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Posts Tagged ‘scripts’

Authors and piracy: eBooks on the high seas

Posted in Guest Bloggers, Writing, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , on August 16, 2012| 8 Comments »

Okay, today I have been busy finishing my novel, and now I have to go pack for my holiday. So, I’m passing the reigns.

Now, I won’t tell you how I stumbled upon Peter Koevari’s post, Authors and Piracy, eBooks on the high seas,  – but it was funny.  Anyway, I really liked it and wanted to share it with you guys. So, I illegally downloaded it for publication here. Later on I’ll be touring London, selling it on printed flyers for the small fee of 99p. Just to be clear, the author will be receiving none of this fee…. but Shhhh – don’t tell anyone.

I couldn’t think of a better titled that Peter’s, so I stole that too.

Over to you, Peter.

I am going to tackle what I think is a very important topic for Authors and creative artists. I’m going to talk about Johnny Depp piracy!

It’s a funny thing, piracy (aaaarrrg!), as we live in a world where it is very easy for people to jump onto torrent and release sites and download whatever they want, for free. Most people accept that this is the case and at some point in their lives, have likely done it themselves.

What if we got you as a reader, and a room packed full of people and asked the question, “Raise your hand if you have *never* downloaded absolutely anything illegally or broken copyright laws. Never copied a movie in a VCR, photocopied copyrighted material, bought anything pirated, downloaded an image and used it on a blog from google images, or absolutely anything that can be considered a breach of copyright?”

I would be surprised if any hands went up, and I would be floored if a number of hands went up. Do I endorse it? Absolutely not, but you can’t change the world… you can only adapt.

Lady Gaga was quoted to say that she is happy for people to download her songs, as she makes all of her money from touring anyway. This is not such a case for us as authors, is it?

We don’t “go on tour” to sell out tickets to our shows and make a huge packet, do we?

So, why did I bring this topic up in the first place?

Because I googled my book title with a timeframe of the last week, and discovered that my books have been pirated. Was I happy about it? Of course not, although the attention is flattering.

The funny thing about everyone who pirates is, it doesn’t bother them and they have all sorts of justifications for pirating… and that is all well and good, until it’s *their* work that is being pirated. They don’t slave over manuscripts for many years to write a novel, pay editors, cover artists, work every day to promote their novels. No, they enjoy reading the books that other people produce… just like we all do as readers.

After all, pirates are just regular people, but with a different perspective and values. Do I consider them criminals? No. Do I want to run out there and track down everyone who downloaded my book illegally and persecute them? No.

You may be looking at me in shock and horror, but why on earth would I want to ruin someone’s life over copyright laws, for wanting to read my books?

Let us face the reality about the argument of potential sales: It’s flawed.

I put pirates into a few categories:

A) Pirates who NEVER buy what they download

B) Pirates who download to try without paying, and then go ahead to buy what they really like

C) Pirates who buy what they really like, and pirate what else they can, because they can and they may want to look at it later.

D) Pirates who (for whatever their circumstantial reason) cannot afford to buy the things that they want.

E) Pirates who cannot buy what they want, due to restrictions

The pirates who are in category A, will never pay for our books. Are they a lost sale? No. Are we losing money because they download our books? No. Are they still ripping us off as authors? Yes… but what exactly can we really do to change it?

The best we can hope for is that they tell their friends and families about our books (if they enjoy them) and some of them may want to buy them.

Pirates in category B, will try our books without paying for them first. If they like them, they will probably purchase them… but likely not.

Category C is similar, but the stuff they hoard and download will likely never be seen or read, but will definitely be shared.

Category D is a tough one. I mean, at the end of the day… just because we can’t afford to have something, doesn’t give us a justification to take it without paying because we want it. However, people do what they need to do and although we don’t like it, there are some real reasons why people would like to genuinely buy something, but the way they need to purchase it deems it “not viable”. Does it excuse it? No… but we can understand it. We can hope that those readers do help us as authors by spreading the word about books that they like, and when they get into a position that they can afford it, they support us as authors.

Category E concerns me greatly, and the fact that people can’t buy ebooks over the Internet, due to restrictions is just ridiculous. We should all push for any companies who do that, to change.

Whatever category these pirates are in, it does not matter, they are going to do what they do, regardless of what we try to do about it. People who would buy our ebooks and paperbacks will still do so, even if the availability of our books on pirated channels would make them more accessible for free. Not everyone pirates, and lots of people out there like to support authors and keep them writing.

For any pirates out there that think all eBooks should be free, I would like to ask you… would you go to work from 9-5 for no paycheck at the end of the day? I doubt that you would, but if you are happy to work all your life for no money, then you can stand tall with that argument.

For those Pirates that say that Authors are the real pirates for controlling their work and restricting what you can do with it… I really question that. If you buy my paperback, you can sell it, share it, sleep on it, use it as a paperweight, throw it in the air… I really couldn’t care less what you do with it… but I do hope you share it with your family and friends.

eBooks are usually considerably cheaper than paperback editions, and I have not put DRM on my ebooks (Can’t change the kindle Legends 2 edition when purchased from Amazon, they wouldn’t let me undo it). Although I don’t encourage emailing my book to every man and their dog, I see no reason why you couldn’t share the read in the same manner as a paperback.

As for the analogy of people buying ebooks and that they can’t sell it as they would a car, that is an interesting one. There is no real “second hand market” for digital works. Like second hand video game stores, further sales only profit the people trading in them… not the makers of the game. The same applies with eBooks.

Why would someone want to buy a second hand eBook when they can just buy it online themselves? We’re not talking cars worth huge money, are we?

Writing books is hard work and we work for nothing until we make any sales on our books. I am an indie author, what does that mean? We don’t get fat pay cheques from publishers, and we have to pay our own way and promote our own way for my books to be successful. Unlike movie studios, we don’t make millions or hundreds of millions in sales.

As much as the world is what it is for pirates, it is what it is for authors. We write for you, the reader, to enjoy our stories. If we all stopped writing, there would be no more books to read.

Having said all of this, what disappoints me the most… is that if any of these pirates bothered to come to my site and contact me, asking if I can give them my ebooks for free… I would have offered them an honourable deal of giving them my ebooks in return for an honest review. The act of pirating my ebooks is an unnecessary exercise of breaking copyright laws and using torrents or hosting sites.

I would love for pirates to consider buying my books and sharing them with their friends and families, but it is their choice if they wish to support me as an author, or not.

As a result of all of this, I stand by my words and I have put up a page on this very website that clearly offers review copies of my first book, Legends of Marithia: Prophecies Awakening (Uncut and Extended Second edition) to anyone willing to show some class and honour, and review my books for me on Amazon, Goodreads, etc. No need to break laws or illegally distribute my books!

It shows that you respect me as an author, and I will… in turn, respect you as a reviewer and respect your opinion. I don’t care if someone is a pirate or not, the offer is open to you equally.

If you decide to change your approach and buy my books (before or after you have read them, and however you have obtained them. eBook or paperback), then you have my gratitude for supporting me as an author.

Do you have an opinion on this? Have you had this happen to you? Comment and talk about it.

Follow Peter on twitter @Peterkoevari

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Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #36

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on July 24, 2012| 1 Comment »

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION:

Writer’s Digest Thriller Competition

The Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Awards Thriller Category is now open.
Winners will be listed in the May/June 2013 issue of Writer’s Digest.

Deadline:  September 14

Learn more about the Thriller competition

Writer’s Digest Science Fiction Competition

We are now accepting entries in the Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Awards Science Fiction Category. Winners will be listed in the May/June 2013 issue of Writer’s Digest.

Deadline:  September 14

Learn more about the Science Fiction competition

Writer’s Digest Young Adult Fiction Competition

The Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Awards Young Adult Fiction Category is now open. Winners will be listed in the May/June 2013 issue of Writer’s Digest.Deadline:  September 14

Learn more about the Young Adult Fiction competition

Writer’s Digest Romance Competition

We are now accepting entries in the Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Awards Romance Category. Winners will be listed in the May/June 2013 issue of Writer’s Digest.

Deadline:  September 14

Learn more about the Romance competition

Writer’s Digest Crime Competition

The Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Awards Crime Category is now open. Winners will be listed in the May/June 2013 issue of Writer’s Digest.

Deadline:  September 14

Learn more about the Crime writing competition 

Writer’s Digest Horror Competition

The Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Awards Horror Competition is now accepting entries. Winners will be listed in the May/June 2013 issue of Writer’s Digest.

