CREATIVE RESOURCES | Daniel Hallissey

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JOHN THAW INITIATIVE SEASON AT THE ACTORS CENTRE

Fri 29th March - Sat 30th March, 8.00pm

I'll Fix It Later

By Daniel Hallissey

When best friends Charlie and Graham capture an intruder in their home they’re left with a simple decision, let him go, or cheese-grate his face off. ‘We Caught A Burglar’ is a three-hander dark comedy that explores the worlds we create to feel safe and how we deal with being forced to leave them.

Daniel Hallissey
Writer & Creative

Creative Resources

4 Things Pixar Always Does to Create Memorable Characters

We all have a favourite Pixar character. Pixar's characters, from Woody to Sadness to Mike Wazowski have a unique way of sticking with you, whether it's due to their hilarious banter or heartbreaking humanity. But what is it that Pixar does to make them so memorable?

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10 Tips to Writing from Multiple POVs

Aimie K. Runyan’s post on using multiple points of view.

A Writer’s Guide to Fair Use and Permissions + Sample Permissions Letter

Whenever you decide to directly quote, excerpt or reproduce someone else’s work in your own—whether that’s a book, blog, magazine article, or something else—you have to consider, for each use, whether or not it’s necessary to seek explicit, legal permission from the work’s creator or owner.

Bloomsbury Publishing: How to get your play published

Dom O’Hanlon talking through how to get your play, play companion, and more published. How the process works for this unique area of publishing and how your ideas can make it into print.

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Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading

A non-profit body promoting excellence in English language editing. We set and demonstrate editorial standards, and we are a community, training hub and support network for editorial professionals – the people who work to make text accurate, clear and fit for purpose.

Daily Script

A collection of movie scripts and screenplays to serve as a resource for writers and actors and those who simply enjoy reading movie scripts. The movie scripts are presented in proper script format (for the most part) and where possible, multiple drafts are presented.

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Different types of jobs in the Theatre Industry

There are many jobs available within the theatre industry. Maybe you’d be right for one of them? The Michael Grandage Company give a detailed description of the different types of jobs available in the theatre industry.

Elements of Storytelling

In storytelling, everything builds up to the climax. Every plot point, every reversal, every conflict exists for this one moment in the film where the intense pressure and tension finally releases and the entire story takes a turn toward a final resolution. When deciding how to build your story up to this crucial point, you have to keep a couple of things in mind.

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How Do You Define the Premise of a Movie or TV Show?

Learning how to define the premise of a movie or TV show is a critical skill when you write, pitch or even just talk about projects. But it's not as easy as you'd think.

How to Create Captivating Character Arcs

Characters are the heart and soul of every story. But getting them to arc takes practice and skill.

How to Get a Book Published

Here’s the Penguin guide to navigating the publishing process as an aspiring author.

How to Write Character Development

There are lots of terms thrown around when you try to write a character in a screenplay. But what sets character development apart from the pack and why is it crucial to your story?

Increasing the Impact of Surprise

It is only because we’ve already been introduced to these characters, and their desires and conflicts, that the surprise element gets us to feel something.

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John Grisham’s Do’s and Don’ts for Writing Popular Fiction

Since advice is usually ignored and rules are routinely broken, I refer to these little pearls as merely “suggestions.”

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Literature Works Writers Resources

Writers Resources from Literature Works

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Mastering the Comedy Genre

Everyone needs a good laugh, and the comedy genre is one of the best ways to get there. What makes a great comedy?

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Pixar's Story Development Process

Mary Coleman, a Pixar senior development executive, shares details about how it all comes together -- revealing some surprising and enlightening things.

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Poetry Resources

As long as you have paper and a pen (or a computer with a word processor) and your mind, you can write poetry. Recommended by Carly.

Production Base

Production Base wants to ensure freelancers are paid the correct industry rates of pay. The information is based on minimum rates of pay for a 5-day week. These rates are based on a nationwide average and have been collated over a number of years of working with the production community.

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Revealing Your Hero's Wound

At the beginning of your screenplay, your hero should be in a state of inertia — settling for a life that may be emotionally safe and tolerable, but that lacks passion, risk and fulfillment. Her life might be filled with activity and even give the illusion that she’s striving for something, but all this effort is ultimately going nowhere. In other words, your hero should be stuck.

Science in Sci-Fi

Articles by scientists, engineers, medical professionals, and other experts sharing their insights on a variety of topics in the sci-fi genre.

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Script Coverage Services

A list of companies that give feedback on your script.

Setting as a Vehicle for Conflict

Becca Puglisi’s examines how to ratchet up conflict and tension using setting.

Simply Scripts

A database of hundreds of downloadable scripts, movie scripts, screenplays, and transcripts of current, classic and maybe a few soon-to-be-released movies, television, anime, unproduced and radio shows.

