Sally Wainwright, a leading UK television drama writer, discusses her writing routine, the importance of solitude for inspiration, and the challenges in creating authentic narratives. She shares insights on character depth in Happy Valley, balancing work and family life, and building a strong foundation in writing engaging stories.
Transition from writing for radio to TV improved storytelling techniques and character development.
Working on multiple TV shows honed storytelling skills and encouraged disciplined writing practices.
Experience on Coronation Street shaped writer's growth, emphasizing the importance of continuous writing and strong narrative engine.
Deep dives
Transition from Theatre to Television Writing Journey
Starting with writing a play during university, the journey transitioned to writing for radio on The Archers, further progressing to writing for Coronation Street. The move to television writing allowed for learning various storytelling techniques, structure, and character development within the confines of specific writing guidelines.
Valuable Apprenticeship and Crafting Storylines
Working on multiple TV shows simultaneously provided an invaluable apprenticeship, helping to hone storytelling skills and tackle diverse storylines and characters. The structured nature of show guidelines, such as the importance of sound effects and character limits, fostered creativity and disciplined writing practices.
Appreciating the Continuing Drama Series Experience
The experience of writing for a continuing drama series like Coronation Street was viewed as a crucial learning curve and a platform for growth. Despite initial challenges of proving oneself among veteran writers, the opportunity to contribute to such a successful show was regarded as a significant and enriching part of the writing journey.
Exploring Directing Passion
The podcast delves into the speaker's long-standing desire to direct and how it materialized after gaining professional experience. Initially interested in directing during university, the speaker pursued this passion by closely observing rehearsals and productions at a theater. Despite the success in writing, the urge to direct persisted, leading to an opportunity to direct an ITV show and then an ultimately fulfilling collaboration with the BBC.
Navigating Hollywood and Writing Challenges
The podcast highlights the speaker's experience navigating Hollywood and their decision to decline writing an American show despite interest. They emphasize their preference for writing in English and staying true to their storytelling roots. The discussion shifts to advice for writers, emphasizing the importance of continuous writing, thoughtful creativity, and the significance of having a strong narrative engine in storytelling.
Join the UK's leading television drama writers, including Jed Mercurio and Sally Wainwright, as they lay bare their writing habits, habitats and career paths for the BBC's Abigail Gonda. A series of up close and personal interviews with the UK’s most brilliant writing talent inside the room where each of these writers actually writes.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
