TV Drama Pilot & Bible Writing Lab - 8 Weeks from Concept to Script
Other education that may be of interest to you:
How to Get Staffed as a Comedy TV Writer for a Streamer like Netflix, Amazon or Hulu
Are you unsure how to navigate comedy audiences in a world where tastes and platforms are rapidly changing? No matter what your style or skill set, there's an audience out there for you. But you won't find them until you put yourself out there with the right tools to get staffed or sell your brilliant comedy. Every day there's a new streamer with its own brand and audience to cater to. From TED LASSO to PEN15 to SPACE FORCE, there have never been so many opportunities available. But while making someone laugh gets you a career, it takes more to get you in the door, and these digital players aren't following the rules of traditional networks. In this exclusive Stage 32 on-demand webinar, you'll learn the ins and outs of streaming writers' room styles and how to be effective within them so that your jokes get airplay. You'll understand how to write stories that will thrill a showrunner and get you staffed in a room. You'll have the chance to analyze your pilot to consider where it fits in the marketplace, how to view it as though you're the executive, and determine how to strengthen your concept so that it's ready to sell. You'll discover the differences between platforms, budgets, schedules, audiences, and development needs, and more. Most importantly, you'll learn how to get your work into the right hands and snag that comedy gig at a top streaming platform. Taking you through the state of streamer staffing season and pilot selling is literary and talent manager Spencer Robinson of Art/Work Entertainment. With over 20 years of experience, Spencer has had clients in films from directors Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, Clint Eastwood, Gore Verbinski, and more. His clients have worked on projects from Netflix, The CW, Cinemax, CBS, NBC, FX, Starz, Nickelodeon, EPIX, and TBS, to name a few. Using his extensive experience helping writers get staffed and sell their pilots, Spencer teaches you the do's and don't of writing for streamers vs. network and how to tailor your script to make the best impression on executives at the biggest streamers in town. He lays out how streamers differ from the formatting to structure and specifically analyzes what you should consider before tackling your pilot. Spencer also dives into staffing and sales, and what approach is best for you. He'll also debunk common misconceptions about selling a comedy series in today's market and how you can use IP to sell your show. Whether you have the next great comedy series are ready to land a spot in a streaming room, this webinar ensures you walk away prepared for success. PRAISE FOR SPENCERS TEACHINGS: Spencer was awesome! Super informative and detail-driven - providing great insights. Packed so much into a short amount of time which I'm super grateful for! -Eric C. Spencer Robinson has high energy and packs a ton of information in his lecture. Most importantly Spencer gives realistic advice while encouraging writers to move forward fully informed of the terrain. -Oweeda N. Spencer opened my eyes to how the TV world works with broadcast and streaming. What a great crash course! -Ricki L. "Very enlightening. Gave a realistic view of how difficult it is to get a pilot made but was just inspiring enough to give hope. :)" -Clive M.
Stage 32 TV Pitching Lab: Develop Your Pitch Deck And Verbal Pitch For Your TV Series
LIMITED SPOTS REMAIN - GRAB YOR SPOT NOW Create the pitch deck and verbal pitch for your television series while being mentored by top literary manager Spencer Robinson, whose clients write for shows on Netflix, Amazon, and more! ***Flexible Learning: if you cannot attend any of the sessions live don't worry - you will be sent the links to the recordings of each session within 48 hours of the live session and you will have direct access to Spencer on email to ask him any questions so you can keep up at your own pace and schedule.*** Payment plans available - contact edu@stage32.com for details Do you ever feel like you've poured your heart into a pilot script and series idea but can't move it forward because you don't have the entire professional pitch package that buyers now require? Writing and pitching are two very different art forms and they both have to be executed at the highest level for you to achieve success. In this exclusive Stage 32 5-part pitching lab, you will create your professional pitch deck and verbal pitch with expert guidance from a top literary manager. You will walk away from this interactive course with your complete pitch deck and verbal pitch ready so that you are prepared for every scenario and can confidently approach buyers. You will be guided in this lab by Spencer Robinson, a manager at Art/Work Entertainment (whose clients include Eric Heisserer (ARRIVAL, LIGHTS OUT), Erin Cressida Wilson (THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN, SNOW WHITE), and Kelly Washington (JURASSIC WORD, PARKS & REC), among others). In addition to teaching many fantastic classes with Stage 32, Spencer has nearly a decade of industry experience. Spencer's writing clients work in both features and television on broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms. He currently has a client writing on two Netflix series, and another client who just sold a show to Amazon. He also reps a writer who currently has a project at Jason Bateman's Aggregate Films, which has a deal at Netflix. His on-camera clients have been in films with directors Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, Clint Eastwood, Gore Verbinski and more. In the TV world, his clients have been regular cast members on shows for Netflix, The CW, Cinemax, CBS, NBC, FX, Starz, Nickelodeon, EPIX, and TBS, to name a few. Spencer has taught numerous webinars, classes and writing