Workshop: Writing Character with Elise Esther Hearst
Step into the imaginative world of character creation in this hands-on writing workshop inspired by the portraits of ZAHALKAWORLD: an artist’s archive. Facilitated by acclaimed writer and playwright Elise Esther Hearst, discover the stories that lie waiting just underneath the lens.
Through a series of playful writing exercises, move beyond the photographs to explore the inner life of a created character. What do they long for? What secrets do they keep? Who are they when no one is watching? Explore the unexpected details to develop a richer character and voice, culminating in a short written monologue.
Focusing on discovery, experimentation and storytelling, this workshop is suitable for anyone with a love of stories, character or theatre. No prior writing or performance experience required.
Elise Esther Hearst is a performer and writer for books, stage and screen. Her book, One Day We’re All Going to Die, was partly inspired by some of the time she spent working at the Jewish Museum. Her theatre work has included the award-winning Yentl, A Very Jewish Christmas Carol, and Batsheva, which won the 2025 Edith Hausmann Award for Jewish Playwrights. Find her on Instagram: @eliseestherhearst.
Image: Anne Zahalka, The Cleaner (Marianne Redpath/performance artist), 1987, from the series Resemblance. Silver dye bleach print. Collection of the artist. Courtesy of the artist.