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Story Structure

James Cameron’s screenplay Avatar is an outstanding example of using many structural tools and devices successfully in one script.

Theatre Seat Store

Writing for Theatre and Film. A beginner's introduction on what to consider when writing for theatre and film. Recommended by Anna.

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The Adventure Genre

The adventure genre is built around our desire to search for "more" in our lives. More meaning, more excitement, and sometimes more treasure. It plays into the mysticism of the unknown and works as pure escapism for those watching.

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The Black List

The Black List is the best place to get feedback on your scripts and showcase them for industry members.

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The Myth of the 3 Act Structure

A Blog post discussing the Positives and Negatives of a 3 Act Structure.

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The Society of Authors

The SoA is the UK trade union for all types of writers, illustrators and literary translators, at all stages of their careers. We have been advising individuals and speaking out for the profession for more than a century.

TriForce Creative Network

TriForce Creative Network was built on a strong ethos of inclusion and access, opening doors to the industry to people from all walks of life and providing a trusted and viable avenue for the industry to discover diverse talent. Providing opportunities for actors, writers, directors, producers, and crew.

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UK Literary Agents

A complete list of the top UK literary agents.

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US Literary Agents

A complete list of the top US literary agents.

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Victoria Wood's rules of comedy

Reveals some of her comedy construction methods, tips, tricks and techniques.

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What went wrong with The Simpsons

Good execution means keeping a character’s personality traits consistent. Even a relatively subtle change to the rules and boundaries set for comedy characters can make a big difference.

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World Anvil

World Anvil is a set of worldbuilding tools that helps you create, organize and store your world setting. With wiki-like articles, interactive maps, historical timelines, an RPG Campaign Manager and a full novel-writing software, we have all the tools you’ll need to run your RPG Campaign or write your novel!

5 Tips for Playing Better Evil Characters

What Is Your Motivation?
Does Your Character Know They're Evil?
How Do You Remain at Large?
Can You Work as Part of a Team?
How Far Will You Go?

22 Tips on Storytelling from Pixar

22 tips for storytelling.

Art of the Cut

A master class in editing from a guy who loves talking about his craft and sharing with his colleagues in the industry.

Bruntwood Writing Resources

Bruntwood share provocations, tips, tutorials and advice all with the aim of helping you shape and develop your writing practice. Each resource approaches things from their writers own perspective – so take from each one what you like!

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Common Resources

Common Theatre has compiled some brilliant resources and initiatives run by other arts organisations, which are very useful to sign up to when building a career in theatre.

David Lane

Professional Development & Support for Writers

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Directory of Literature Organisations

The National Centre for Writing's directory of literature organisations.

Film Genre Popularity of the Past 100 Years

An interactive look into the history of film genre popularity over the last 100+ years.

How the Best Opening Scenes of All Time Can Help Your Script

I think we can all agree that when the rewriting process happens, we spend the most time changing the opening 10 pages of our feature film. We all know those are the pages where we can hook the reader, where we can promise them a fun romp and introduce them to characters they will remember for a lifetime.

How to Describe Your Character's Emotions

Describing your character's emotions can be hard to do on the page, but we've unearthed a handy infographic to help you use more descriptive words and dive deeper into your character's emotional state.

How to Write a Flat Character Arc

Next to the positive change arc, the flat character arc is the most popular storyline. Also called the “testing arc,” the flat arc is about a character who does not change. He already has the Truth figured out in the beginning of the story, and he uses that Truth to help him overcome various external tests.

How to Write a Movie Transcript

What real writers follow are their characters. And what great writers follow are their characters as they evolve around a central dramatic argument that is actually meaningful to other human beings.

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Inner Conflict

All stories are built on a foundation of three basic components: character, desire, and conflict. A hero or protagonist desperately wants something and must overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles to achieve it.

Khan Academy

Pixar in a box. The art of Storytelling

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LIVR

LIVR is the world’s first virtual reality content platform dedicated to theatre. It offers a fully immersive 360° VR experience that transports you into the audience at some of the best live performances; on-demand and from the comfort of home.

Money-Saving Guide for Authors and Writers

Becoming an author or writer is a dream that many people have, though it can be hard to know where to start. Coupon Follow have put together some resources for writers who are looking to improve their craft and save money on career expenses. Recommended by Marisa.

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Plot Generator

Wanting to find a story idea? The Plot Generator can create some ideas for you, all at the touch of a button.

Poetry Writing Tips

Poetry is perhaps the most misunderstood type of writing. It’s not something that only intellectuals enjoy, and it’s not something that only geniuses can create. Poetry is everywhere, even in the music people play in the car. Through reading and practice, it’s possible to pick up the basics of poetry writing and start honing your craft.

