Proffitt-able presentation SPARKs enthusiasm for screenwriting

Writing, like life, is scary, according to Logie-award winning producer and screenwriter Drew Proffitt.

Australian screenwriter and producer Proffitt treated his SPARK audience to a valuable glimpse into the world of TV, with a creative presentation on the realities of working in the industry.

Hopeful students were offered plates full of solid advice, with a side serving of grace and humour.

“I think decision making in general is scary – but that’s writing, and that’s life … The best [writing] ‘process’ is hard work.”

And he understands what it is like to be just starting out, as he has to do it on each new project. “Coming onto a new show, it’s like you’re the new kid on the street.”

So, what’s an aspiring young upstart to do?

“Get the coffee!” Proffitt urged, noting that there is no harm in industry newcomers being extra helpful; “humility’s a really good look”.

In fact, a friendly reputation and strong personal relationships appear to be the most valuable crop one can cultivate in TV. “The best thing to do is let people know who you are.”

Proffitt sees no conflict between his roles as producer and writer, instead encouraging his audience with notions of their interconnection. “Writing is like 2D producing on the page, and producing is making that page 3D.”

He has written for shows such as Home and Away and Neighbours, and co-created the Logie-award-winning House Husbands with Ellie Beaumont.

Much of his presentation focused on House Husbands, a wildly popular suburban drama, and the cold but rewarding reality of bringing a show to life.

“The funniest moments probably happened in the writing room, late at night, hyped up on sugar. … [Beaumont and I] make each other laugh a lot when we should be crying in the corner.”

And his own life? “It’s so funny. It’s like a movie; I’m so lucky.”