If you’re in a rush, but feel like seeing something good, then we have just what you need. Last month we asked anyone from the gay, lesbian, bi and transexual community to get in touch with their 140 character stories (the length of a tweet) and many of these have been used as the inspiration for short films.

Come and see the results this week on the giant Fusion screen at the Forum (Norwich and Norfolk Millennium Library) running until Jan 22nd, 10am-5pm.

And while you’re there you can tweet your response to the films and stories that you see all around you – and don’t worry, no experience necessary! There’ll be writing experts on hand, so all you have to do is turn up. You could also get some advice if you’re looking for ideas or information about writing.

For a taster of some of the films go to www.12seconds.tv/channel/OUT140. All the stories were 140 characters or less – the length of a Tweet on Twitter.

The 140 character stories are also very absorbing – go to www.twitter.com/OUT140 to read some funny, sad and poetic work.

All stories and films are part of the 140 Characters project that Writers’ Centre Norwich has been working on with Norwich Pride and various other partners. Poet and artist Vince Laws explained why he got involved with the project:

“The ability to condense life-changing events into a few well-chosen words is at the heart of poetry. Lines like I wore dresses for Jesus or I tripped over the sequinned stilettos paint powerful pictures instantly.”

Community filmmaker and chair of Norwich Pride Michelle Savage (Shelly Telly) devised 140 Characters and says:

“We have been overwhelmed by the honesty, creativity and humour with which people have told their tales. There are sad stories, happy stories, romances and adventures. We’re proud that 140 Characters captures the huge variety of peoples experiences.

If this has inspired you, have a peek at writer Ross Sutherland’s guide to writing very short stories..