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Aurora - a storytelling Retreat 

Craft Your Screenplay Beneath the Northern Lights! 

Multi-awarded UK-based writer-director and film producer Stéphanie Joalland will be leading the workshop and sharing her extensive script development expertise with us. Guest masterclasses with actor Rune Temte (Captain Marvel, The Last Kingdom) & Producer-Director Sean McConville

Mefjord Brygge, Senja, Norway: 25th - 31st January 2026

More info

Aurora - a storytelling Retreat in the arctic

Multi-awarded UK-based writer-director and film producer Stéphanie Joalland will be leading the workshop.

Guest masterclasses by actor Rune Temte, (Captain Marvel, The Last Kingdom) & Sean McConville, producer - director.

More info

Who is this for?

 

This retreat is for new and experienced writers who have a story to tell and would like to turn it into a feature film screenplay. It is also perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with nature, their own voice and their creativity.

Daily workshops 

Every morning and early afternoon you will have the opportunity to share your story and receive feedback in a relaxed environment. Through guided exercises and support from Stéphanie Joalland, an industry professional with a wealth of script development expertise, you’ll explore how your story idea can be shaped into a powerful narrative.

Additional Master classes by actor Rune Temte and director -producer Sean McConville during the week.

More info

Who is this for?

This retreat is for new and experienced writers who have a story to tell and would like to turn it into a feature film screenplay.

It’s also perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with nature, their own voice and their creativity.

Daily workshops 

Every morning and early afternoon you will have the opportunity to share your story and receive feedback in a relaxed environment. Through guided exercises and support from Stéphanie Joalland, an industry professional with a wealth of script development expertise, you’ll explore how your story idea can be shaped into a powerful narrative.

Additional Master classes by actor Rune Temte and director -producer Sean McConville during the week.

✨ Aurora – A Storytelling Retreat

Craft Your Screenplay Beneath the Northern Lights

Are you an emerging screenwriter ready to ignite your storytelling potential?
Join us at Aurora – a one-of-a-kind creative retreat in breathtaking Senja, Norway, designed exclusively for new and experience-hungry screenplay writers.

At Aurora, your story takes center stage.
Over six transformational days (January 25–31, 2026), you’ll dive deep into the art of screenwriting through hands-on workshops, inspiring lectures, and peer collaboration — all while surrounded by the raw, untamed beauty of the Arctic landscape.

What makes Aurora unique?

  • 🎬 Focused Screenplay Development: Work intensively on your film script with guidance from seasoned professionals like StĂ©phanie Joalland, acclaimed filmmaker and mentor.

  • 🧑‍🎤 Guest Masterclasses with Actor Rune Temte & Producer - Director Sean McConville

  • 🌌 Inspiration from Nature: Let the majestic fjords, snow-capped peaks, and Northern Lights stir your creativity.

  • 🤝 Community & Collaboration: Exchange ideas with fellow writers, build lifelong connections, and find your creative tribe.

  • đź›– All-Inclusive Comfort: Private or shared accommodations, all meals included.

Whether you are polishing your script or crafting a bold new story, Aurora provides the focus, mentorship, and atmosphere to take your screenwriting journey to the next level.

Limited spots available.
Escape the ordinary. Create the extraordinary.
Learn more and register now

When & where?

The retreat will take place on Mefjord Brygge on the beautiful island of Senja in Northern Norway. 

Sunday 25th - Saturday 31st January 2026

We meet Sunday evening to get to know each other.  The workshop starts Monday morning - with a final dinner together Friday night. Departure Saturday morning from Mefjord Brygge. 

Travel time Tromso Airport - Mefjord Brygge approx 3 hours. 

Travel time from Bardufoss Airport - Mefjord Brygge: approx 2 hours.

When and where? 

The retreat will take place on Mefjord Brygge on the beautiful island of Senja in Northern Norway.

Sunday 25th - Saturday 31st January 2026.

We meet Sunday evening to get to know each other.  The workshop starts Monday morning - with a final dinner together Friday night. Departure Saturday morning from Mefjord Brygge. 

Travel time Tromso Airport - Mefjord Brygge approx 3 hours. 

Travel time from Bardufoss Airport - Mefjord Brygge: approx 2 hours.

 

Discover and develop your Creative Voice in the Arctic!

Welcome to an unforgettable creative retreat on the magical island of Senja in Northern Norway—a place where the adventure of nature blends seamlessly with your personal journey. Over six days, we will dive into the art of storytelling and explore how stories can deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Senja, known for its dramatic mountains, crystal-clear fjords, and enchanted forests, is a place where nature speaks to us. Here, under the northern sky, we will draw inspiration from the stillness, the light, and the raw landscape—perfect surroundings to awaken your creative spirit.

