In-person course
in Nottingham Maker & location details

Playwriting and Screenwriting for Beginners - Nottingham Trent University

Description

On this course you’ll learn a range of dramatic writing techniques for playwriting and screenwriting. You’ll learn about different processes that aid story development, studying the conventions of dramatic tension both in the storyline and between the characters. You’ll start the course by developing an idea and considering what works, what doesn‘t work and why. You’ll create a synopsis and, whether your story is set in the present or past, you’ll ensure it connects with the contemporary world to make it relevant, engaging and marketable. As your characters begin to come to life, you’ll be taught to consider where they are taking the storyline. You’ll look at the importance of the synopsis whilst remaining open to change as the plot develops; seeing your story as a living piece of work, and appreciate the role of the director and actors as part of this process. You’ll also consider the story ‘beyond the moment’ and how to make it stay with the audience after the performance. On this course you will: - read short extracts of classic and contemporary plays and screenwriting, considering how these may influence your choices in writing - study how characters drive the storyline and how to effectively create a three-dimensional relationship with the audience, studying the art of originality and avoiding the stereotypical - look at how to create effective conflict between characters, and the importance of pace and the need for voice variation, pattern and tone to create drama - learn the art of natural dialogue, and how less can often be more, letting the audience fill in the gaps. What will I gain? You’ll leave this course will a one act play completed (or near completion) suitable for theatre or screen. You’ll also have ideas of how the your story and ideas can be extended into full-length, and new ideas inspired by the course. You’ll also have ideas for entering competitions and how to submit your work. Level: Beginner Entry requirement: No experience is required. Where you'll learn: You will be studying creative writing in a UNESCO City of Literature, and be based in the School of Arts and Humanities on the City Campus. You will find modern teaching spaces and quiet study environments to develop your ideas and writing. You’ll also have access to our library to use outside of your short course; whilst you can’t reserve or take away books, you are welcome to use them as a resource for research and referencing. Tutor profile: Tina Jay is an award winning playwright, having won both the Kenneth Branagh Award for New Drama Writing for her play ‘Walking’ and the International Student Playscript Competition (judged by Sir Ayckbourn) for ‘Rotten Apples’. Her plays have been performed in London, at venues including Tristan Bates, The Park Theatre, Lost Theatre, Greenwich Theatre, Barons Court, Rich Mix, and The Royal Exchange in Manchester. Her most recent play 'Syndrome' completed a two-week run at Tristan Bates Theatre in February 2020, with the production having been described as a ‘Masterpiece’ and ‘Pitch Perfect’, receiving 5-star reviews and 2 Offie Nominations. Three of her short stories from her audiobook 'Love Light Betrayal' were also performed at Quad Cinema in Derby. Tina has taught creative writing in a variety of disciplines, and has an MA in TV Scriptwriting (with Distinction). She is currently working on a number of new TV, Film and Theatre projects.