MoCo Underground Writers Showcase
More than a reading, the MoCo Underground Writers Showcases are events where stories come alive and voices find their place, offering an open stage for everyone who loves the written word. From first-time writers to seasoned authors with hundreds of publications, everyone is welcome to share their voice or enjoy the readings of local authors.
What Is the MoCo Underground Writers Showcase?
The MoCo Underground Writers Showcase is a free, public event held bi-monthly at Sandy Spring Museum. Each showcase features six to eight writers who share their original short stories, poetry, and essays aloud before a live audience. Every reader has between five and eight minutes to present their work, creating an evening filled with diverse voices and genuine connection.
Meet the Hosts
Pierre-Alain Auroux (Host) is a writer originally from Paris, France. His work has appeared in scientific journals. He curates and facilitates MoCo Underground, a community reading series for emerging and established writers. He lives in Hyattsville, MD, where he is a subject matter expert for high-risk/high-pay-off cutting-edge research programs. He is not sure whether his reading informs his scientific ideas or his ideas spark his writing: so much fun either way!
Laura Sturza (Assistant Host) has work appearing in publications including The New York TImes, The Washington Post, Boston Globe, The LA Times, AARP, Lunch Ticket, Oldster, Washington Writers' Publishing House, and three anthologies. Laura recently completed the memoir, Better Late: The Making of a Midlife First-Time Wife. She teaches memoir writing and has received grants from the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County. Laura earned her MA in Writing, Theatre, and Communication from George Mason University.
How It Works
Each MoCo Underground event features six to eight readers, each sharing their work for five to eight minutes. Readers at all levels of experience who are interested in sharing their work should send an email to the event organizers containing a 2,000-word (max) writing sample and a short bio. View upcoming showcase dates.
Footage of recent showcases is available through Montgomery Municipal Cable (MMCTV), which helps highlight local arts and community stories across Montgomery County.
Why It Matters
MoCo Underground is more than a reading program. It is a community where local writers come together to listen, connect, and grow. A single poem can bridge generations, and a personal story can remind us of our shared humanity.
As former organizer Julia Tagliere says, "This stage is a place where everyone can shine their light."
Membership Matters
Becoming a Museum member helps sustain programs like the MoCo Underground Writers Showcase and ensures that local art, history, and storytelling remain accessible to all. Membership directly supports community events, creative workshops, and the preservation of stories that define Montgomery County.
Learn more about membership benefits or how to get involved.
Join the Story
The MoCo Underground Writers Showcase welcomes writers, listeners, and anyone who believes in the power of stories. By joining us, you become part of a creative circle that keeps the arts vibrant and makes local creativity available for generations to come.
Learn more about upcoming showcases.
For questions, email Sandy Spring Museum or call 301-774-0022.
