The Character Workshop
Theme, Structure, dialogue, story...
all start with character
all start with character
|
The Ultimate Character Workshop
Live Online via Zoom video conference Whether you are a screenwriter, TV writer, novelist, playwright or comedian, great writing and great storytelling come from character. In this six week workshop, we will breakdown the major craft elements that can be better understood and developed through character creation. We will dive deep into character psychology and human behavior with a variety of different meditative and cognitive approaches. We will discover and create compelling characters that leap off the page and write their own stories. Each week we will dive into a new element of character, break down several techniques to discover/build out that part of the character, and discover how it all leads to structure, story, plot, dialogue, and theme. We use research and techniques from Jungian psychology, cognitive-behavioral research, neurolinguistics, sociology, behavioral economics, evolutionary biology, meditation, and user-experience research. Build out as many characters as you desire and learn an organic/artistic approach to the craft that creates powerful, attention-demanding stories. Most importantly, join an inclusive group of artists who want to work harder and dig deeper to make work that stands out above the "average" scripts overpopulating the industry. |
Mondays, 1pm - 3pm EST
Starting March 9th 6 weeks |
6 Week Workshop
This is a live online workshop via Zoom
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
Mondays, 1pm - 3pm EST
Starting March 9th
Live Online Video Conference
This is a live online workshop via Zoom
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
Mondays, 1pm - 3pm EST
Starting March 9th
Live Online Video Conference
MEDITATIVE WRITING REVIEWS
|
“Meditative Writing truly is “assisted self-discovery.” For the same reason writers should take acting classes, Meditative Writing helps you get down into your body, to work a scene or character from the inside out. The practice has applications even beyond writing, into directing, pitching, and just being in the world. This class and subsequent practice has been extremely helpful to me in my work.”
– Christine Boylan, Writer/Producer at Marvel/Netflix “With [Jess] I’ve always felt the deep pleasure of collaborating with someone of genuine seriousness and dedication. Actors find her work challenging and emotionally nurturing and her colleagues appreciate her deep commitment to the truth.” – Christopher Shinn, Pulitzer Prize Nominated Playwright |
KEEP ME POSTED ON UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
|
“Jessica is the real deal… she understands writing and writers and does not mess around. She has the special ability to get to the truth of a character and a scene, and she is brilliant at crafting story. Working with her certainly made me a better writer.”
– Brendan Clifford, Writer/Producer at Comedy Central/E!/BET
"Working with Jess has unlocked so many aspects for me in my life and work. As an accomplished writer Jess is skilled at dissecting any story in any format, but her greatest strength lies in working with the writer's artistic health. She feeds the well from which we expect to drink water. She is astute, kind and an incredible source of trust. I crossed paths with Jess at a very difficult time in my artistic life and she rescued me and continues to be my safe harbor.
You will not regret working with Jess."
– Richa Rudola, Award Winning Filmmaker
“Some writing that came out of Meditative Writing class has landed me a pitch opportunity for an indie feature. I’m excited and grateful to Jess!”
– Mark Grenier, Writer & Filmmaker
“One of Jessica’s greatest strengths is her exceptional understanding of the craft of storytelling; her ability to utilize structure, character, and the word with such grace and ease.”
-Elizabeth Carlson, Artistic Director of Naked Angels Theater Company
“An artist of unusual skill, sensitivity and motivation. In her writing, Jessica has consistently challenged herself to probe the most difficult and complex aspects of the lives of her characters. She is also an excellent collaborator, who holds her fellow artists in high regard – she is both inspired by and inspiring to directors and actors.”
-Pippin Parker, Director of The New School for Drama
“Jessica is a stunningly talented, incredibly driven writer whose work examines a broad range of themes. She is prolific, professional, and proactive in getting her work off the page and into production. She’s an absolute pleasure to work with and learn from, and is, in a word, inspiring.”
– Will Trichon, Writer/Performer
“Jessica is a wonderful colleague: specific in her notes, thoughtful in her assessment, and genuine in her desire to understand what the work is striving to be before offering feedback. Jessica is a truly exciting writer, and great to work with – collaborative, passionate and rigorous.”
– Tamara Fisch, Director
“As a filmmaker, I had the great pleasure to work with Jessica Hinds… for [her] talent not only as a screenwriter, but also as a dialoguist… [and the] imagination and culture which [she] brings out in her work and the project we worked on… I so strongly recommend her for ambitious artistical projects.”
– Morgan Cini, Réalisateur (Film Director)
“Jessica asks a tremendous amount of those around her but never more than she herself offers. Jessica is a complete artist who has never been afraid to work outside her comfort zone.”
-John Hurley, Director
Jess’s Meditative Writing class made me feel like I was back in college enjoying a science/psychology class combined with a joint writing lab. And she is that professor who explains concept and theory so well that when it comes time to do her writing exercises, you are able to throw yourself into them entirely because you understand WHY everything works.
