Bring your characters to life in this interactive workshop on character, point of view, and dialogue. Learn how perspective shapes narrative, how voice reveals personality, and how to craft authentic, dynamic exchanges. We’ll tackle common missteps and discover how these elements deepen emotional impact and elevate your storytelling from the inside out.
By the end of the workshop, you will:
For people who are writing a novel or short story, or are planning to do so, and want to develop well-rounded characters.
This workshop is a practical, hands-on introduction to editing the core craft elements of Character, Point of View, and Dialogue – essential tools for creating immersive, emotionally resonant fiction. Through discussion, examples, and exercises, we’ll explore how these elements shape storytelling from the inside out.
We’ll cover:
• The Protagonist Test – a vital tool to assess character purpose, arc, and stakes.
• Recognising conflict – both internal and external – and how it drives momentum, tension, and character growth.
• Dialogue with purpose – understanding its multifunctions, from characterisation to pacing, subtext, and exposition.
• Dialogue tags – which ones to use (and avoid), and why ‘said’ is often your best friend.
• Dialogue dos and don’ts – how to avoid wooden exchanges, ‘info dumps,’ and filler speech.
• Point of View – defining first, second, third (limited and omniscient), and understanding how POV shapes intimacy, tone, and narrative control.
• Filter words – what they are, why they weaken prose, and how to cut them for stronger, tighter storytelling.
• Common pitfalls – and how to self-edit with clarity and intention.
By the end, you’ll have tools to assess and elevate your characters’ believability, narrative voice, and dialogue impact – so your story feels more real, more vivid, and more compelling to your readers.
Please read before purchasing.
The participant:
To help create a welcoming, creative, and productive space for everyone, please follow these guidelines during the workshop:
We’re here to learn, grow, and support each other – thank you for helping make this a safe and inspiring space for all.
We take all instances of negative feedback seriously and will reply within 48 hours of a complaint being made. Please read all the information regarding workshops on our site. If you feel you have not received what you purchased, please email richard@new2thescene.co.uk with the subject ‘Complaint’ and clearly state your grievance.
New2theScene will not tolerate or respond to abusive language.
All outcomes are at the discretion of New2theScene and are final.
What if I can’t make that date?
Please check your schedule before purchasing the workshop. Once a workshop is closed, refunds cannot be given, as we may have turned people away who could have purchased that space.
Do I have to turn my camera on?
It helps create a community feel within the group, however we understand people have reasons for not wanting to be visible. Please email enquiries@new2thescene.co.uk so we know you won’t be using a camera during the workshop.
Can I book more than one workshop at a time?
Of course. Each workshop should be purchased separately.
What happens if I don’t meet the ‘Online Behaviour Guide’?
You may be asked to leave the workshop, forgoing your right to a refund. New2theScene is a community that encourages positivity in an industry that can be littered with rejection. Respect and kindness are at our core.
Will there be more dates available in future?
Possibly. Please keep checking the website, newsletters andour social media for updates.
Will there be other workshops in future?
That depends on the popularity of these workshops! Any suggestions welcome. Email richard@new2thescene.co.ukwith the subject ‘suggestions’.
Who delivers the workshop?
All material is created by New2theScene through research, collaboration with authors and industry experts, and experience. It is mainly delivered by R.A. Howitt – author and founder of N2tS – as he has the most experience delivering talks and learning! If a speaker changes, participants will be notified.
I’ve paid for a workshop but haven’t received a link yet. What should I do?
Links may not be sent until close to the workshop delivery date. If you have any concerns, email enquiries@new2thescene.co.uk with the subject ‘workshops’.
I have issues with internet/timings, can you record the workshop and send it to me?
Unfortunately not. This would breach our ‘Online BehaviourGuidance’.
Will the workshop be recorded?
Workshops may only be recorded for internal auditing –checking quality of delivery, and in case of complaint. Any recording will not be used for gathering information on participants.