For the second year in a row, the Writers’ Program will have a major presence at STORY EXPO: the world’s largest convention for writers. Whether you’re a budding novelist, a seasoned screenwriter, or an overall writing enthusiast who’d like to learn more about the art and craft, Story Expo is the place to be. Over 100 creative professionals will be giving mini-lectures or “classes” scheduled throughout each of the three days, on topics ranging anywhere from breaking a story to pitching it. For screenwriters who have finished projects in their repertoire, there will even be a Pitching Room where over 70 production companies will be accepting up to 5-minute pitches and offering feedback. (Note: both classes and pitch times must be purchased and/or scheduled in advance on the Story Expo website, listed below).

Among the 100+ classes offered, the Wp’ will be hosting two. Recent UCLA Extension Distinguished Instructor Award recipient Billy Mernit will be chairing the class “Emotional Connection in Your Screenplay along with fellow veteran Wp’ writer/instructors Steve Mazur, Jon Bernstein, and Chrysanthy Balis. On the Television side, Phil Kellard will be leading the lecture on “Writing The TV Pilot: Your Must Have Calling Card” along with Richard Manning, David & Julie Chambers, and Joel Thompson. All of whom are also contributing authors of Cut to the Chase and Inside the Room, the two companion books on feature film writing and television writing (respectively) edited by Wp’ Director Linda Venis, who will also be in attendance providing opening remarks for the above-mentioned classes.

The convention will be held Friday, September 5th to Sunday, September 7th, at the Westin LAX Hotel. To get a better understanding of the event, a recap of last year and testimonials are posted online here. In short, if you’re looking get crash courses on the many aspects of the writing craft, to insider tips & tactics for the business side, Story Expo will have something for you. And if you do attend, please stop by our table to say hi!

For more information on Story Expo or to register, visit the website: storyexpo.com/

Jeff Bonnett is the Program Assistant for Screenwriting (Onsite & Online). Contact him at jbonnett@uclaextension.edu or (310) 206-1542.

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