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Resource for the Student Filmmaker

As a student filmmaker, you want to express your abilities and explore your talents without making yourself broke. Sticking to a low budget is challenging. But you can do it.

Rick and Morty writer’s room

How does the process of writing a Rick and Morty episode look like?

ScreenSkills

ScreenSkills is the industry-led skills body for the screen industries. Work across the UK to ensure that film, television (including children's and high-end drama), VFX (visual effects), animation, and games have the skills and talent needed. They provide insight, career development, and other opportunities to help grow and sustain the skilled and inclusive workforce which is the foundation stone of the UK's global screen success.

Screenplay Coverage Services

A list of companies that give feedback on your screenplay.

Seven movies Hollywood keeps remaking

People can be very sniffy about movie remakes. Some see them as lazy cash-ins, because it’s easier to redo something successful than have an original idea. Their frequent criticism, though, can be unfair. There are many great remakes giving a new spin on the original idea.

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Stage Launch

An online database of indie/unpublished playwrights. Amdram societies can search for a play that fits their needs - e.g. by genre or length - and get in touch with the playwright direct (charging a flat annual fee, not a % of royalties).

Story Structure 104

Storytelling comes naturally to humans, but since we live in an unnatural world, we sometimes need a little help doing what we'd naturally do.

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The 5 Requirements For a Hero's Outer Motivation

Fiction is built on the emotional power of DESIRE, CONFLICT and define a VISIBLE goal that the protagonist is desperate to achieve. The pursuit of this goal defines your story concept, determines plot structure, and is the necessary through-line from which your hero’s INNER journey and story’s theme will emerge.

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The Art of Storytelling

What makes a story great? What makes someone a good storyteller? Storytelling is something we all do naturally, starting at a young age, but there’s a difference between good storytelling and great storytelling.

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The Key to story structure in two words: Therefore & But

There are tons of storytelling-related books and websites in the cosmos and there is no shortage of people giving story advice and tips. Much of the advice is helpful, but the enormous volume of information related to writing or telling better stories can be overwhelming.

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The Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith

Jeff Goldsmith interviews screenwriters and filmmakers alike about their creative process!

The Theatrical Guild

We’re the UK charity for backstage and front of house workers, with over 125 years’ experience helping people. Whether you need a shoulder to lean on or are interested in further training, we can provide practical help at any stage of your career – from welfare and debt advice to financial support or counseling.

Tutti

Hire local spaces for any creative use. Anything from studios to homes, churches to nightclubs, military venues to boats. We look for spaces that are fit for purpose, affordable, beautiful, or community driven. No matter your creative requirements, our goal is to make sure you can always find somewhere that works for you on Tutti.

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UK Literary Agents Part 2

Another complete list of the top UK literary agents.

US Copyright Office

The U.S. Copyright Office promotes creativity and free expression by administering the nation’s copyright laws and by providing impartial, expert advice on copyright law and policy for the benefit of all.

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What does a 'HOOK' look like?

The idea of a “hook” has changed over the years. The difference between a concept and a hook is that a concept is your whole idea. Whereas a hook is a component of the concept. It’s the part that gets potential readers/viewers excited.

Without Walls

Without Walls is a consortium of festivals and organisations dedicated to raising the profile of the UK outdoor arts sector, promoting artistic excellence and supporting innovative new work for the benefit of artists and audiences.

Writers Digest

A large resource of useful and free downloads for writers

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10 Great Writing Tips You Can Learn From Phoebe Waller-Bridge

Phoebe Waller-Bridge is a force of nature. She can write, act, and produce better than most people on this planet. So what lessons can we learn from her?

A Glossary Of Screenwriting Terms & Filmmaking Definitions

A comprehensive glossary is provided as a reference for novices learning the craft of screenwriting or professionals with a limited understanding of film-financing and production terminology.

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Billy Wilder’s Top 10 Writing Tips

Billy Wilder’s considered one of the best screenwriters and filmmakers in film history.

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Casting Directors’ Guild

A professional organisation of Casting Directors in the film, television, theatre and commercials communities in the UK and Ireland who have joined together to further their common interests in establishing a recognised standard of professionalism in the industry.

Computer Tools and Editing Software for Writers

A list with details on Computer Tools and Editing Software for Writers. Recommended by Willow and Annie.

Delivering a Powerful Theme

The most powerful and persuasive stories don’t simply entertain or enlighten – they challenge their readers and audiences to transform – to find the courage to change their thoughts and behaviors in order to achieve a more fulfilling, loving and self-defined existence.

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Doollee

Doollee is an online database of playwrights, theatre plays, agents, publishers, theatres, and more.

Genres List

So how do you decide what you're writing? And which genres to mash-up? The secret is in the tropes.

How to create a compelling, character-driven plot

How Plot can help you write your story.