Workshop leader

Stéphanie Joalland is a film producer and writer-director with a love of genre, especially the supernatural and sci-fi. Originally from France, she studied filmmaking at UCLA and now lives in London, where she co-founded Frenzy Films 

Her feature film THE QUIET HOUR is on Netflix and her projects have won prestigious international accolades. Among them, her award-winning climate-change related project ICE is a co-production with the Nordic Countries. She regularly lectures at the University of Cambridge and NFTS.

Having spent half a year in Norway as an Erasmus student, she couldn't resist the appeal of the Northern Lights!

Guest Masterclass

Rune Temte is a renowned Norwegian actor and producer, celebrated for his commanding presence and versatile performances across film, television, and stage.

Internationally recognized, Rune has appeared in major productions such as Captain Marvel, Time Bandits and the acclaimed series The Last Kingdom. Beyond acting, Rune is known for his dedication to storytelling, mentoring emerging talent, and championing powerful, character-driven narratives.

Guest masterclass 

Sean McConville is a British/Irish producer-writer-director and co-founder of Frenzy Films. After working on studio movies such as STAR WARS: THE PHANTOM MENACE and James Bond movies GOLDENEYE and TOMORROW NEVER DIES, he obtained an MA in screenwriting from the London College of Communication and studied screenwriting at UCLA. His feature film DEADLINE starred Brittany Murphy and Thora Birch, sold all around the world and premiered on Sky Cinema. He produced THE QUIET HOUR which is now on Netflix. His upcoming genre feature project, THE LAST MOON, was selected for the Marché du Film "Fantastic 7" this year at Cannes. He is a Berlinale Talents and Cannes Producers Networks alumnus.

Workshop leader

Stéphanie Joalland is a film producer and writer-director with a love of genre, especially the supernatural and sci-fi. Originally from France, she studied filmmaking at UCLA and now lives in London, where she co-founded Frenzy Films 

Her feature film THE QUIET HOUR is on Netflix and her projects have won prestigious international accolades. Among them, her award-winning climate-change related project ICE is a co-production with the Nordic Countries. She regularly lectures at the University of Cambridge and NFTS.

Having spent half a year in Norway as an Erasmus student, she couldn't resist the appeal of the Northern Lights!

Guest speaker

Rune Temte is a renowned Norwegian actor and producer, celebrated for his commanding presence and versatile performances across film, television, and stage.

Internationally recognized, Rune has appeared in major productions such as Captain Marvel, Time Bandits and the acclaimed series The Last Kingdom.

Beyond acting, Rune is known for his dedication to storytelling, mentoring emerging talent, and championing powerful, character-driven narratives.

Guest masterclass

 

Sean McConville is a British/Irish producer-writer-director and co-founder of Frenzy Films. After working on studio movies such as STAR WARS: THE PHANTOM MENACE and James Bond movies GOLDENEYE and TOMORROW NEVER DIES, he obtained an MA in screenwriting from the London College of Communication and studied screenwriting at UCLA. His feature film DEADLINE starred Brittany Murphy and Thora Birch, sold all around the world and premiered on Sky Cinema. He produced THE QUIET HOUR which is now on Netflix. His upcoming genre feature project, THE LAST MOON, was selected for the Marché du Film "Fantastic 7" this year at Cannes. He is a Berlinale Talents and Cannes Producers Networks alumnus.

Mefjord Brygge, Senja

 

Senja, often referred to as Norway’s best-kept secret, is the second-largest island in the country, nestled above the Arctic Circle in Troms County. This magical island offers a breathtaking mix of wild beauty and serene tranquility, making it the perfect setting for a creative retreat.

Why Senja for a Creative Retreat?

The raw beauty, untouched nature, and peaceful atmosphere of Senja create the perfect backdrop for creative exploration. On this island, you can reconnect with nature, discover your inner voice, and allow the stunning surroundings to fuel your creativity. Whether it’s the stillness of the fjords, the grandeur of the mountains, or the ever-changing sky, Senja will leave you feeling inspired, renewed, and ready to tell your story.

Senja isn't just a location—it's a muse, waiting to awaken the creativity within you.

Background photo: Vegard Olsen

MEFJORD BRYGGE, Senja

Senja, often referred to as Norway’s best-kept secret, is the second-largest island in the country, nestled above the Arctic Circle in Troms County. This magical island offers a breathtaking mix of wild beauty and serene tranquility, making it the perfect setting for a creative retreat.

Why Senja for a Creative Retreat?

