Whether we are writing a screen or a stage play, a novel, memoir or short story, characterisation is an important element that infuses much of the narrative and drives the plot. But how do we create credible three-dimensional characters that emotionally engage our readers? This short workshop is designed to explore a range of technical tools for creating believable and interesting characters. Through a combination of discussions, readings and writing exercises, participants will work on developing a character. We’ll be exploring how to use dialogue to create a unique voice for a character, the role description plays in bringing a character to life, how to motivate a character’s actions and how a character might change and develop through the course of a story.  

Dr Rosie Dub is the author of two novels, Flight and Gathering Storm, which is currently being adapted for screen. Rosie has been working as a mentor, manuscript assessor and teacher of creative writing for many years, running workshops on all aspects of creative writing at introductory and advanced levels and teaching on the online MA in Writing program at Swinburne University in Melbourne. She is also the facilitator of Centre for Story (www.centreforstory.com), which is a growing platform for the creation of stories that reimagine our world, enabling positive change in individuals and societies.