Mar 16-21
Totleigh Barton
Residential Writing Course: Fiction
Drawing from myth and history
This Masterclass with Helen Cross will take a practical look at how to approach, imagine, structure and sell audio drama podcasts. What are podcast dramas, and why are they so huge right now? They’re certainly different from what used to be called a ‘radio play’, though they share many of the actors, producers and fans. But these hit audio serials play by different rules; often with bigger characters, more inventive soundscapes and genre arcs that unfold in climactic, often cinematic, ways.
In this Masterclass we will explore how to write one and how to sell it. We’ll focus on building plot, character and immersive soundscapes. Practical exercises will ensure you can apply the lessons of the Masterclass to your own podcast ideas. We will also discuss the state of the industry today, so you’ll come away not just as a more ambitious writer, full of new ideas, but with a greater awareness of how to build audio into your career.
Suitable for anyone with an interest in audio storytelling, or someone who already writes radio plays but would like to push their ambitions further. Prior to the class you will be sent a Listening List of podcast hits to inspire and educate you about the form.
Is this session for me?
Our masterclasses are regularly attended by writers who:
What will I gain?
How does it work?
The Masterclass will be delivered via Zoom webinar, so you can take the session at your own pace, without the pressure of having your video or camera on. You can contribute via the chatbox with your tutor and other writers attending the session. Sessions are also recorded so if you are unable to attend live, you will have access to the recording afterwards. Masterclasses can be accessed from anywhere in the world. Just translate the UK time to your local time zone.
Why Arvon?
Arvon is a not-for-profit charity that has been running since 1968.
At Arvon, everyone who crosses the door of one of our writing houses is a writer – no matter what their age or writing experience – and all are welcome.
For more information About Arvon – Home of Creative Writing since 1968 – Arvon
Online: £40
Concessions: £20
As part of our effort to increase participation in the arts, half-price concessions are available for this course at checkout. There are a limited number of free subsidised places for those who cannot afford the concession price.
We are committed to making our Arvon at Home programme accessible to as many people as possible.
Our FAQ page may also helpful.
Across all of Arvon at Home
Writing Weeks and Writing Months
A note on the use of AI and recording
Subject to funding/permissions/availability (please contact arvonathome@arvon.org for more details)
If you have any access needs that we have not covered here, please contact us on access@arvon.org
See here for more access information.
"These zoom opportunities are really helping to open my world and keep me inspired to write."— Masterclass participant
"Arvon at Home creates a model to participate in inspirational tutoring for writers, at a distance. The feeling of attending to my writing life in an excellent fashion, and still having a half-day for my work and caring responsibilities at home, felt like a good balance."— Masterclass participant
"It was an absolutely brilliant session and very very useful. And it made me realise how much I’ve missed this kind of workshop because of having children and family that I can’t leave. Now we’re all in the same boat the online stuff is truly transformative."— Masterclass participant
Residential Writing Course
Residential Retreat (Tutored)
Residential Retreat (No Tutors)
Online Writing Week
Online Writing Month
Online Writing Day
Masterclass
Residential Writing Courses take place at our houses in Devon, Shropshire and Yorkshire and span a range of genres. You'll work closely with two tutors, each week consisting of workshops, one-to-one tutorials and evening readings. You’ll have time and space to write, and plenty of support. Long after you leave, your creativity will grow.
View CoursesOur residential tutored retreats are designed to allow you the time and space to focus on your writing from our houses in Devon, Shropshire and Yorkshire. Tutored retreats allow you plenty of self-guided writing time without workshops. You'll benefit from one-to-one tutorials with your tutors in the afternoons and a guest on Wednesday.
View CoursesCapturing the transformative power of a traditional Arvon week, you’ll experience a week of workshops, one-to-ones, social gatherings and readings delivered live by two Arvon tutors online. You’ll connect with a small group of fellow writers and unleash your imagination, all from the comfort of your own home.
View CoursesPerfect if you want to commit time to your writing but can only manage a couple of hours a week. Our Online Writing Months unpacks our popular 5-day Online Writing Week over a month of evening classes. You’ll have a weekly workshop, one-to-one tutorials, socials and How I Write sessions. You will develop a network of fellow writers and give your writing a transformational boost.
View CoursesNeed a boost while you tackle your latest writing project? These one-day courses are aimed at writers who already have a work in progress, or a current working practice and would like a concentrated bolt of creative inspiration. Delivered live via Zoom and recorded for you to watch back later.
View CoursesTwo-hour online creative writing workshops delivered live by acclaimed writers. With a mix of reading, discussion, and writing exercises, you’ll get new words onto the page, tighten your technique, and become the writer you were meant to be. You can also access an on-demand back catalogue of past Masterclasses.
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