Nancy Beverly

Nancy Beverly, and I currently live in L.A. but grew up in Indianapolis. I loved to hike, bike and take photos (since I was a kid) and California has been the perfect place for my outdoor adventures. Of course LA. is the epicenter of show biz and I moved out here for that and worked in TV for many years.

Question 1: What inspired you to start writing?

Mad Magazine! Loved the dry humor when I was a kid. Also the Carol Burnett Show.

Question 2: How have your past experiences influenced you as a writer?

Absolutely. I'll start a script and then realize I'm working out some conflict or dilemma from my life.

Question 3: What have you written that you're the most proud of?

My film Shelby's Vacation. Shelby sets out from L.A. on a much-needed vacation to mend her heart from its latest unrequited crush and ends up at a rustic mountain resort where she meets manager Carol, who has her own memories that are getting in the way of creating a real relationship. Their casual vacation encounter turns into something more profound than either of them had bargained for as they learn what holds them back from living life fully in the present.

Question 4: What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you? 

Not much. I just keep writing until I solve the problems I'm encountering. It's like hiking. Just put one foot in front of the other.

Question 5: When did you first call yourself a writer? 

The 5th and 6th grade -- we wrote fun essays and did speeches in front of the class -- I really came alive then.

Question 6: What is your writing process like? Are you more of a plotter or a pantser?

First I write down ideas that come to me about the topic that is grabbing me... don't censor, just write. After I read through all the notes, then I start the plotting and outlining.

Question 7: If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?

Barbara Kingsolver

Question 8: What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

My playwriting professor in grad school taught us the difference between action (a character going after a goal) and activity (car chases, fights, stuff that just takes up time and doesn't move the story forward).

Question 9: What do you think is the best way to improve writing skills?

Join a writing group and get feedback -- I attend a weekly playwrights' group called Fierce Backbone and have for many years.

Question 10: What do the words “literary success” mean to you? How do you picture it?

Being seen and heard on national platforms -- getting my plays done at larger, respected theatres, getting my TV show airing on cable or streaming services.