Deadline:  September 14

Learn more about the Horror writing competition

Short Short Story Writing Competition

We are now accepting entries for the Writer’s Digest Short Short Story Writing Competition. The top winner will receive over $3,000 in cash and prizes and a trip to the Writer’s Digest Conference in New York City.  The top 10 winners will also be featured the July/August 2013 issue of Writer’s Digest Magazine.

Entry Deadline: November 15, 2012

Click here to enter the short short story competition

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

**Romance is Hotter in Las Vegas Writing ContestSponsor: Las Vegas Chapter

Fee: $10 LVRWA members; $15 RWA members; $20 non members
Deadline: July 31, 2012
Eligibility: Non-published short story
Entry: All electronic, 4,500 words maximum.
Categories: Romance or Romantic Elements.
Judges; Published/Unpublished.
Final Judge: Laura Bradford, Bradford Literary Agency.
Top Prize: $100.
FMI, visit www.LasVegasRWA.org or contact us at LasVegasRomanceWriters@hotmail.com.

**The 2012 Golden Rose Contest

Sponsor: Rose City Romance Writers
Fee: RCRW members $30, RWA members $35, others $50
Deadline: August 1, 2012
Eligibility: Open to all non-contracted authors of romantic fiction (RWA and non-RWA members) unpublished in book-length (40,000 words or more) in the last three (3) years and any member of RWA who is not eligible to join RWA-PAN. Please see the RWA website regarding PAN eligibility rules.
Entry: Accepting entries up to a maximum of fifty (50) pages including prologue (if any). Your entry may include an optional non-judged two-page synopsis. The synopsis does not count toward the 50-page maximum for the manuscript, however the synopsis cannot exceed two pages even if the manuscript is shorter than 50 pages.
Judges: First round judges are romance writers (trained in judging) with at least one being a published author or RWA-PRO member.
Categories and Final Judges: Contemporary Series Romance – Roberta Brown, Roberta Brown Literary Agency; Contemporary Single Title – Alex Logan, Grand Central Publishing; Historical – Chelsey Emmelhainz, Avon/HarperCollins; Mainstream Novel with Strong Romantic Elements – Sarah E. Younger, Nancy Yost Literary Agency; Paranormal – Nicole Resciniti, The Seymour Agency ; Romantic Suspense – Aubrey Poole, Sourcebooks; Young Adult – Laura Bradford, Bradford Literary Agency.
Top Prize: The first place winner in each category will receive the Golden Rose Award. All other finalists will receive suitable recognition. Results will be published in the RWR.
FMI, visit http://rosecityromancewriters.com/contest-home  or email contestcoordinator@rosecityromancewriters.com.

7th Annual Dixie Kane Memorial Contest

Sponsor: (SOLA) Southern Louisiana RWA
Fee: $15.00
Deadline: August 1, 2012 *deadline extended*
Eligibility: Entrants do not need to be members of RWA to enter.
Entry: First 5 double-spaced pages. Also, one-page, single-spaced synopsis (not judged). No electronic submissions. See website for more information. No staples please, paper clips only.
Categories and Final Readers: Short/Long Series Contemporary, Stacy Holmes, Senior Editor, Yellow Rose Line; Single Title Contemporary, Rhonda Penders, Editor-in-Chief, The Wild Rose Press; Historical Romance, Allison Byers, Editor, Historical Line; Paranormal, CallieLynn Wolfe, Senior Editor, Black Rose Line; Inspirational, Nicola Martinez, Editor in Chief, Pelican Book Group/White Rose Publishing; Novel w/ Strong Romantic Elements, Rhonda Penders, Editor-in-Chief, The Wild Rose Press; Romantic Suspense, Lori Graham, Senior Editor, Crimson Rose; Erotic Romance, Diana Carlile, Senior Editor, Scarlet Rose Line.
Judges: experienced, trained, published/nonpublished.
Final Readers: First place winners in each category receive a guaranteed read by an editor of The Wild Rose Press who will send you a request for a full or partial manuscript, or a rejection.
Top Prize: $50 cash with tiebreaker and special certificate for the overall highest score in all categories. Also, certificates and signature button for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place and honorable mention.
FMI, http://solawriters.org/ or email contest coordinator at ngenovese@gmail.com.

