Workshops
For writers who are seeking greater depth in their writing - across literary and genre storytelling, and across formats such as film and prose.
Courses are taught in Dutch or English depending on attendees, in person in Rotterdam, The Netherlands or Online.
Upcoming Workshops & Events
Writing Character-Driven Tension
Date: March 21, 2026
This workshop explores character as a system under stress. Rather than focusing on plot to move a story forward, we examine how we can use character as the vehicle.
Using examples from literary fiction, genre storytelling, and film, writers will develop characters who feel internally coherent, even when they behave in troubling or unexpected ways.
Location: Korfmakersstraat 12 Unit 1.4, 3026 XH Rotterdam
Duration: 4 hours
Group size: max 10 participants
Price: €175 PILOT OFFER: €90
Two slots available at reduced rate for students and those with financial barriers. Please inquire!
Halloween Writers Retreat
Dates: October 23-25, 2026
A weekend for horror, sci-fi, and dark fiction writers to focus, write, and connect. Three days away from daily life to work on your project with structured writing time, group feedback, and immersion in the genre. We'll workshop loglines, troubleshoot what you're stuck on, practice pitching, and spend Saturday night at a spooky location for atmospheric inspiration.
Come with a story idea (logline prepared), leave with pages written and a network of writers working in the same dark, honest territory. Includes film screening, group sessions, and plenty of time to actually write.
Location: The Netherlands - exact location to be announced!
Group size: max 12 participants
Price: to be announced
About your teacher: Manon de Reeper
Hello!
I'm a Dutch writer and filmmaker with degrees in Clinical Psychology and Criminology, and extensive experience working across both the American and European film industries. My work moves between psychological horror, science fiction, and literary storytelling, always grounded in character and ethical complexity.
I have significant teaching experience: I co-created the Hollywood mentorship program #Startwith8, mentored numerous writers through the program, and I've been lucky to be mentored by leading voices in horror and science-fiction film and TV myself. I have taught at Hollywood labs and multiple UK universities, with a particular focus on story development and pitching.
I left The Netherlands because I never felt like there was never any room for someone like me, who wanted to pursue genre - not in film nor in literature. Now that I'm back in The Netherlands I want to make sure I pass on the knowledge I gained to others!
Learn more about me and Fathom House: