Some writers think suspense applies solely to thrillers, as a means of ratcheting up tension and the threat of violence.

It can certainly be used in this way. But the truth is that the principles of suspense enrich all forms of storytelling, and can be applied in numerous forms, both extreme and subtle.

Suspense is about manipulating information within narratives – revealing and withholding it.

As well as creating unforgettable scenes and sequences, it can make books 'unputdownable', or keep people on the edge of their seats throughout a film or entire TV series.

In fact many TV shows, like BREAKING BAD, MAD MEN, DEXTER and HANNIBAL wouldn’t have worked at all if they hadn’t incorporated the principles of long-term suspense.
Suspense isn’t a static concept; it’s constantly evolving.

This workshop examines the numerous and changing techniques of suspense as they apply to many genres, and to films, TV series, and novels.

The workshop will:

  • Define the basic principles of suspense
  • Look into the newer, more sophisticated ways in which these have been elaborated.
  • Investigate how these apply to films, TV series, novels and short stories
  • Watch carefully-chosen film clips illustrating the ideas
  • Discuss and debate the concepts
  • Apply the ideas to your own work via enjoyable exercises
  • Full handouts will help you bring the workshop’s ideas home with you​
VENUE
Room 42
​Florida State University
99 Great Russell St
Fitzrovia
London WC1B 3LH

Nearest tube: Tottenham Court Road

MAP
Click here to see a map.

DATE AND TIME
Sunday 15 April
​Registration - 10.15
10.30am - 5.30pm

PRICE
EARLY BIRD PRICE
​*BOOK BEFORE APRIL 5
£85 (concessions £75)
FULL PRICE

£99 (concessions £89)
Concessions available to members of WGGB, WFTV, Society of Authors, BECTU, Directors UK and Newman House