**Show Me the Spark 2012 Contest

Sponsor: Heartland Romance Authors

Fee: $20 RWA Members / $25 Non-RWA Members
Entry Deadline: August 1, 2012
Eligibility requirements: The annual Show Me the Spark! Contest is open to unpublished and published authors of novel-length fiction. The entry must be the author’s original work, unpublished and uncontracted as of the time of the contest deadline. No entry can have been previously published in any format. (on author’s website visible to the public, self-published, ebook, mass market, etc.).
Entry: All electronic. First chapter up to 3,500 words max (actual word count), including prologue, if applicable. *Word count will be verified. No part of a second or any additional chapters will be judged. End your entry on a hook, leaving your judges breathless with no more pages left to turn. Optional 5-page synopsis can be provided, but will not be judged.
Judges: trained/experienced, published.
Final Round Judges: TBA (updated on website).
Categories: Contemporary, Historical, Paranormal, Romantic Suspense, Inspirational, Young Adult, and Erotic Romance. Each category will advance finalists to final round judging.
Top prize: First prize: Engraved Show Me the Spark memento. Second and third prize: certificates.
FMI, www.heartlandromanceauthors.com or email contest@heartlandromanceauthors.com.

**Heartbeat

Sponsor: Heart of Louisiana
Fee: $10.00 for all entrants
Deadline: August 3, 2012 *deadline extended*
Eligibility: Unpublished authors or published authors not contracted for the entry.
Entry: First chapter (up to 4,000 words) and a synopsis (up to 5 pages) of your unpublished romance novel.
Categories: Contemporary (long, short, single title), Inspirational, Historical, Paranormal, Erotic
Judges: Each entry will be read by at least one published author in the preliminary round.
Final Judge: Adam Wilson, Editor, Gallery and Pocket Books.
Top Prize: Manuscript reading by Adam Wilson, Editor, Gallery and Pocket Books.
FMI, www.heartla.com/contest.htm.

**Fiction from the Heartland Contest

Sponsor: Mid-America Romance Authors (MARA)
Fee: $30.00
Deadline: August 10, 2012
Eligibility: unpublished in book-length fiction in the past five years from deadline.
Entry: Prologue/First Chapter/Synopsis (max. 35 pages).
Judges: at least one published author and experienced critiquers.
Final Judges: Final-round judges two publishing professionals.
Top Prize: $50.00 and plaque.
FMI, www.mararwa.com.

2012 Golden Palm Contest

Sponsor: Florida Romance Writers
Fee: $20 for FRW Members, $30 for all others. Contest fee payable by PayPal or check.
Deadline: Midnight, August 15, 2012
Entry: Maximum first 25 pages. Electronic Submission only.
Final judges: Editors/Agents.
FMI, www.frwriters.org.

The Golden Pen

Sponsor: The Golden Network
Fee: $35 per entry received on or before July 15; $40 per entry received on or before August 15; $5 judging discount.
Deadline: Opens June 1, 2012. Early-bird deadline July 15, 2012. All others deadline August 15, 2012.
Eligibility requirements: The Golden Pen Contest is open to writers who have not accepted a publishing offer for a work of original fictional narrative prose of 20,000 words or more by August 15, 2012. Entrant must retain all rights to the entry and not have granted any of them to a publisher or any other party prior to or by August 15, 2012.
Entry: All-electronic. Entry shall include a synopsis (not to exceed fifteen pages) plus the first consecutive pages of the manuscript in one document, together totaling not more than 55 pages. Categories: Series Contemporary, Single Title, Historical, Paranormal, Romantic Suspense, Inspirational, Young Adult, Novel with Strong Romantic Elements.
Judges: In the preliminary round, each entry will be judged by three judges, including at least one Golden Heart finalist and one published author (Golden Heart finalist may also be the published author).
Final Judges: Top editors; details TBD.
Top Prize: $30, certificate, and a golden pen.
FMI, visit http://thegoldennetwork.com or email goldenpencontest@gmail.com.

**2012 Heart to Heart

Sponsor: San Francisco Area RWA
Fee: $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers
Deadline: August 31, 2012
Eligibility: Open to all writers unpublished by an RWA-approved publisher as of the entry deadline. Prospective entrants may be published with a non RWA-recognized publisher. However, they may not enter books/manuscripts that have been professionally edited or have ISBN numbers.
Entry: Enter the scene(s) in which the hero and heroine meet for the first time or for the first time in the book, if previously acquainted, up to a maximum of 15 pages. Each entry may only be entered in one category. However, you may submit as many different entries as you wish. Each new entry must have a contest entry form and payment.
Categories: Contemporary, Erotic, Paranormal, Young Adult, Historical.
Judges: TBA.
Final Judges: TBA.
FMI, http://www.sfarwa.net/contests/heart-to-heart-contest.

*Laurel Wreath Contest for Published Authors

Sponsor: Volusia County Romance Writers
Fee: $20.00
Deadline: August 31, 2012
Eligibility: Books with 2011 copyright
Entry: 3 print copies of book
Categories: Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, Historical, Paranormal, Young Adult, Erotic Romance, Inspirational.
Judges: Booksellers & librarians.
Top Prize: Laurel Wreath engraved pendant.
FMI, contact lauralitak66@gmail.com for more information, or visithttp://www.vcrw.net/index.php/contests.

**Unpublished Beacon Contest

Sponsor: First Coast Romance Writers
Fee: $25 FCRW Member, $30 RWA Member (non-FCRW), $35 Non-RWA Member
Contest opens: August 1, 2012
Deadline: August 31, 2012
Eligibility: Open to all authors of romantic fiction, not contracted/published in book length fiction (40,000+) in the last 3 years.
Entry: All electronic. First 25 pages (including prologue, if applicable), plus up to five-page synopsis (unjudged), in .rtf format. (Combined total not to exceed 30 pages.)
First Round Judges: Trained and published authors
Categories & Final Round Judges:
Historical – Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, & Holly Blanck, St. Martin’s Press.
Single Title – Nalini Akolekar, Spencerhill Associates, & Esi Sogah, Harper Collins.
Contemporary Series – Andrea Somberg, Harvey Klinger Agency, & Susan Litman, Harlequin.
Fantasy/Futuristic/Paranormal – Beth Miller, Writers House, & Jhanteigh Kupihea, NAL.
Romantic Suspense – Weronika Janczuk, Franklin Siegal Associates, & Shana Smith, Harlequin.
Young Adult – Laura Bradford, The Bradford Literary Agency, & Audrey Poole, Sourcebooks.
Erotic Romance – Leis Pederson, Berkley, & Meghan Conrad, Ellora’s Cave.
Inspirational – Mary Sue Seymour, The Seymour Agency, & Lauren Plude, Grand Central Publishing.
Chick Lit/Women’s Fiction/Mainstream – Michelle Grajkowski, 3 Seas Literary Agency, & Rachel Burkot, Harlequin.
Prizes: First place winners receive lapel pin, all finalists receive certificate.
FMI, http://firstcoastromancewriters.com or contact contest chair atbeaconunpub@firstcoastromancewriters.com.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:

(N.B. Only contact the companies listed below between 24th July – 5th August 2012)

SEEKING SCRIPT WRITER FOR FEATURE FILM IN SPANISH AND ENGLISH
Seeking a script writer for a feature film in Spanish and English. You must be fluently bilingual in both and have samples of work in each. This project has a completed treatment and is under a SAG ultra low budget contract. The writer will convert the treatment into a feature film script. There is pay for the project and pay will be made in draws. Serious inquiries only to playworldpictures@gmail.com

LOOKING FOR EMOTIONALLY CHALLENGING SHORT FILM SCRIPT
I’m looking for a SHORT FILM screenplay which features a YOUNG CAST. We’re looking to produce the film in the next few months as a showreel piece to illustrate my work directing teenage actors. We’ll also be submitting the film to festivals. The screenplay should be a short film of under 10 minutes w/ dialogue, feature actors between 13-15 years old, and be emotionally challenging for the cast. I’m an award-winning director of features and commercials. The short film will be produced to the highest possible standards. Casting will be performed by a top casting director. You can see my work at http://www.philm.co.uk/ Be brave. I’d like a script that is challenging and powerful of any genre. Please submit your screenplay or an initial synopsis to the link below or e-mail to phil*at*philmcompany.com. You will obviously be fully credited on the finished film and be involved in the development and production of the film. I look forward to reading them.

LOOKING FOR COMMERCIAL COMEDY WRITERS FOR SPEC SPOT
Hello. I am looking for a comedy writer who is familiar with the 30 sec spot format. I am looking to freshen up my directorial reel and would love some new energy and ideas. I have no budget to pay you from, but this is a great way to see your idea put into a film format. It will make a great portfolio piece for you. Interested parties contact me at lbarcojo1@me.com Thanks!

DOC DIRECTOR/PRODUCER SEEKING SCREENWRITER
Documentary Director/Producer is seeking a writer to help with outline and script for a feature length documentary about the lives of folks with spinal cord injuries. You will be working very closely with the director so being a collaborator and team player is important. Requirements: Must have experience with writing scripts and an interest in the subject and documentary genre; Must be available to get together at least once a week to meet. Please submit to email a cover letter and resume to scidocumentary@gmail.com Those I am interested in will also have to submit samples of their work. Screen credit, IMDb credit, copy, festival exposure, backend points, along with the possibility of getting paid if we get funding. Thanks!

SCREENWRITER WANTED TO COLLABORATE ON NOVEL ADAPTATION
Novelist looking for a screenwriting partner to collaborate on a novel adaptation. The novel, DELIVERED, is available as an eBook on Amazon and iBookstore. In terms of genre, DELIVERED is supernatural fiction, with elements of crime, romance, and self-discovery. Applicants should be interested in one, or more, of these genres. The interested and serious writer should send current résumé and a writing sample in PDF format. The only writing sample accepted will be a screenplay draft adapted from “Warning,” the first chapter of DELIVERED. The text of the chapter can be found through a link on novel’s homepage http://www.delivered-novel.com, or the following link: http://www.delivered-novel.com/DELIVERED/The_Warning_Chapter.html. This an opportunity for a serious, talented, and committed screenwriter looking both to build a body of work and to lend his/her vision to a story with considerable independent/commercial market appeal. Candidates should send résumé and specific writing sample, in PDF format only, to CliffordEvan@delivered-novel.com. Please write NOVEL ADAPTATION in the subject line of the email. For the right collaborator, author will sign a contract giving co-writer second credit, as well as 30-40% of the screenplay rights, upon option or sale. Terms are flexible and subject to negotiation, depending on the work performed.

RICHARD LAMPONE
NY based production company is seeking a short film to produce.
Looking for a family drama under 20 pages with simple locations. and 3-5 characters.
Some Locations available ( Home with numerous bedrooms, bathroom) Yards/outdoor pool/park, ..etc
Send scripts or log lines to OneLastdayproductions@gmail.com
Thank you

LOOKING FOR SITCOM WRITERS
Renaissance Entertainment is a brand new production company that specializes in and promotes the progression of the human spirit through media, specifically through TV and Film production. Formed by a, currently enrolled, student at Columbia College Hollywood we don’t think or act like students. We are looking for sitcom/web series writers for a new show we are currently developing. You must be able and willing to write for an urban sitcom with authentic voices without being stereotypical (think THE GAME and NOAH’S ARC) on a team, as well as, individually and able to understand and translate both creative ideas and notes while also able to give notes and creative ideas. You must also be professional, on-time to meetings and deadline, reliable, able to operate in excellence, and you must live in L.A or surrounding areas and have a reliable car or familiar with public transportation. Please send the following to RenaissancEntertainment@gmail.com: one completed spec script for an already existing sitcom; one original completed (copyrighted &/or WGA registered) script; headshot (pic) and resume. This is NOT a paid gig however when show is picked up compensation will follow. Great opportunity for those wanting to get in on the ground floor of a new sitcom. Apply to Ly Smith

CONFERENCES AND CLASSES:

San Francisco Writers Conference

10th Anniversary in 2013
Join us February 14th – 17th, 2013 and help us celebrate at the Mark Hopkins Hotel, Mason & California, San Francisco!
We are proud to announce bestselling author
R.L. Stine will be our keynote speaker for 2013

 

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests, classes, and conferences before you enter, and to copyright all your work before you submit.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+,Goodreads, Klout, and Linkedin

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Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #35

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 12, 2012| 3 Comments »

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Annual Gival Press Short Story Award
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   8th August 2012
Fees:   $25 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place. Also web and anthology publication.
Details:   For short stories between 5,000 and 15,000 words.
Contact:   Robert L. Giron, Editor, Gival Press Short Stroy Award, Gival Press, LLC, PO Box 3812, Arlington, VA 22203
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.givalpress.com/index.cfm?rsn=209&mn=Contests

