ONE SHOT IRELAND

Workshop Series, Wicklow, Derry, Cork and Galway with Mark O'Connor and Paul Butler Lennox & Guests

Overview

Join us for an exceptional series of Filmmaking, Acting and Screenwriting course meticulously designed for aspiring Actor filmmakers and screenwriters. This enriching series, designed based on feedback of what creatives actually want, is spearheaded by the distinguished Irish filmmaker Mark O'Connor and multi faceted Filmmaker, Acting, Vo Coach and creative Paul Butler Lennox, will unfold at the Claremont Screen Hub, with sessions planned across Derry, Cork, and Galway throughout 2026. This workshop is not just an educational opportunity but a comprehensive tool for professional engagement where participants will delve deep into the nuances of screenwriting, directing, and screen/television Acting.

The culmination of the workshop is the creation of short film scripts/ideas and professionally crafted showreel scenes as a package to develop for professionals trying to leave a lasting impression in the Irish Film and tv Industry, providing tangible outcomes that participants can add to their portfolios and confidence build in their collective ability.

Each weekend will also feature a special guest lecturer. Confirmed so far, Tristan Heanue (Wicklow) and Brandan Canty (Cork)

In Autumn 2026 there will be an evening networking opportunity and stage pitching opportunity for participants to pitch their ideas to an industry audience. TBC.

This competitive element offers an unique opportunity to pitch to your industry peers.

There will be an overall prize for the winner of production support of 10, 000 and development opportunity at Screenhub.ie in Wicklow for Gold, Silver winning pitches from all parties participating from Wicklow, Derry, Galway and Cork at our final pitching session competition later in Autumn 2026.

Course Structure Wicklow Classes: (Announcements for further dates in Jan 2026)

• Duration: 3 days (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) 20th to 23rd March 2026

• Time: 9:00 AM - finish

• Location, Clermont Screen Hub,  Screenhub.ie Campus, Clermont House, Newrath, Rathnew, Co. Wicklow, A67 X566.

• Frequency: February to September, across various locations 2026.

Focus Areas:

1. Screenwriting: Advanced techniques for crafting compelling narratives, character development, and dialogue.

2. Directing: In-depth strategies for directing actors and managing a set under various conditions.

3. Acting for the Camera: Professional on-camera acting skills, including scene preparation, emotional engagement, and execution.

4. Showreel scene Creation: Hands-on production of scenes, from material created Short films,leading to professionally filmed and edited showreel content.

5. Self Promotion and self awareness and networking.

Workshop Details

1. Introduction to Screenwriting, Filmmaking & Acting.

   • Instructors: Mark O'Connor and Paul Butler Lennox with special guests on every weekend module.

Activities:

• Deep dive into screenwriting basics, including structure, pacing, and theme exploration. On pre pre-existent idea or short script. Or Script ideas developed on the day/weekend.

• Detailed analysis of said film scripts with a focus on what makes dialogue and narratives stand out.

• Interactive screenplay writing scene sessions where participants will receive individual feedback and engage in revision cycles.

• Shoot of said scenes to create a package to submit for funding.

• Online advice session on package and lookbook, moodboard and applications thereafter. To help you build an offering for future opportunities.

2. Directing Techniques

   • Focus: Mastery over the directorial vision, including developing unique directorial styles and effective communication with the crew and actors.

   • Practical Session: Participants will direct a short scene, focusing on advanced techniques such as blocking, camera movement, and actor motivation to assist in the overall offering post course.

3. Acting for Cinematic Cameras

   • Objective: To equip participants with professional acting techniques tailored for camera work, including subtle facial expressions and body language nuances. Emotional intention.

   • Exercise: Intensive acting drills followed by detailed critiques aimed at refining performances.

4. Showreel Scene Production

   • Execution: Participants will write, bring existing scene from project existing or new and film scenes under the guidance of the instructors, focusing on achieving cinematic quality for career advancement.

   • Outcome: Each participant will receive a professionally edited showreel scene, showcasing their capability to produce and perform in film-quality content.

   • Headshots. Each participant will receive a headshot from professional photographer to use in the professional environment there after.

5. Pitching and Pitch creation and tools:

At the end of the project there will be an industry networking night with online stage pitching or elevator pitch session to an invited audience of peers, family and colleagues in Dublin City Centre. The intention is to pitch this project in under 5 mins and create a collaboration. With Industry professional judges to announce winner of overall project with small grant provided by screenhub.ie

Learning Outcomes

• Deepen understanding of film narrative structures and direction and gudence.

• Acquire advanced directing shadowing skills with hands-on practice over the project.

• Enhance on-screen acting abilities and networking with peers. (it takes a village to build a project).

• Create industry-standard showreel material demonstrating a range of filmmaking skills overall.

• Ongoing online support and advice after project on applications, film festivals and marketing, look books, synopsis and pitching.

FUTURE Locations and Dates for 2026 TBC

• Derry:

• Cork:

• Galway: