Animation and Storytelling: Bringing Characters to Life Will Anderson & David Hughes
Sir Duncan Rice Library, Meeting Room 1 (Floor 7), Aberdeen, AB24 3AA
Saturday 3rd October 2026
What makes a character truly come alive? Join traditional oral storyteller David Hughes and BAFTA-winning animator Will Anderson as they explore the art of bringing characters to life through storytelling and animation. From ancient tales shared around the fire to characters brought to the screen, discover how voice, personality, movement and imagination shape unforgettable figures that connect with audiences across generations. Drawing on David’s experience weaving folklore, nature and Scottish storytelling with Will’s character-led animation and filmmaking, the panel will explore their creative processes, the challenges of developing memorable characters, and how different mediums breathe life into stories. With audience participation and a Q&A, this is a chance to ask questions, share ideas, and gain insight into the craft of creating characters that stay with us long after the story ends.
This event will be chaired by WayWORD committee member Millie Hamill.
Will Anderson is a BAFTA-winning filmmaker and animator from Scotland. Based in Edinburgh, he creates character-led, dialogue-driven animated work for film, TV, theatre and online, often shaped by a process-focused approach and an interest in existential themes. Alongside his own films, he also creates work for clients and collaborators including OK Go, BBC, BFI, MTV, [adult swim] and Warner Bros. Discovery.
David Hughes is a traditional oral storyteller, science communicator and outdoor educator. He has an easy going and heartfelt style, blended with a dry Scottish wit that brings old tales alive, playing in the place where the imaginary realm of story meets the magic of everyday life. David tells stories to kindle the relationship that exists between humans and other-than-human nature. He has a Masters in Outdoor, Environmental and Sustainability Education and over ten years’ experience working to support people to connect with nature, others and themselves. Never one to stray from more challenging themes, through stories, David will guide you deep down into the dark woods and back out safely again.
Find the full programme, including accessibility information, at www.waywordfestival.com
This event will be chaired by WayWORD committee member Millie Hamill.
Will Anderson is a BAFTA-winning filmmaker and animator from Scotland. Based in Edinburgh, he creates character-led, dialogue-driven animated work for film, TV, theatre and online, often shaped by a process-focused approach and an interest in existential themes. Alongside his own films, he also creates work for clients and collaborators including OK Go, BBC, BFI, MTV, [adult swim] and Warner Bros. Discovery.
David Hughes is a traditional oral storyteller, science communicator and outdoor educator. He has an easy going and heartfelt style, blended with a dry Scottish wit that brings old tales alive, playing in the place where the imaginary realm of story meets the magic of everyday life. David tells stories to kindle the relationship that exists between humans and other-than-human nature. He has a Masters in Outdoor, Environmental and Sustainability Education and over ten years’ experience working to support people to connect with nature, others and themselves. Never one to stray from more challenging themes, through stories, David will guide you deep down into the dark woods and back out safely again.
Find the full programme, including accessibility information, at www.waywordfestival.com
