Compton School · Free Workshop · Melbourne
A free two-day workshop about the business of building imaginary storyworlds and the long-lived creative ventures they sustain.
The Storyworld Idea
Stories have a beginning, middle and end — but the worlds they conjure can be open-ended. A rich storyworld can support not just single original works — a film, TV show or game — but sequels, spinoffs, exhibitions, format and remake rights, and other extensions from tourist attractions to stage shows.
But building storyworlds requires a different development model — more patient, more engaged with audiences and working across different media.
Why It Matters Now
Entertainment financing is shifting. Backing discrete assets — a film, a series — is giving way to continuous IP systems that build audience, engagement, and monetisation across multiple platforms.
"George Lucas's first 'Star Wars' — as a kid, I think I saw it 12 times in the cinema. That, for me, was just the essence of this medium — create an entire world that you can understand and live in, that's absolutely different from everyday life. That's the great joy of movies."Christopher Nolan
"The storyworld as fundamental asset does not require the movie business to invent a new kind of creator. It requires it to recognise the ones already doing the work in adjacent fields."Duncan Nimmo · AGBO
Two-Day Workshop
Led by Compton School founder David Court, this two-day workshop will explore the different development paths and very different economics of storyworlds. Guest speakers including Kath Dolheguy and Kate Armstrong-Smith will enlarge the conversation.
We're looking for up to 20 emerging and mid-career creatives interested in a weekend of teamwork, brainstorming and thinking outside the box. Participants will work together in teams of 3 or 4 to conceive a hypothetical storyworld and a business plan for its development.
We'll be learning by doing — moving quickly, testing ideas and sharing feedback.
Expression of Interest
Places are limited to 20 participants. Fill in the form below and we'll be in touch.