this, I want to begin serious work on the novel.
It’s ambitious.
It won’t go perfectly.
There will be hiccups.
It will get messy.
Paid work will always come first, but I’m committed to continuing to push myself creatively. I’m grateful to have you along for the ride in 22026.
If my work resonates with you and you’d like to support it, there are a few ways you can help:
- Subscribe to the Life on the Balcony newsletter.
- Throw a few dollars my way via the Support Me badge or my Ko-fi page.
- Consider hiring me as a copywriter for your business
Thank you for reading!
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