'Thanks so much again, I had an amazing time and learnt so much. You were right, simple, but not easy. Everything makes sense, the model (3 act structure) will make everything so much easier.' D. de Lautour,2006 course.
The Screenwriting Course Dates For 2010 Saturday 24th July to Friday 30th July 2010 at St. Deiniol’s Library on the Welsh Borders. St. Deiniol's reviewed in The Guardian Travel section by Patrick Barkham, Sept. 2009.
St. Deiniol’s Library
Course 2009 at St. Deniols
'Great 'can - do' attitude from Bill, very ...., totally unlike some other 'courses' - debunks them! Refreshing. The tool especially those of sequence and 3 act structure, have been really helpful. Really enjoyed the participatory parts of the course where we worked together and built story ideas. Enjoyed meeting and chatting to everyone.' S. Davies, 2009
Courses Reviewed In Writers’ Forum, a national magazine and in Living France.
After the success of last two years courses at St. Deiniol's we are returning again for 2010. In previous years we have run courses in France. Our friends Tim & Marion, who ran La Borderie in France, have retired so we have sought out and are very happy with the venue at St. Deiniol’s Library on the Welsh Borders.
'The 3 act structure cuts to the heart of the matter; It's like a light coming on and I can't wait to start writing! It's been a real pleasure from start to finish. Thanks Bill!'
K. Crispin, 2008 course
Course 2008 at St. Deniols
Our Philosophy: We really enjoy running writing courses, and hope that this will be reflected in how you experience your course, and your time in Wales this year. We only run a few courses a year because we want these courses to be a one off enjoyable & stimulating experience where you will learn how to write.
The courses and the experience we believe is highly personal, we don't want to dilute this, and the individual attention you'll receive, by running many many courses. We hope that you enjoy it as much as we do. Bill & Rebecca
Course 2006, with Tim, Marion and Steve
'It is probably the most user friendly course I have done. The course was presented in an easy to digest manner, all the information was critical to understanding usage. It has provided a basis I can call on when attempting to follow my dream in the real world constraints of time and distractions.' M. Hickey, 2007 course .
'What I have learnt on this course will definitely help me to become a better writer. As a teacher it will also help me to help my pupils to write better stories which is an added bonus!' M. Jones, 20009
'I will go back and rework a novel I had confused the time line on, and will rework and finish. The evening sessions were excellent.' E. Ridley, 2009
"I knew nothing about scriptwriting/screenwriting when I went on Bill
Dawson's course. Within a year I had won the BBC Talent Drama Writer
competition and been commissioned for my first TV script. As well as
teaching writing skills, Bill draws on his own experience of working in
the business. Without his advice, I wouldn't have been prepared for any
of the realities, such as how to cope with numerous rewrites or pitch to
producers, and might well have sunk without trace." Linda Thompson, Writer, Casualty.
"Bill knows everything there is to know about scriptwriting - and somehow he manages to make it all really interesting! He is a truly inspiring teacher and I'd probably be stacking shelves if I hadn't stumbled upon his class 10 years ago. Go, enjoy - and listen to what the man says. He knows what he's talking about." Johanne McAndrew, Writer, Nice Guy Eddie, Holby City, Casualty, Dalziel and Pascoe and more
"I started Bill's course as a writer of plays. I learnt more
about structure and writing in general than I have done since - well - ever really!
Bill's almost limitless knowledge of story, his unfailing enthusiasm
and always constructive advice, helped me clarify not just what it
takes to be a screenwriter but why I want to write.
Since the course, my first short film has been produced by The Film Council and shortlisted for Raindance and BAFTA and I am presently
working on re-writes for two feature scripts." Alison Down, Raindance and BAFTA 2006 nominated writer
"An extensive and enthusiastic exploration of the screenwriting process. Informative, entertaining and - importantly - utterly inspiring!" Chris Edge, Writer
"Bill's course not only taught me the Holy Trinity of the three act structure,
but also how to go about nurturing a feature idea from concept stage right
through to final draft and even pitching skills to nail that all important
first commission.
Bill's entertaining and encouraging approach inspired both self belief and
determination when morale was low.
I would highly recommend Bill's course to anyone who wants to cut it as an
industry writer." Colin O’Donnell, Writer, latest film 'Salvage' (2008), storyliner on Hollyoakes.
"As a direct result of studying with Bill Dawson, I achieved a Distinction in a Master of Arts in Screenwriting - AND, I now have two production companies vying to produce my first short film! Bill is a first-rate screenwriter of great professional experience, and an equally experienced tutor whose teaching methods are proven. All of his courses are guaranteed to provide instruction, enjoyment and, if students are prepared to work, success!" Kevin Rogers, Writer
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Cost
'The 'structure' lessons were invaluable - debunked the myth of writing, Steve's insights into the TV industry was honest and encouraging, Bill & Steve are two normal blokes who turned a vague desire into a full time profession - gives us all a great boost to think 'yeah, maybe I can do it!' C. Malcolm, 2006 course.
The Writing in Wales Course. The full costs for the course 2010:
£590.00 sole room occupancy
This cost per person includes
all specified tuition, conference facilities, full board at St. Deiniol's with a continental breakfast, lunch, evening meal and refreshments.
Bedrooms are single, twin or double. Most of the rooms have en-suite facilities for an extra fee for the week, all other rooms have wash-hand basins with bathroom facilities nearby.
Additional Person – Not attending the course:
You are more than welcome to invite someone to come with you, who may not be wanting to attend the course. Please just ask and we'll provide further details.
A minimum deposit of £100.00 can be paid to secure a place.
Smoking is strictly prohibited in all areas of the Library including the bedrooms.
'Ultimately the information about how to structure a screenplay has been the most useful. The most enjoyable part was the combination of the people, the tasks and the hospitality.'
S. Chapman, 2006 course.
It's very easy, all you have to do is e.mailorphone me and I'll send/e.mail you a booking form. Once you have completed, signed and enclosed a cheque for the full payment or a minimum deposit of £100.00 per person and returned it to me, I'll then confirm your place and send you further details.
You can also pay the full amount by bank transfer. Or by Paypal, however you must pay the charges incurred. Please ask for details. Paypal accepts the following cards:
Please do not book your travel arrangements etc. until your place on the course has been confirmed.
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French Cottage
La Bo Bo cottage is an ideal place to stay if you are looking for a holiday break in France, separate from the course. It's great if you enjoy both sightseeing in towns and villages, and the peace and quiet of countryside walks. It's also an ideal base if you are house hunting in the area. La Bo Bo sleeps four people in one double bedroom, and one twin bedroom.
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Contact
Rebecca Woods
If you'd like to find out more about the courses or have any further questions - maybe you are unsure if the course is right for you? or you need some more specific information? or if you just need a booking form? please e.mail Rebecca, leaving your contact details so we can get back to you. We are also happy to talk in person if you would like to discuss the course, and what you are looking for. Back to Top
'I have enjoyed every aspect of this course. The level of learning is high and extremely detailed and full of information. The content was both relevant and useful, and during the week I found myself working on my own stories which have stalled, but now suddenly I have a method and structure to complete my work. Very enjoyable, lovely people and I would recommend to anyone. ' G. Fleming, Course 2009
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