Got a great idea for a binge-worthy TV series? Are you wondering if that murder mystery you’re working on could be adapted into a series? Maybe you’ve imagined an epic adventure for the big screen you could expand into a compelling story for the small screen?
“In the entertainment industry, it all starts with the writer,” says instructor Kate Montgomery. “And virtually every writer working in television today has showcased their story-telling ability by writing an original series pilot.”
In this 3-week class, you’ll learn what goes into writing an original series and how a strong pilot and pitch can land you a writing job on an existing series. Through a mix of short lectures and individual and team writing exercises, you’ll learn by doing, applying the skills we cover as we go.
We’ll focus on these story writing and pitching essentials:
- How to identify and articulate a compelling central concept
- How to format your script using the four-act TV structure
- How to hook your audience with an astonishing inciting incident
- How to craft intriguing, layered characters that draw us in
- The turning points and cliffhangers that make a show binge-worthy
- Why you need a page-turning “Series Bible”
- How to target the producers most likely to appreciate your work
- How to write an effective Query Letter
“This class is designed for writers with no prior experience through those with a background in screenwriting,” Kate says. “It’s a lively mix of quick lectures combined with writing exercises, where you can put concepts into practice and get ready to start your own script.”
*This course includes materials you’ll be able to keep to study later. Participants also qualify for a student discount on FinalDraft screenwriting software, long regarded as the industry standard.
About The Writing Salon's Online Zoom Classes
You will be able to participate in live class meetings via Zoom videoconference. To attend classes, you'll need a phone, tablet or computer and access to the internet. You can participate in the class from wherever you'd like, whether on your living room couch or in your office. Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about Zoom and your remote class. If you have any questions about remote learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.
- Live Zoom Meeting: Wednesday, November 06, 2:00pm-4:30pm
- Live Zoom Meeting: Wednesday, November 13, 2:00pm-4:30pm
- Live Zoom Meeting: Wednesday, November 20, 2:00pm-4:30pm
Kate Montgomery was not only warm and inviting, she was 100% prepared, providing stacks of carefully considered handouts while also maintaining a flexibility to follow the rhythm of our group. Her knowledge in the field was undeniable and her enthusiasm for discussing and dissecting students' ideas was balanced by honest notes and critiques. I hope to be signing up for another class of hers soon.
Now, this may sound like a cliche, but Kate inspired me to make time in my life for what I really want to do: write stories. And that’s hard, I’m a cynical Eastern European, hard to impress and convince. But now I’m going to spend a couple of hours each week to write something down, and if she’ll invite me I’ll go to all her events and workshops, pitch my story ideas, and do my best to create amazing work. She is incredibly charismatic, and it feels great to be around her. But the whole inspiration part is what makes her a standout teacher.