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How to Format your script

Presenting your work appropriately suggests a professional approach and an understanding of the medium and format for which you are writing.

How to Write a Synopsis

One important step in the script writing process is the synopsis.

How to Write Character Arcs

If you’re going to write a story worthy of your amazing character, the first thing you have to do is learn how to write character arcs that resonate with your readers and leave them gasping, cheering, or crying.

Introducing Your Heroes

Arguably the most important portion of your story is the opening. This is where you must seduce your readers and audiences as you draw them into the world you’ve created. And this is where you must introduce us to the hero/heroine/protagonist of your story, creating immediate empathy and identification with this character.

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Kurt Vonnegut’s Greatest Writing Advice

Vonnegut’s many thoughts on writing have been widely shared, taught, studied and adapted because his advice tends to be straightforward, generous, and (most importantly) right.

Make Your Characters Distinct

In the outstanding film HIDDEN FIGURES, screenwriters Allison Schroeder and Theodore Melfi faced the formidable task of immediately introducing their three major characters, and making them unique and memorable. All three are African American women about the same age, and all three are scientists working at NASA.

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OpenHire

OpenHire was started by freelance directors Derek Bond and Josh Roche in September 2020, in the hope of improving transparency and access to freelance creative jobs in theatre.

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Plots and Stories

A plot is not a story, nor does every story have a strong plot. Good writers know the importance of both plot and story. Plots are events, stories reveal how characters react to those events.

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Preparing your submission

You want to know what a great query letter to literary agents should look like? We’re going to show you a perfect sample letter in a moment.

Resource Guide to Writing Basics

No matter why we write, it's important to be able to write clearly and understandably, and just about anyone can improve this skill with a bit of practice. Recomended by Laura and the Girl Scout Troop

Scenesaver

Scenesaver is a hub showing 450+ off west end, off-broadway and fringe theatre performances. We do not charge to feature performances. Creatives can upload their footage, free of charge, and viewers pay a "ticket price" donation and this money goes to the creatives.

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Script Mag

If you’re looking for free screenwriting tips and advice to help kick-start your writing career, then you’ll love our vast selection of free downloads. From learning how to write a script the right way to how to beat writer’s block, you’ll find something that will help you increase your chances of success!

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Script Angel

Script Angel was formed to offer professional, tailored script development support to emerging and developing writers.

Shooting People

Shooting People connects you with a UK community making bold and creative work. From all walks of life, right across the industry. Access thousands of UK creatives making films and find work. Make your own projects happen. Get authentic advice and support from others doing it themselves.

Story Planner

Story Planner’s easy-to-follow steps help writers plan novels, screenplays and more. Writing is easier when you have a plan. We take you through each stage of the planning process to help you create a better story.

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Tension and Suspense

We discuss key components of tension experiences and propose a domain-independent model of tension and suspense. We also discuss possible neural mechanisms underlying tension and suspense. The model provides a theoretical framework that can inform future empirical research on tension phenomena.

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The Action Genre

Great action movies and television are like riding roller coasters. They pump up the adrenaline and take us places we can only imagine. They're fun, explosive, and can be kind of hard to write. Action movies need to keep the pages turning but also set up brilliant set pieces that stick out amongst an already crowded genre.

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The Audience Agency

The Audience Agency is a mission-led charity: Its purpose is to enable cultural organisations to use their national data to increase their relevance, reach and resilience.

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The Literary Consultancy

The Literary Consultancy is the UK's first and leading editorial and manuscript assessment service working nationally and internationally.

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The Space

The Space helps artists and organisations make great art and reach new audiences digitally.

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Theatre Links

Thousands of Categorised Links to the Best Theatre Resources

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UK Theatre

Rates of Pay & Agreements. UK Theatre’s negotiation with recognised unions and its provision of contracts and employment relations advice are at the core of our offer to members.

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Unbound

Unbound is the world’s only book publisher to use crowdfunding to raise funds for the publishing process. We’ve published over 250 titles and are looking for more authors to work with.

Varsity Tutors

Varsity Tutors is the largest live learning platform in the United States and has numerous free resources, including examining classic literature, how to practice writing stories, approaching Shakespeare, examining fairytales, reading and writing clubs you can join, creative writing sessions, discussing popular movies, and much, much more.

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What makes a film noir?

The BFI give a break down of what makes a story a film noir.

Why Nemo's Mom is the Most Important Character in the Movie

Coral is in "Finding Nemo" for all of three minutes, if that, but her story and interaction with Marlin could be the most important one in the film.

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Writers Helping Writers

A free resources site for writers offering different tools to help them with their story. Including useful books, links to writing resources, writing coaches, tips, descriptive thesaurus lists, events and workshops.

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© 2021 by Daniel Hallissey

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