Beginner's Guide Writing Workshop: Screenwriting

This intensive two-day writing workshop that teaches you the nuts and bolts of screenwriting—and how to avoid newbie mistakes.

Want to write for the big screen but not sure where to start?

Beginner's Guide: Screenwriting is a dynamic two-day workshop that demystifies the nuts and bolts of screenwriting, taking you step by step through what you need to know to start writing.

Facilitator: Kathryn Burnett

Perhaps you're already underway but not sure if you're on the right track or keep losing momentum. No matter what level you're at—if you want to improve your screenwriting skills our Beginner’s Guide to Screenwriting is designed especially for you.

Screenwriting has much in common with other forms of creative writing and storytelling but it has a distinct form and language. This workshop provides an excellent grounding in both and offers genuine insight into how film and television projects are put together.

If you want to pay in installments—get in touch jz@theziggur.at.

Who is this workshop for?
Newer screenwriters or industry professionals who are looking to up-skill.

How does this sound?
- A fun, supportive learning environment. (No pressure to share.)
- Clear, practical information and advice from an industry insider.
- Guidance on making sure your idea is cinematic.
- Learn what differentiates a screenplay from other forms of writing - and what that means for the screenwriter.
- Insights to help you avoid newbie mistakes from the get-go.
- Instruction on how screenplay stories are put together.
- Invaluable story exercises designed to help you develop your kick-ass story.
- E-notes and handouts.

Did I mention that it's fun?

You will learn:

- The basic how and why of writing for film, including plot, story structure, dialogue, big print, character arc and the visual grammar of screenplays.
- How writing a screenplay differs from writing other forms of fiction
- How genre impacts and influences your story
- The importance of starting with a cinematic premise
- How to format a screenplay
- How to create compelling watchable characters
- How to write a logline, synopsis and beat sheet
- How to structure your story before you start writing.
- How to write a scene.
- The differences between writing a feature film, short film and TV.
- What to do next once you've finished your draft.

Facilitator: Kathryn Burnett

Kathryn is an award-winning screenwriter who has worked in the NZ television/film industry for over 20 years. She has significant television and film credits and has developed numerous television series for NZ’s major production companies. Her most recently produced TV projects include—“Fresh Eggs,” “The Sounds” and multi-award-winning “The Cul de Sac.” She is also on the development team for an HBO sci-fi series and has a comedy series in development with Warner Brothers.

What people are saying:

"Kathryn's course is a must for any newbie. It’s a fast, furious and funny two days—I can’t wait to get started on my first feature." - Eryn Wilson, Actor/Writer/Director

"Fantastic array of information. It’s so helpful to get to look "under the bonnet" of a film and see all the moving parts. This will save hours of time in avoiding the pitfalls."- Cindy Mullins, Publishing Agent

"Loved it! Kathryn gets straight to the point and gives clear, practical advice about screenwriting. She demystifies the process." - Rebecca Barry Hill, Journalist/Screenwriter

FAQs:
Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?
Age minimum is 16.(But contact me if you'd like to discuss!)
What is your cancellation/refund policy?
If the event is cancelled by organiser, participants will receive a full and automatic refund. If cancelled by the participant—cancellation must be 30 days prior to the event to receive a full refund. If cancellation is less than 30 days—a 50% fee refund is available at the facilitator's discretion.
What do I need to bring?
Pen and paper—and a laptop if you prefer.
See our website for more information!