NICOLA QUILTER

Nicola is a writer, director, producer and former actor. Her company, Rocket Room Productions, has a slate of TV and feature films in development.

Recently, Nicola signed her sci-fi, DISC, to Global Genesis in the USA which she will also direct. Having developed EDEN with Redeeming Features and Archlight Pictures, Nicola is contracted to direct the feature in Australia. She regularly co-writes and script doctors for others.

As an actor, Nicola was a resident character on Home And Away, and has worked for the BBC, Radio 4, ABC, Channel 7, Channel 9, SBS, Southern Star, Sydney Theatre Company, Praxis Theatre (Ireland), La Mama (Melbourne), and The Stables (Sydney).

ZOOM ROOM TABLE READ
& BULLET POINT REPORT

Do actors terrify you! Don't worry they don't bite.
I've had to adapt to the new environment and one of the most enjoyable and productive things I've been doing is Zoom readings. It's fabulous to the script out loud and a really great way to hear what works. I have a band of great actors who are amazing at accents and have wide playing range. Usually four are enough to bring your script to life but we can add more to the table if need be. I can also record it for you. If you are not new-media savvy, I can help you through it.  (Email for price on a short)

WORD CRAFT FOR CHARACTERS & DIALOGUE

'MARY, mother, 34' is not a great call to action for any actor or reader.

Making memorable characters is one of a writer's biggest challenges. If a reader can't visualise or remember them, they usually stop reading and pick up the next script. Similarly when it comes to attaching cast, if an actor doesn't find their character exciting to play, their attention will be else where - a character they haven't seen before that will win them an award!

Do your characters have their own voices?  Are they authentic or simply a story device. Is there dialogue expositional, cliched or wooden?

We can look at one character, a scene or the whole script together.

PACKAGING YOUR FILM    Do I have to selling it too? The answer is 'yes'.
Get your loglines and straplines to sound original and irresistible. The work you do in this area will also save time later when marketing the film. Let's make your synopsis a joy to read. If you haven't done this before, we can start from the beginning. If you're experienced, we'll refine and make sure you're really selling the idea.

For writer/producers we can look at any ancillary materials such as brochures or decks. Brainstorm casting, budget, sales agents and festival going.

PITCHING  Oh no - don't ask me to pitch!

Are you shaking in your boots? Wishing the ground would swallow you up? Don't worry, I know how you feel. Most writers are not naturally good at pitching. Good news is, practising in front of someone while refining with precision will make a huge difference to your style and content. I'll help you grab the listeners attention, feel more confident and give you some techniques to quell your fears.

*We offer concessionary rates to BECTU, WGGB, and DUK. please email and show your membership card or number.