Lindsay – June 28, 2019
meditative writing with Jessica Hinds has turned my writing life inside out, upside down, and diagonal! this is the next wave of teaching and writing. with Jess’ innovative approach, i’m now confident to tell the truth, own my voice, and keep on writing! many thanks to you Jess.
Andrea Mays – June 8, 2014
In just 35 minutes Jess did more for my relationship with my artistry and writing than 7 years of therapy.
Hanna - November 2017
This approach has totally changed the way I write – thank god! I feel successful all the time. I am happier. No more depressed writer for me. I’m working on my script every single day and the screenplay is practically writing itself. My writing is better than it has ever been, and I now understand my true value in the industry — so pitching has become easy. I will continue to take this class over and over again, it’s a great practice that keeps you on the right track, the successful one.
Adam – July 14, 2014
Jessica has a transparency and authenticity that is very reassuring. Her advice comes from the heart and really helps me to dig deep within myself as a writer. She helped me to look at things differently, making writing less of a chore and instead turning it into something I can’t wait to do!
Danielle – September 30, 2014
Jess talked about how to connect with our writing via our feelings. She helped us to connect physically/emotionally/spiritually, using her unique style and genuine approach.
Elaine M – September 30, 2014
Jess gave us attainable goals that really took the pressure off. She was very engaging and gave me permission to not be perfect.
Terri B – September 30, 2014
Jessica is amazing! She encouraged me to keep writing, instead of stopping to think in an outline or draft she pushed me to write through it.
Rayna W – September 30, 2014
Jessica opens the gates to limitlessness! She gives such freedom, it’s wonderful to live in a world without bounds, she is the best thing that ever happened to me!
Emma B – September 30, 2014
Jess got me writing! I’m 22 pages into my script now! She helped bring emotional needs into a tangible want which was a big hurdle for me.
Anneke S – September 30, 2014
Thanks to Jess I’m nearly competed my first draft along with my character bios! She teaches how to think in a new way.
Matt B – November 19, 2014
It helped me move past the fear of putting things on the page. Jessica was very helpful in guiding through the exercises and providing insight on how to break through barriers.
Michael Castro – December 11, 2014
First of all, it is SO great to be around writers! I am so tired of living in the world of my corporate day job. It is fun, a great release, worth while.
Sarah Congress – December 11, 2014
It gave me a new perspective-a new place to pull ideas from.
Janell – December 11, 2014
Between the writing itself and the motivational tools, Jessica has made me a better writer by writing in every class!
Robi M – July 23, 2015
I was actually surprised by this as for most of my life I’ve viewed my body as just this thing to carry my brain around, and it was interesting to learn that the captain is the sub-conscious.
Debbie K – July 23, 2015
Thank you for helping me explore another option to help me honestly and constructively connect with my creative self.
Beckley – July 23, 2015
This class helped my writing by allowing me to feel as if the focus were on me. The intimate setting felt as if it were actually one-on-one.
Sheldon M – July 23, 2015
The writing exercises and assignments helped me to get unstuck by finding out what is exciting rather than what is intellectual or ‘right’.
Katie B – July 23, 2015
This class is inspiring! It helped clear up how I write.
Daryl – June 4, 2016
The clarity of presentation and supportiveness of the instructor were evident throughout.
Rumena – June 4, 2016
Jess’ look at life makes writing fun and magical!
Jennifer – June 4, 2016
Jess’s class has made me love writing again! The trips into my imagination inform my writing more each class!
Stephanie V – June 18, 2016
This class will give you tons of ideas that may be new but will definitely help!
Anon – June 18, 2016
Jess has such great energy! I will definitely take more of her classes!
Stephanie P – June 18, 2016
– Brendan Clifford, Writer/Producer at Comedy Central/E!/BET
"Working with Jess has unlocked so many aspects for me in my life and work. As an accomplished writer Jess is skilled at dissecting any story in any format, but her greatest strength lies in working with the writer's artistic health. She feeds the well from which we expect to drink water. She is astute, kind and an incredible source of trust. I crossed paths with Jess at a very difficult time in my artistic life and she rescued me and continues to be my safe harbor.
You will not regret working with Jess."
– Richa Rudola, Award Winning Filmmaker
“Some writing that came out of Meditative Writing class has landed me a pitch opportunity for an indie feature. I’m excited and grateful to Jess!”
– Mark Grenier, Writer & Filmmaker
“One of Jessica’s greatest strengths is her exceptional understanding of the craft of storytelling; her ability to utilize structure, character, and the word with such grace and ease.”
-Elizabeth Carlson, Artistic Director of Naked Angels Theater Company
“An artist of unusual skill, sensitivity and motivation. In her writing, Jessica has consistently challenged herself to probe the most difficult and complex aspects of the lives of her characters. She is also an excellent collaborator, who holds her fellow artists in high regard – she is both inspired by and inspiring to directors and actors.”
