Past Events

Midsummer Masterclass

Our event below was excellent fun and hopefully useful to all participants! Some photos from the day:

photo of a big screen on a wall, showing a title page for a presentation. Title is: Introduction to Adaptation - questions and considerations.
Rick, author and workshop leader, standing in front of a big screen on a wall, with his hands folded and a big smile on his face.
Photo from the back of a room, with a group of people seen from the back, sitting at a table and looking at Rick who is leading the workshop. You can also see a screen on a wall and a view out of the window onto a green field.
Workshop leader Rick - standing in front of a big screen on a wall, text is not decipherable but title says it's about one-hour pilot with multiple storylines. Rick is looking engaged and is gesticulating whilst smiling warmly.
MidsummerMasterClassPosterDownload

Adapt your Story for the Screen

Are you a writer with a novel you want to adapt for the screen?

Or a reader who is keen to see a favourite book on the TV?

Spend a summer Saturday day in Cambridge’s beautiful Hughes Hall, learning the tools and techniques required to adapt a novel into a film or TV script.

This one-day masterclass is run by screenwriter and story consultant Rick Harvey (Eon Productions, Raindance, ICE Cambridge University) and bestselling novelist Penny Hancock (Tideline, I Thought I Knew You, The Choice). With more than twenty years, writing and teaching experience between them, Penny and Rick are ideally placed to help you learn how to adapt a book for the screen.

During the day you will

  • · Learn the techniques required for adapting a novel into a screenplay or TV series
  • Understand format, character arcs and visual storytelling
  • Learn how to write convincing dialogue
  • Benefit from the collaborative aspect of screenwriting
  • Produce a one-page pitch document or pitch deck

Course details

Time: 10.00-5.00

Place: Hughes Hall Cambridge

Cost: £120.00

OR

Early bird discount (book before May 15th )

£99.00

How to apply

email rick.harvey@raindance.ac.uk or Penny.hancock@gmail.com

Testimonials from Penny and Rick’s previous writing courses

I found Penny’s course and teaching completely excellent.

B H

The course was illuminating. It really helped me to develop my idea

A R

Well structured, intimate and enjoyable.”

Mal Brydon

Everyone came away with renewed determination and new ideas.

K H

Rick’s course gave me a good theoretical and practical understanding of screenwriting. I’m sure that I will continue to develop my skills and knowledge in that field.

O D

I enjoyed this course a lot, particularly the experience of writing, within the safety of good, clear guidelines and a constructive, encouraging feedback.

M S-M

Articles

If you’re inspired to get writing but aren’t sure where to start, here are some jumping off points I found useful.

Thoughts on the writing process

Inspiration for writing

Penny is happy to do readings, book signings and Q & A sessions. If you would like her to consider attending your event please get in touch.

In the past Penny has participated in panels at Cambridge Literary Festival, Harrogate Crime Festival, and Bristol Crimefest and has given readings at libraries, bookshops, community centres and for reading groups.