The raw beauty, untouched nature, and peaceful atmosphere of Senja create the perfect backdrop for creative exploration. On this island, you can reconnect with nature, discover your inner voice, and allow the stunning surroundings to fuel your creativity. Whether it’s the stillness of the fjords, the grandeur of the mountains, or the ever-changing sky, Senja will leave you feeling inspired, renewed, and ready to tell your story.

Senja isn't just a location—it's a muse, waiting to awaken the creativity within you.

Background photo: Vegard Olsen

Program

You arrive Sunday evening (25th Jan.)

Workshop every day, Monday - Friday: Focused Screenplay Development: Work intensively on your story with guidance from Stéphanie Joalland, award-winning, acclaimed filmmaker and mentor.

We wrap up our retreat with a dinner and an open mic night Friday 30th Jan - Departure Saturday morning (31st Jan)

This is included 

 Workshop Fee
€800,-


This includes:
· One week of daily workshops and creative sessions lead by Stéphanie Joalland.
· Inspiring group activities

Guest Masterclasses with actor Rune Temte & Producer - Director Sean McConville

Accommodation

Option 1: Private Room
· Single occupancy with ensuite bathroom
· Includes breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner
· €168 per night → €1008 total for 6 nights
Option 2: Shared Apartment 
· Private bedroom in a shared apartment with two other participants
· Shared bathroom, kitchen, and living area
· Includes breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner
· €127 per night → €762 total for 6 nights

Program Schedule (preliminary)

Sunday, January 25 — Arrival & Welcome

  • 15:00–18:00 — Check-in at Mefjord Brygge

  • 19:00 — Welcome dinner and group introductions

Monday, January 26 — Friday, January 30

Daily structure with Stéphanie Joalland.

Focus: Developing your story into a screenplay (structure, theme, world, character arcs)

08:00–09:00 — Breakfast
09:30–12:30 — Morning Workshop with Stephanie Joalland
Crafting the story spine, deepening character, refining theme

12:30–14:00 — Lunch break

14:00–16:00 — Afternoon Guided Writing & Feedback Sessions
Individual work, mentor feedback, group discussions

16:00–19:00 — Free time (optional wellness activities: sauna, jacuzzi, nature walks)

19:00 — Group dinner

Special Sessions:

  • One day during the week (TBA)
    🎭 Masterclass with Actor Rune Temte
    Bringing characters to life: insights from an actor’s perspective

  • Masterclass with Director-Producer Sean McConville Your next steps - Where do you go from here 
Saturday, January 31 — Departure

  • 08:00–10:00 — Breakfast and check-out

  • Optional group reflection and farewells

Note:
Optional excursions (Northern Lights Safari / Arctic Boat Safari) can be booked directly at Mefjord Brygge during the retreat week.

Mentor reserves the right to amend this schedule on an as-needed basis.

Program Schedule

Sunday, January 25 — Arrival & Welcome

  • 15:00–18:00 — Check-in at Mefjord Brygge

  • 19:00 — Welcome dinner and group introductions

Monday, January 26 — Friday, January 30

Daily structure with Stephanie Joalland
Focus: Developing your story into a screenplay (structure, theme, world, character arcs)

08:00–09:00 — Breakfast
09:30–12:30 — Morning Workshop with Stephanie Joalland
Crafting the story spine, deepening character, refining theme

12:30–14:00 — Lunch break

14:00–16:00 — Afternoon Guided Writing & Feedback Sessions
Individual work, mentor feedback, group discussions

16:00–19:00 — Free time (optional wellness activities: sauna, jacuzzi, nature walks)

19:00 — Group dinner

Special Session:

  • One day during the week (TBA)
    🎭 Masterclass with Actor Rune Temte
    Bringing characters to life: insights from an actor’s perspective

  • Masterclass with Director-Producer Sean McConvilleYour next steps - Where do you go from here
  • Saturday, January 31 — Departure

  • 08:00–10:00 — Breakfast and check-out

  • Optional group reflection and farewells

Note:
Optional excursions (Northern Lights Safari / Arctic Boat Safari) can be booked directly at Mefjord Brygge during the retreat week.

Register here

This is a unique opportunity to explore your creative potential in some of Norway's most inspiring surroundings. 

Sign up today to make sure you receive all the news about this magical creative retreat planned for January 2026. 

Join the retreat

Background photo: Vegard Olsen

Register here

This is a unique opportunity to explore your creative potential in some of Norway's most inspiring surroundings. 

Sign up today to make sure you receive all the news about this magical creative retreat planned for January 2026. 

join the retreat

Background photo: Vegard Olsen