In-person author event, book available at event

Here it is — Julia McNeal’s playful, practical, and doable technique for creating characters, in book form!

Within these pages, you will find effective exercises for creating unique and compelling characters — complete with writing prompts and plenty of room for notes. This 5 Ways In to Character workbook is for new and seasoned creators of characters in all formats.

Use it as a toolkit, a guide, and a companion in your creative work.

5 Ways In to Character is a spiralbound workbook, that has you as a creator — writer/performer/artist — in mind.  It’s like being in class and having all the time you need to learn about, play with, utilize, and apply the 5 Ways In to whatever you’re working on — wherever you are.

It’s designed for you to use in and bring to your workspace — to pick up, toss to the side, keep on your desk and reach for as needed.

You'll get:

• Detailed instruction on each of the 5 Ways In to Character, with examples
• Three, password-protected audios:
  • Julia leading you in two exercises, so you can practice without effort, any time;
  • and one meditation — great for any artist/creator — to align yourself with your own authentic presence and needs on a daily basis
• A writing prompt for each of the Ways
• A Q&A section
• Appendicies, with cool tools you can use to apply the Ways and where you can read about their origins
• Plenty of space to write and take notes as you work, on every page

“Julia’s Ways In is a brilliant and original set of techniques for exploring and deepening characters which go way beyond what writers usually learn and practice. A wonderful opportunity to learn from an accomplished actress how to access the often elusive essence of characters and what makes them tick.  Julia is a passionate and stimulating teacher and her classes crack open new insights and perspectives for writers committed to creating characters that are fully alive.”
—Valerie Collins, Author and Writing Mentor; 5 Ways In to Character Student

Julia McNeal is an award-winning actor, writer, teacher and coach living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Local credits include: A.C.T., Magic Theatre, San Francisco Playhouse, PlayGround (Company member). TV/film credits include: The Unbelievable Truth; Flesh and Bone; Law and Order; Law & Order: SVU. Julia is the creator of the Five Ways In to Character technique for writers, performers and artists. She works with individuals and groups on creating and embodying character, both in their works and when appearing before the media.