EDUCATION:

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The Apprentices: March 22 - May 10.  Opening Reception: Saturday, March 22nd at 7:00pm

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Take any 3 or more classes and receive $10 off the price of each!

*IFP Certification available.



Elements of Screenwriting*
Instructor: Michael Maupin
8 sessions: Wednesdays, April 9–May 28, 6:30–9:30pm
Reg. deadline: April 2
Tuition: $265/$225 members
Max. enrollment: 12 students

What makes a successful screenplay? This introductory course will provide you with the basic skills and tools for writing a speculation (“spec”) screenplay—i.e., one designed to be read and evaluated, as opposed to a shooting script. In this course you’ll learn:

• Screenplay basics, such as how the script serves as a film’s “blueprint”
• How three-act structure and character development produce a compelling and emotionally satisfying screenplay
• What constitutes a scene and how it works toward creating forward action
• How to keep dialogue short, but effective
• Tricks for brainstorming plot points and character qualities
• Tips on marketing and promoting your finished screenplay

Students are encouraged to bring story ideas to the first session and will be given two assignments to develop their screenwriting skills. Assignments must be prepared on computer, preferably with screenwriting software (Final Draft, Scriptware, etc.); however, those who don't have such software will be given tips on proper formatting with word processors such as Microsoft Word. The course culminates in two script workshop sessions, where students are encouraged to bring in their first ten script pages for an in-class workshop experience. The course objective is to help students on their way to writing their first-draft screenplay.

Focus on the Funny
Instructor: Susan Marks
6 sessions: Tuesdays, April 8–May 13, 6:30–9:30pm
Reg. deadline: April 1
Tuition: $235/$195 members
Max. enrollment: 8 students

What makes for a good humor writer? Focus on the Funny explores how to tap into your inner comic and infuse your screenwriting (or anything else you’re writing) with wit and creativity. As a class we’ll draw inspiration from comedy television, film, webisodes, commercials, stand-up and YouTube screenings. Participants will have fun weekly writing assignments and the opportunity to give/get feedback.

This class will cover:
• What’s funny and why – it’s not all subjective!
• The number one mistake humor writers make
• The key to humor dialogue
• The crucial difference between the written word and spoken word
• Timing, flow, and delivery
• Techniques for developing your humor writing style
• Must Read/Must See Comedy List
• And much more!

The Business of Screenwriting
Instructor: Bix Skahill
2 sessions: Saturdays, May 3–10, 10am–1pm
Reg. deadline: April 26
Tuition: $145/$110 members
Max. enrollment: 8 students

One half of a professional screenwriter’s life is spent writing; the other half is selling themselves and their work. This seminar covers what happens after you pen your screenplay. Learn how the Hollywood screenwriting sales system really “works,” including how to write the perfect query letter to attract agents, how to pitch your project to producers, how to network and other important tips for how to succeed in the world of film.

 

 

Upcoming Events:

NEW! FRESH FILMMAKERS PRODUCTION GRANT Guidelines Now Available Online!

Deadline: August 19th, 2008

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2008 McKnight Screenwriting Fellowship finalists announced!

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2008 MNTV Call for Entries: Guidelines Now Available Online! Deadline: June 19th, 2008

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