-Pippin Parker, Director of The New School for Drama
“Jessica is a stunningly talented, incredibly driven writer whose work examines a broad range of themes. She is prolific, professional, and proactive in getting her work off the page and into production. She’s an absolute pleasure to work with and learn from, and is, in a word, inspiring.”
– Will Trichon, Writer/Performer
“Jessica is a wonderful colleague: specific in her notes, thoughtful in her assessment, and genuine in her desire to understand what the work is striving to be before offering feedback. Jessica is a truly exciting writer, and great to work with – collaborative, passionate and rigorous.”
– Tamara Fisch, Director
“As a filmmaker, I had the great pleasure to work with Jessica Hinds… for [her] talent not only as a screenwriter, but also as a dialoguist… [and the] imagination and culture which [she] brings out in her work and the project we worked on… I so strongly recommend her for ambitious artistical projects.”
– Morgan Cini, Réalisateur (Film Director)
“Jessica asks a tremendous amount of those around her but never more than she herself offers. Jessica is a complete artist who has never been afraid to work outside her comfort zone.”
-John Hurley, Director
Jess’s Meditative Writing class made me feel like I was back in college enjoying a science/psychology class combined with a joint writing lab. And she is that professor who explains concept and theory so well that when it comes time to do her writing exercises, you are able to throw yourself into them entirely because you understand WHY everything works.
Lindsay – June 28, 2019
meditative writing with Jessica Hinds has turned my writing life inside out, upside down, and diagonal! this is the next wave of teaching and writing. with Jess’ innovative approach, i’m now confident to tell the truth, own my voice, and keep on writing! many thanks to you Jess.
Andrea Mays – June 8, 2014
In just 35 minutes Jess did more for my relationship with my artistry and writing than 7 years of therapy.
Hanna - November 2017
This approach has totally changed the way I write – thank god! I feel successful all the time. I am happier. No more depressed writer for me. I’m working on my script every single day and the screenplay is practically writing itself. My writing is better than it has ever been, and I now understand my true value in the industry — so pitching has become easy. I will continue to take this class over and over again, it’s a great practice that keeps you on the right track, the successful one.
Adam – July 14, 2014
Jessica has a transparency and authenticity that is very reassuring. Her advice comes from the heart and really helps me to dig deep within myself as a writer. She helped me to look at things differently, making writing less of a chore and instead turning it into something I can’t wait to do!
Danielle – September 30, 2014
Jess talked about how to connect with our writing via our feelings. She helped us to connect physically/emotionally/spiritually, using her unique style and genuine approach.
Elaine M – September 30, 2014
Jess gave us attainable goals that really took the pressure off. She was very engaging and gave me permission to not be perfect.
Terri B – September 30, 2014
Jessica is amazing! She encouraged me to keep writing, instead of stopping to think in an outline or draft she pushed me to write through it.
Rayna W – September 30, 2014
Jessica opens the gates to limitlessness! She gives such freedom, it’s wonderful to live in a world without bounds, she is the best thing that ever happened to me!
Emma B – September 30, 2014
Jess got me writing! I’m 22 pages into my script now! She helped bring emotional needs into a tangible want which was a big hurdle for me.
Anneke S – September 30, 2014
Thanks to Jess I’m nearly competed my first draft along with my character bios! She teaches how to think in a new way.
Matt B – November 19, 2014
It helped me move past the fear of putting things on the page. Jessica was very helpful in guiding through the exercises and providing insight on how to break through barriers.
Michael Castro – December 11, 2014
First of all, it is SO great to be around writers! I am so tired of living in the world of my corporate day job. It is fun, a great release, worth while.
Sarah Congress – December 11, 2014
It gave me a new perspective-a new place to pull ideas from.
Janell – December 11, 2014
Between the writing itself and the motivational tools, Jessica has made me a better writer by writing in every class!
Robi M – July 23, 2015
I was actually surprised by this as for most of my life I’ve viewed my body as just this thing to carry my brain around, and it was interesting to learn that the captain is the sub-conscious.
Debbie K – July 23, 2015
Thank you for helping me explore another option to help me honestly and constructively connect with my creative self.
Beckley – July 23, 2015
This class helped my writing by allowing me to feel as if the focus were on me. The intimate setting felt as if it were actually one-on-one.
Sheldon M – July 23, 2015
The writing exercises and assignments helped me to get unstuck by finding out what is exciting rather than what is intellectual or ‘right’.
Katie B – July 23, 2015
This class is inspiring! It helped clear up how I write.
Daryl – June 4, 2016
The clarity of presentation and supportiveness of the instructor were evident throughout.
Rumena – June 4, 2016
Jess’ look at life makes writing fun and magical!
Jennifer – June 4, 2016
Jess’s class has made me love writing again! The trips into my imagination inform my writing more each class!
Stephanie V – June 18, 2016
This class will give you tons of ideas that may be new but will definitely help!
Anon – June 18, 2016
Jess has such great energy! I will definitely take more of her classes!
Stephanie P – June 18, 2016