Catalyst International Film Festival, in collaboration with the National Talent Academy for Film and TV Drama, and with the support of the Writers Guild of Ireland, announces the Screenwriting Industry Day programme for 2026 which includes an ‘in conversation’ with BAFTA winner Danny Brocklehurst and IFTA winner, Ailbhe Keogan. 

Curated to highlight the pivotal role of screenwriting in diversifying the industry, locating new voices and promoting a range of on-screen representation, Shaping the Future in Screenwriting 2026 underscores the importance of supporting authentic stories. These narratives serve as the foundation for creating dynamic, diverse screenplays and compelling characters.  

Full details here.

Deadline to register is 23rd April,

Event Timetable:  

• 1:00pm – 2:00pm 

Irish Language Screenwriting 

Featuring: Siobhán Ní Ghadhra (Danú Media), Richie Conroy (Crá), Cóilín Ó Scolaí, Leah Egan and contributing moderator Bláthnaid Altaf. 

• 2.15pm – 3.30pm 

‘From Pitch to Package: Today’s Market’ 

Panel discussion exploring how projects move from pitch to production, examining market realities, packaging strategies and collaboration between writers, producers and sales agents. Featuring: Mairtín de Barra (Hokum), Antonia Campbell Hughes (It Is In Us All), WGI Chair Jennifer Davidson (HeartFelt Drama, Fair City), Jules O’Connor (Damo & Ivor), Rose Agoalah (School of Media, TU Dublin) Organised by the Writers Lab UK and Ireland. 

• 3.30pm – 4.45pm 

Screenwriting Masterclass with Ailbhe Keogan in conversation with Danny Brocklehurst 
Award-winning screenwriters Danny Brocklehurst and Ailbhe Keogan discuss craft, career development and storytelling for film and television in an in-depth screenwriting masterclass.  

• 4.45pm- 5.00 pm 

Catalyst Short Screenplay Award 2026 Pitching Event   

Finalists in the Catalyst Short Screenplay Award 2026 present live pitches of their projects, offering audiences an insight into the pitching process and the challenges of communicating story ideas effectively.  

• 5.00 – 6.00 pm 

Informal networking reception bringing together writers, filmmakers and industry guests attending the Industry Day programme.