AFS Summer Education Series: Writing

Continuing Education  Summer Education Series

Hone your craft with a week of Continuing Education classes on writing. The series includes practical courses on storytelling, screenwriting, and crafting a pitch for television. You’ll learn all about screenwriting basics, story development, and more through lectures and creative exercises taught by industry professionals.

This series is offered as a single class pass, which includes all workshops associated with the Writing Series (see list below). All workshops are either virtual via Zoom or held in Austin Public’s Studio 1. Purchasing the class pass today guarantees your spot for the series. More details about the workshops will be sent to registrants closer to the event.

For information on scholarships, please email austinpublic@austinfilm.org. Note that scholarships are limited.

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Storytelling Workshop: Before Page One 
July 20, 6–9:30 PM

Principles of Screenwriting Pt. 1
July 21, 6–10 PM

Principles of Screenwriting Pt. 2
July 22, 6–10 PM

Crafting Your Pitch (Virtual)
July 23, 6:30–9:30 PM

Writing “Ask Me Anything” + Mixer
July 24, 6–9:30 PM

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

Storytelling Workshop: Before Page One (July 20)
Instructor: Katya Lidsky

Storytelling Workshop: Before Page One focuses on what truly makes a “good story” a good story. You will learn how to begin from a new starting line and ask the questions that will bring your story to life. As a result, you will write more efficiently and clearly, but also more joyfully, which is important too!

Principles of Screenwriting Part 1 & 2 (July 21 & 22)
Instructor: Stephen Ohl

This two-part course covers the fundamentals of screenwriting, including formatting, structure, and basic character development. You will have an opportunity to engage with a short scene and workshop it with the group.

Crafting Your Pitch (July 23) – Virtual
Instructor: Rachel Lewis

Have you ever wanted to write for television? Do you have a show idea that you would love to pitch? With more networks and streaming platforms than ever before, there are a growing number of opportunities for writers and creators. In this class, you will learn how to pitch a show, handle meetings, network, and think strategically about this business, so you’ll have the tools you need to achieve your goals. Take charge of your career and pitch your way to the top.

Writing “Ask Me Anything” + Mixer (July 24)
Panelists: Maya Perez and Alex Chew

Join our “Ask Me Anything” session to get insights on the craft of writing! Build on what you learned earlier in the week by asking guest industry professionals about craft and career options. Our guests will share their expertise on writing narrative shorts, features, and episodic stories.