“I am a writer…” inspiring talks at the first Newcastle Screenwriting Weekender

Imposter syndrome loomed large at last weekend’s Screenwriting Weekender. It was a constant thread that ran through the talks and workshops so it was brilliant to see hugely experienced screenwriters and industry execs tell the story of how they first navigated the industry - demystifying but also inspiring to hear, especially from the writers from the North of England such as Peter Straughan (Conclave) and Tony Schumacher (The Responder). Turns out being nominated for an Oscar doesn’t shake that feeling either. Also powerful was the specially commissioned talk from John Higgs that explored the importance of the fundamental shift you must make in the way you think of your identity to truly realise yourself as a writer.

Only problem with programming and running events like this is I miss the end and the start of every talk and seeing as I only programmed people I really think are brilliant and want to hear from it’s kinda frustrating!

Luckily there is perfect summary and brilliant distillation of top tips that can be found in this Linked In post from Simon Barnes.

Really hoping I get to programme another edition of this Weekender in 2026, it felt like a much needed tonic and something special to build on.

Image by Rob Irish: Nicole Davis and Peter Straughan at the Screenwriting Weekender