labs for Stage 32 and remains one of our most popular and sought after educators. Over five interactive sessions, Spencer will take you through what makes a pitch deck great, giving you personal feedback in three one-on-one sessions so that you have a powerful sales tool ready when you hit the market. Next, you’ll dive into your verbal pitch with the elements you need to include, the common mistakes many leave out, and how to use visuals to keep executives engaged. Spencer will also cover the kinds of questions producers ask so that you'll be prepared with the important answers in advance. Additionally, you will learn the different avenues available to you for selling a television series. You’ll get THREE one-on-one virtual meetings with Spencer allowing you to practice your verbal pitch and receive notes and then make the adjustments that you give you the edge you need. Don’t miss out on this amazing chance to work directly with a successful literary manager and get your project ready to hit the current marketplace! Praise for Spencer's Previous Stage 32 Labs: "Spencer will get those who are ready on their way to a kickass first draft that you can send for coverage, which is what I did. 2 Considers and I'm in rewrites now to move that needle. This was my first ever TV pilot!" - Erika N. (now signed to Fineprint Literary Management after crafting her pilot with Spencer) "I cannot speak highly enough of Spencer Robinson. His lab was absolutely life-changing for me. Spencer's knowledge of the scriptwriting process and his first-hand insights into the industry were invaluable. Spencer has an uncanny ability to pinpoint issues with your script, and his notes really helped to elevate the story and characters of my TV Pilot. He is thoughtful, empathetic and understands the challenge of being a writer." --Emma S. "Spencer will get those who are ready on their way to a kickass first draft that you can send for coverage, which is what I did. 2 Considers, and I'm in rewrites now to move that needle. This was my first ever TV pilot!" -- Erika N. "Had a great time learning and progressing my knowledge of the craft of writing and working directly with a mentor who is a professional in the industry. Spencer was fantastic to be taught by! Thank you!" -- Natalie A. "Spencer's teaching style is the best! His patience and easygoing approach is ideal and unique to him. Kudos to Stage 32 and to Spencer!" -- Armando O.
How To Bring Your Film Or TV Pitch To The Current Market
Learn the best way to organize, prepare and pitch your film or television project to buyers in today's market with top literary manager Spencer Robinson of Art/Work Entertainment! PLUS! You'll receive an exclusive FEATURE DEALS list to help you navigate buyers in today’s market. We all have that film or television series that we know needs to be on the screen. Your project is fresh, exciting, and will resonate with millions of people. But how do you get your project out there? What do you even present to decision makers to move the needle forward on your project? Apart from actually getting the meeting with buyers, producers, and investors, you need to know what to pitch and when is the best time to do it. Sometimes your entire script should be written, whereas other times you should only come into a meeting with a concept. How do you know what the best way to move forward is? We’re here to help. In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, you will learn how to best prepare and plan your film or television series pitch to maximize your chances of getting it through to production. You will learn everything from how and when to pitch your film and/or television series, what materials you need to pitch your project, how to get your pitch meeting, and how to use your pitching materials effectively to entice your audience. Teaching you everything you need to know to successfully take your project out to the market is Spencer Robinson, a literary and talent manager at Art/Work Entertainment who's been in the industry for over 20 years. He represents writers, actors, producers, and also a full book publishing company. Spencer’s writer clients have been on the writing staff of shows for Netflix, Amazon, Max, HBO, Comedy Central, and many more. He’s also sold clients’ features to studios as well as brought in financing for independent projects. Spencer’s actor clients have been in films with directors Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, Clint Eastwood, Gore Verbinski, Jeff Nichols, and more. In the TV world, his clients have been regular cast members on shows for Netflix, HBO MAX, Amazon, Disney+, HULU, The CW, NBC, FX, Starz, Nickelodeon, EPIX, and more. Spencer’s clients have also recurred on series for Peacock, Netflix, Freeform, TNT, AMC, Showtime and many more. Successfully bringing your project to market to get a deal requires a great deal of finesse and industry knowledge. You have to understand how the system works and what decision makers are looking for in a pitch. You will walk away from this webinar with the knowledge and skills to do just that, and put yourself in the best position possible to get your project made! PLUS! You’ll receive an exclusive FEATURE DEALS list to help you navigate buyers in today’s market. Praise For Spencer's Stage 32 Teaching "I thoroughly enjoyed Spencer's teaching style. Not only is he conscientious and thorough, but he really cares about all his students. I recommend taking any course he is offering, you won't regret it!" -- Nathan M. "Spencer Robinson's "Writing Descriptions" webinar filled in a whole lot of blanks for me and shone a light on most of the newbie mistakes I have been making when writing/formatting my screenplays. A valuable lesson! Thank you Spencer, and Stage 32." -- Margaret A. "This webinar was very informative! Spencer Robinson presented the material clearly. He was also very generous with his knowledge about the business." --Carmen R.
Stage 32 TV Pitching Lab: Develop Your Pitch Deck + Verbal Pitch
Work one on one with a top literary manager to hone your pitch! His clients have recently sold their shows to Netflix, Amazon and Amblin! Limited spots available Payment plans available - contact edu@stage32.com for details If you’re looking to sell a show or work on a TV show in 2024, you’ll need more than a good pilot script. In fact, most times, producers, networks, streamers and buyers want to see the deck before they request the pilot. Then you have to follow it up with a solid verbal pitch. This is where Spencer comes in. Join our exclusive and interactive private Stage 32 virtual pitching lab led by top literary manager Spencer Robinson of Art/Work Entertainment. If you are looking to sell your show or work in TV in 2024 and beyond, I urge you to take this lab. Not only has Spencer sold dozens of shows, he’s been one of our most popular educators for 10 years. In just 5 sessions (which include 2 class settings on Zoom and 3 one-on-one Zooms with Spencer) you’ll learn how to create a captivating pitch deck and verbal presentation that stands out to buyers. Spencer has an impressive track record - his clients have recently sold TV pilots to platforms like Netflix and Amazon, as well as to production companies like Amblin. In this lab he will offer personalized advice and help you hone your pitch so it shines. This lab covers everything from designing a persuasive pitch deck to mastering your verbal pitch, avoiding common mistakes, and effectively using visuals. You’ll also gain insight into what producers look for and explore various avenues for selling your series. In one-on-one virtual Zoom sessions, Spencer will provide you feedback and coaching to refine your pitch, ensuring you're ready to impress industry buyers. And, this is a private lab and a safe space with like-minded creatives for you to be around. If you can't make a live Zoom class, don't worry! It will be recorded and you can watch it at your convenience, PLUS! You will have access to Spencer the entire duration of the lab and you'll have a dedicated lounge to stay in touch with your fellow class mates to ask questions to. Praise for Spencer's Previous Stage 32 Labs: "Spencer will get those who are ready on their way to a kickass first draft that you can send for coverage, which is what I did. 2 Considers and I'm in rewrites now to move that needle. This was my first ever TV pilot!" - Erika N. (now signed to Fineprint Literary Management after crafting her pilot with Spencer) "I cannot speak highly enough of Spencer Robinson. His lab was absolutely life-changing for me. Spencer's knowledge of the scriptwriting process and his first-hand insights into the industry were invaluable. Spencer has an uncanny ability to pinpoint issues with your script, and his notes really helped to elevate the story and characters of my TV Pilot. He is thoughtful, empathetic and understands the challenge of being a writer." --Emma S. "Spencer will get those who are ready on their way to a kickass first draft that you can send for coverage, which is what I did. 2 Considers, and I'm in rewrites now to move that needle. This was my first ever TV pilot!" -- Erika N. "Had a great time learning and progressing my knowledge of the craft of writing and working directly with a mentor who is a professional in the industry. Spencer was fantastic to be taught by! Thank you!" -- Natalie A. "Spencer's teaching style is the best! His patience and easygoing approach is ideal and unique to him. Kudos to Stage 32 and to Spencer!" -- Armando O.
How to Break into Drama TV Writing for Netflix, Amazon, Hulu and Other Streaming Platforms
The big streaming platforms (Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Disney+, Apple TV) are leading the charge in original programming. The number of new shows being produced has never been higher. However, these platforms have different needs, different expectations and different boundaries and mandates than those of traditional broadcast networks. So how does a creative navigate the big time streaming world? And how does a writer stand out to get staffed or sell a standout drama series? This webinar will explain in comprehensive detail how drama series are pitched, developed, and sold to streaming platforms and what you can do as a writer to position yourself to get noticed. With so many writers vying for an opportunity to sell or be staffed on a show, it’s incredibly important to understand the changing landscape and know the best ways to operate within it. Having a clear sense of how executives at streamers think and what they’re looking for will give you a distinct advantage in adjusting your script to pique their interest or in presenting yourself more effectively to sell your show or get staffed on one of their growing number of series. Spencer Robinson is a literary and talent manager at Art/Work Entertainment who's been in the industry for over twenty years. His clients have been in films with directors Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, Clint Eastwood, Gore Verbinski and more. In the TV world, his clients have been regular cast members on shows for Netflix, The CW, Cinemax, CBS, NBC, FX, Starz, Nickelodeon, EPIX, and TBS, to name a few. His writing clients work in both features and television on broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms. He currently has a client writing on two Netflix series, and another client who just sold a show to Amazon. He also reps a writer who currently has a project at Aggregate Films, which has a deal at Netflix. Spencer will use his extensive experience working with writers and selling their shows to streamers to share some of the do’s and don’ts of writing a drama pilot for streaming television and outline how to tailor your script to make the best impression with the executives at these platforms. He will do this by first laying out how the streaming platforms differ from one another and what exactly they're looking for. Not all streaming platforms are created equal and it's imperative you know the difference. From there, Spencer will dive into script structure and formatting, specifically analyzing what you should be considering before you write your pilot. Next, he will tackle staffing and sales, so no matter what your goal whether to be in a writer's room or selling your pilot, you have all the information you need to position yourself correctly and with the best chance of success. Spencer will even get into the difference between streaming platforms and broadcast networks so you can determine where your material might be a best fit. Expect to leave this class with a comprehensive understanding of the shifting industry of streaming television and a toolkit to better excel within it. Like what you heard from Spencer during this webcast? Send your script to Spencer and speak with him for an hour by clicking here. Praise for Spencer's Stage 32 webinar: Spencer was awesome! Super informative and detail driven - providing great insights. Packed so much into a short amount of time which I'm super grateful for! -Eric C. Spencer Robinson has high energy and packs a ton of information in his lecture. Most importantly Spencer gives realistic advice while encouraging writers to move forward fully informed of the terrain. -Oweeda N. Spencer opened my eyes to how the TV world works with broadcast and streaming. What a great crash course! -Ricki L. "Very enlightening. Gave a realistic view of how difficult it is to get a pilot made but was just inspiring enough to give hope. :)" -Clive M.
Working Writers Lab: Write a TV Drama Pilot - 8-Week Intensive (January 2017)
PRE-CLASS PREP - Read your syllabus and plan out your writing ideas. Begin to think about 1-2 ideas that might be a good idea for your drama pilot. Start to prepare for your pilot pitch. WEEK #1 – Introduction, Pitch Docs, Character This week we will cover the syllabus, your instructor's background and experience, your goals for this eight-week lab and launch into a discussion on creating strong characters for your pilot. We will discuss the types of drama pilots and how they differ from network to network. We will go over how to create effective loglines and pitch documents. Then we will delve into character – what makes for strong characters and weak ones. The assignment for this week will be to create a pitch document and write a detailed description (around half a page) on each of your series regular characters. WEEK #2 – Pilot Outline and Series Bible This week we will break down pilot structure, plot and subplots. Pilot structure varies depending on the type of drama pilot (procedural or serial) and the network (broadcast, cable, streaming, digital, etc.) We will identify what kind of network to target for your story idea and structure the pilot accordingly. We will also discuss the function of your series bible and what it needs to include to support your pilot. The assignment for the week is to complete a pilot outline and start work on your bible. WEEK #3 – Pilot Outline (One on One Consultations – No Online Class) This week will consist of one-on-one consultations regarding pilot structure. Each writer will send in their pilot outline in advance and will have a 10-minute call to discuss what works and what doesn’t. The assignment for the week is to address any notes given on the outline before proceeding with next week’s class and to continue working on your series bible. WEEK #4– Scenes, Beats, Dialogue, This week we will address the qualities of effective (and ineffective) scenes, story beats, and dialogue. The assignment for the week will be to write three complete scenes from your outline: the teaser/opening scene, a scene with heavy dialogue, and a strong character scene. WEEK #5– Acts 1 and 2 We will discuss both the four-act and five-act structure. You will decide which works best for the pilot that you are developing. This week we will go over all the necessary story beats that exist in acts 1 and 2 of a drama pilot, including exposition, number of scenes per act, traditional page count, inciting incidents, acts 1 and 2 breaks, etc. The assignment this week will be to complete Acts 1 and 2 of your pilot. WEEK #6– Acts 3, 4 and 5 Similarly to last week, we will cover the necessary story beats that traditionally exist in acts 3 and 4 of a drama pilot. If your pilot structure has five or more, as some broadcast network shows do, there will be time allotted for further instruction on how to proceed. The assignment this week is to complete the first draft of the entire pilot and to turn in your series bible. WEEK #7–Consultation for Revision (No Online Class) This week will consist of one-on-one consultations. Please turn in your pilot at least 24 hours before your scheduled call, and each writer will have a 10-minute call to go over notes. Your assignment this week is to address any notes. WEEK #8– One-on-one Feedback and Polish (No Online Class) This week will consist of 10-minute one-on-one phone calls as well. Please submit your revised pilot at least 24 hours before your scheduled call. Final notes and next steps for your pilot will be given. Payment plans are available - please contact edu@stage32.com for more information.
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