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Intro to Screenwriting: Writing the Short


  • Digital Arts Resource Centre 2 Daly Avenue Ottawa, ON, K1N 6E2 Canada (map)

Learn the art of visual storytelling in this hands-on screenwriting workshop focused on short films.

Presented in partnership with the National Capital Scriptwriting Institute, this intensive workshop guides emerging writers through the process of creating a complete short film script (2–10 pages). In a supportive small-class environment, participants will develop an original idea and produce not only a finished script, but also key accompanying materials, including a logline, character bios, synopsis, mood boards and a rough pitch. These deliverables provide a strong foundation for future work in production planning, casting, and pitch deck preparation, which will be explored in upcoming advanced classes.

Session 1: Introduction to Screenwriting: Foundations of Short Film Writing.

Session 2: Creating Character & Structure: Project Parameters; Some “Rules” and Secrets.

Session 3: Act Structure, Beats, Scenes and Sequences: Making the Story Fit the Medium Without Sacrifice.

Session 4: Finishing the Short: Final Polishing & Sharing