Transitioning from Documentary to Drama Directing

Creatives

Overview

This intensive 4 day course taking place on Monday, 23rd, Tuesday, 24th, Wednesday, 25th and Thursday, 26th March 2026 from 10am to 5.30pm each day, run in partnership with Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, led by award-winning director Conor Morrissey, is aimed at directors with a documentary background who want to transition into the world of television drama.

Acknowledging that documentary directors already have an incredibly useful skillset the course will explore how these skills can be effectively utilized in the service of scripted drama.

Working closely with each of the participants the course will explore how their original voices as documentary directors can be channeled into effective drama storytelling. Drawing on Conor Morrissey’s extensive experience of working in both forms the course will explore a practical methodology of drama direction that effectively captures the immediacy of documentary film making.

Two days of classroom based learning and then two days of shooting with a camera operator and actors. Each participant will get the opportunity to shoot a scene.

Learning Outcomes

Understand the Drama Production Process: Break down the drama production process into its constituent parts and explore how a documentary aesthetic can enhance each part.
Create Realistic Story Worlds: Learn to effectively create story worlds that draw on the complexity of real life.
Energize Set Pieces and Action Sequences: Discover how a documentary aesthetic can invigorate set pieces and action sequences.
Collaborate with Actors: Deep dive into collaboration with actors to create performances that feel fresh and alive.
Practical Filmmaking Skills: Gain hands-on experience by shooting a scripted scene that combines documentary storytelling skills with the demands of scripted production, using professional camera personnel and actors.
Career Management: Receive instruction on career management and the necessary steps to transition between documentary and drama.
Enhance Documentary Directing Skills: Acquire a series of effective tools to enhance work as documentary directors and open up new possibilities in scripted drama.

Participant Profile/Who Can Apply/Eligibility

Applicants will need to have previous professional experience directing documentaries with a minimum of three years experience. .

This is not an entry level course.

Costs/Fee

This workshop would normally cost €1240 per person. Successful applicants can avail of a rate of €495 per person, supported by Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland.