Stage 32 2-Part Lab: Elevate Your Acting Reel
Other education that may be of interest to you:
Writers: Tips to Handle the "No's" and How to Move Your Career Forward
"No" "Pass" "It's not for me" - What do you do when your script gets passed on by every company you send it to? Screenwriting is extremely hard, especially when it comes to handling rejection. But the reality is, the "no's" are a normal and part of the game. Even professional screenwriters get rejected numerous times a year. This webinar will offer tips and best practices for how to accept rejection, learn from it, and move on. Rejection can actually be empowering, and going through its trenches will ultimately make your scripts stronger and your victories feel that much better. Many aspiring writers let rejection, or the fear of rejection, stop their career before it even starts. Far too many writers quit after one or two scripts that didn’t sell. Even worse, many would-be writers don't even finish a script because they are afraid that it will never find success. Don't let that happen to you. Unless you’re a prodigy, rejection is something you will encounter over and over and over again, even if you become a working writer. But there are ways to prepare yourself for it, and use it as a teaching device to help you become better at what you love. The reality is, you can’t control if someone doesn’t like your work. But you can control how you react to rejection, and how you choose to move forward. ABOUT YOUR STAGE 32 EDUCATOR It took Steve Desmond 17 screenplays to become a full time working screenwriter. He didn't give up and neither should you. Steve has landed on the industry Black List four times and worked with major production companies and studios including Fuller Media (A QUIET PLACE), Warner Bros, Legendary Pictures, Blumhouse, and Mandalay Pictures, and more. FilmNation (PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN, ARRIVAL) hired him to adapt the Stoker-award-winning horror novel THE CABIN AT THE END OF THE WORLD, and he's co-writing a project at Paramount with Wes Ball (THE TIME RUNNER) attached to direct. His short film, MONSTERS, which he wrote and directed, has amassed over two million views online and screened in over 100 film festivals worldwide, winning 45 awards. Steve believes that going through these trenches ultimately makes your script stronger and your victories even better. In this empowering webinar he'll prepare you for it so that you become better at what you love by showing you: The different kinds of rejection, including "no," no response, and the toxic response How to use rejection to make your script better The feedback process and finding trusted readers Defeating self-rejection How to get your script out there Understanding gatekeepers and how to get past them Tracking your submission progress while celebrating the wins Juggling multiple projects so you're always moving forward And so much more! You can't control if someone doesn't like your work. But you can control how you react to rejection and use it to your advantage. PRAISE FOR STEVE'S TEACHINGS: "Before hearing from Steve, I would take months off between scripts if I got a really mean rejection because I couldn't handle it. Now, I'm always working on something new. If they don't want my script. No problem, someone else will or I'll make it myself!" - Emilio S.
How to Capture the Attention of a Showrunner or Manager with your TV Writing Samples
The global television industry is poised to create more opportunity in writers' rooms for more writers than currently exist. And literary managers will be looking for new talent and voices to sign. But to take a seat at the table, you need a solid portfolio brimming with strong writing samples. Showrunners and managers are looking for a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to tell a story in a specific voice. There’s no time like the present to prep a portfolio with hot samples, cool writing, and even cooler storylines. Showrunners need examples from you to make decisions on who to bring in the room. As an unrepresented writer, you have to demonstrate to them that you’re the one. And to do this, a series of writing samples, known as a portfolio, is a surefire way to show off your ability. You need to convince showrunners to bring you on board. If your writing samples lack luster or you don’t know where your story is headed in future seasons, conversations with managers or showrunners could be short lived. You could miss out on opportunities because your script wasn’t up to par, or your original idea wasn’t original at all. Let's make sure that never happens. 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. In this exclusive Stage 32 on-demand webinar, Spencer will dive deep into the kinds of TV samples writer’s should have ready, as well as exactly what managers and showrunners are looking for as they read through them. He will talk about the kinds of scripts your portfolio needs so that you shine like the crazy diamond you are. Certain elements of your script should stand out. Take useful notes as Spencer talks about these elements and helps attendees better understand the importance of solid and saleable characters. And then sit back and take in the golden nuggets he delivers on what managers and showrunners look for in a writer. If you dream of being in a writer’s room, this webinar was made for you. Praise for Spencer's Previous 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.
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.
Assistant Directing 101: How To Run A Set From Prep Through Production
Learn How To Run A Professional Set From A DGA First Assistant Director Who Has Worked With Some Of The Biggest Directors And Showrunners In The Industry Whoever said "time is money" must have been thinking about an Assistant Director's job as the AD Department keeps your trains running on time during physical production. Assistant Directors can make or break your project. If even one member of your AD team is missing or unqualified, it can stall your production and create setbacks you’re not prepared for that can affect your shoot and the entire production. Whether you’re looking to land a job as an AD, build your resume to join the DGA, or you’re a producer or director working to ensure a great production, this course will show you every crucial responsibility and task that assistant directors have and how to excel in this essential role. In this Stage 32 exclusive on-demand course, you’ll dive into all of the AD's production team positions, discussing who does what and how they all work together harmoniously for a smooth production. You’ll break down scripts, learn what to ask the director and producer to create a pre-production plan, and move into creating a calendar and production schedule so that every department is ready when the shoot begins. You’ll cover call sheets, production reports, timeline targets, and even practice breaking down scripts. This is the real nuts and bolts of production that everyone should know. Taking you on this educational journey is DGA first assistant director, Korey Pollard. Korey has worked on films including ONCE UPON A TIME IN MEXICO, STAND BY ME, THAT THING YOU DO, WATERWORLD, CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER, and SPY KIDS 2, among others, and hit TV shows like DEADWOOD, MONK, GREY’S ANATOMY, SALEM, THE ORVILLE, THE ASSASSINATION OF GIANNI VERSACE, and many more. Korey also holds a position on The First Assistant Director/Unit Production Manager Committee of The Directors Guild of America. Korey will share his first-hand experiences as an assistant director so that you know how to clearly communicate with your director and crew to maximize the potential of any shoot while also being prepared to recover from inevitable missteps. He'll also walk you through several key documents that First A.D.s use including call sheets, production reports, script pages, script breakdowns, and more. After these four sessions, you’ll be on your path to joining the Directors Guild by working as an assistant director. You’ll be prepared to create an achievable production plan and schedule, the tools to work with your team, and know this vital role in making any feature film or television series.
How You Can Write And Produce A Successful Holiday Romantic Comedy
Learn from an executive and producer with over 25 years of experience behind holiday and rom-com films such as A LOUD HOUSE CHRISTMAS, LOVE AT FIRST BARK, LOVE UNDER THE STARS, and more. Holiday-themed romantic comedies have become a year-round staple for television viewers. It goes beyond Christmas. There’s a holiday event every month and a “rom-com” on countless networks and platforms to celebrate it. So are you ready to write or produce your feel-good holiday-themed rom-com for audiences worldwide? In this exclusive Stage 32 on-demand webinar, you’ll learn how to write, develop, and produce a holiday rom-com. These films aren’t the same as straight Christmas movies or other romantic comedies. The holiday rom-com is its own genre, and you’ll find out the rules and norms that audiences require and how to break those rules effectively. You won’t just learn how to write these stories but also who the buyers are how and how to produce them. You will cover the budget ranges, how to generate the budget, how to monetize your film, and what you need to sell your film. It’s no longer just Hallmark telling these audience-favorite stories. Now, they’re being shown on networks and streaming platforms across the spectrum, giving you more opportunities than ever to get your project made. Your teacher is Matt Bierman, a studio executive and producer with over 25 years of experience. Matt has previously worked as an executive at Walt Disney Pictures, Paramount, Warner Bros., Village Roadshow, and more. He has also developed and produced movies for Hallmark and Nickelodeon. Matt has vast experience making low-budget holiday films and romantic comedies, including A LOUD HOUSE CHRISTMAS, CHRISTMAS WITH THE DARLINGS, LOVE AT FIRST BARK, LOVE UNDER THE STARS, and more. You’ll learn all about this hugely popular genre as Matt shares his vast knowledge and experience with you so you can discover how to jump into this in-demand genre by writing and producing your own movie today. Praise for Matt's Talent & Knowledge: “Matt Bierman is one of the best movie execs and producers that I have worked with” – Brian Levant, director of Jingle All The Way, A Christmas Story 2 "This lab was one of the best educational experiences I have ever experienced. I feel so confident in my work after getting guidance from Matt. Thank you, Stage 32!" -- Rebecca M. "Matt Bierman knows his stuff! I highly recommend taking any course he is teaching." -- Marcus E.
Actors: How To Prepare To Work With An A-List Director
Actors: Learn how to develop your own preparation techniques from an actor who has worked with A-list directors like Marco Bellocchio, Ridley Scott and more, and whose new film, KIDNAPPED, was in competition for the Palme d'Or at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival! Plus! You'll receive an exclusive handout to help you develop your acting craft. This year, Alessandro Fiorucci walked the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of his new film KIDNAPPED, helmed by A-list director Marco Bellocchio. KIDNAPPED was in competition for the prestigious Palme d'Or award, the highest prize awarded at the Cannes Film Festival, as featured in Variety (to read the article, click here). This is every actor's dream, but it took years for Alessandro to hone his craft so that he can enjoy opportunities like this. Perfecting his craft is what got Alessandro his role in KIDNAPPED. In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, Alessandro will teach you his acting process so you can prepare yourself to work with A-list directors. Alessandro is an actor, director and screenwriter with decades of experience in the entertainment industry. Alessandro has worked with acclaimed directors such as Marco Bellocchio (THE TRAITOR), Paolo Virzì (MAGIC NIGHTS, THE LEISURE SEEKER), Stefano Mordini (THE INVISIBLE WITNESS, THE PLAYERS), and many others, including working on set for Ridley Scott (BLADE RUNNER, GLADIATOR, ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD). Alessandro attended renowned acting schools "La Scuola delle Arti di Pino Quartullo" and the "Recitare Cantando" school, which is partnered with the "Actors Studio" in Los Angeles. Do you want to take your acting to the next level? From Stanislavsky to Meisner, there are countless schools of thought when it comes to acting training, but what’s most important is that you find a style and technique that works best for you and that will help bring your characters to life. Whether on set, in an audition room, or filming self tapes, it is critical that you hone your craft so you consistently perform your best work. This is what will prepare you to work with A-listers when you earn the opportunity. In this rare opportunity for actors, Alessandro will teach you how you can create your own acting preparation process to ensure you book your auditions and have success on set. Alessandro is here to help you improve your craft and preparation process so your career can flourish! PLUS! Alessandro will provide you with an exclusive handout to help you hone your acting craft. Downloads include: Comprehensive Acting Technique Guide A good actor spends their entire career learning and refining their craft. It all starts from knowing how to explore yourself and your character, and this webinar will provide you with the tools and outlook necessary to help you develop your own technique that will carry you through your career and have you ready when it's time to work with an A-List director! "As an award-winning international actor and lover of the seventh art, I am so excited to teach you how to create your characters in this webinar!" - Alessandro on teaching for Stage 32
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