British Fantasy Society Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th June 2012
Fees:   £5 for one entry. Members get one entry free.
Prizes:  £100 for first place. £50; £20. Also society membership and magazine publichation.
Details:  For fantastical stories up to 5,000 words, e.g. fantasy, science, science fiction, horror, supernatural, fabulation, magic realism, slipstream, etc.
Country:    United Kingdom
Email:    shortsorycomp@britishfantasysociety.org
Website:   http://www.britishfantasysociety.co.uk/the-bfs-short-story-competition-2012

Tony Hillerman Mystery Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   15th August 2012
Fees:   $20 for one entry
Prizes:   Magazine publication and two tickets to the awards ceremony.
Details:   For short stories up to 2,500 words, set at least in part in New Mexico.
Contact:   Mystery Short Story Contest. New Mexico Magazine, 495 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Country:    United States
Website:  http://www.wordharvest.com/contest.php

Fiction Contest, Tennessee Williams Fest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:  15th November 2012
Fees:   $25 for one entry
Prizes:   $1,500 for first place
Details:   Grand prize: $1,5000; domestic airfare (up to £500) and accommodations to attend the 2013 Festival; VIP Festival Pass; Public reading at the 2013 Festival; Publication in Louisiana Literature. Submit unpublished shot stories up to 7,000 words. For eligibility and full guidelines see website.
Contact:   Fiction Contest TennesseeWilliams/New Orleans Literary Festival 938 Lafayette Street, Suite 514, New Orleans, LA 70113
Country:    United States
Website:  http://www.tennesseewilliams.net/contests

100 Words or Fewer Writing Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   18th July 2012
Fees:   $15 for one entry
Prizes:   $250 for first Place
Details:   For Flash fiction up to 100 words following the prompts on the website
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.100wordsorfewerwritingcontest.com
SCRIPTS Via First WriterOne Act Contest – Tennessee Williams Fest
Category:   Scripts
Closes:   1st November 2012
Fees:   $25 for one entry.
Prizes:  $1,500 for first place.
Details:   Grand Prize: $1,500; Staged reading at the 2013 Festival (March 20-24); Full production at the 2014 Festival; VIP All-Access Festival pass for 2013 and 2014 ($1,000 value); Publication. Submit unpublished, never publicly performed one-act plays up to one hour in length. For eligibility and full guidelines see our contest page.
Contact:   One-Act Contest Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival 938 Lafayette Street, Suite 514 New Orleans, LA 70113
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.tennesseewilliams.net/contests

Trinity College London International Pla
Category:   Scripts
Closes:   7th September 2012
Fees:   Ł10 for one entry. Ł20 entry fee for written feedback.
Prizes:  Ł1,000 for first place. Ł500 prizes will be awarded to up to six Highly Commended entrants.
Details:   Write a one act play for young performers or audiences in English (20-40 minutes duration) and be in with a chance to win a range of prizes including a trip to London to see your play performed and cash prizes of Ł1,000. Categories: Plays for Young Performers; Plays for Teenage Audiences. Entry fee of Ł10 or Ł20 for written feedback. Closing date 7th September 2012. Find out more and enter online on our website.
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.trinitycollege.co.uk/playwriting

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

*2012 Aspen Gold Readers Choice Contest

Sponsor: Heart of Denver Romance Writers
Fee: HODRW members $20, RWA members $25, others $30.
Deadline: June 15, 2012
Eligibility: Participation is open to all published authors of novel- or novella-length romance fiction with an original copyright or first printing date of January 2011 through December 2011.
Entry: 3 copies of book, with an additional 2 copies for finalists. E-pubbed books are eligible, but must submit 3 printed, bound copies.
Categories: Young Adult, Contemporary, Single Title, Historical, Romantic Suspense, Erotica, Paranormal/Time-Travel/Futuristic, and Novella.
Judges: First round judges are romance readers.
Final Judges: Booksellers and Librarians.
Top Prize: The first place winner in each category will receive the Aspen Gold Award. All other finalists will receive suitable recognition. Results will be published in the RWR.
FMI, email Kathy or Grace at AG@hodrw.com with questions or see the website athttp://www.hodrw.com/contests.

*Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award

Sponsor: Ancient City Romance Authors (ACRA)
Fee: $20.00 per entry. Make checks payable to ACRA.
Deadline: Entries must be postmarked by June 15, 2012
Eligibility: Open to RWA members with books having an original copyright date of 2011 or First US Printing date of 2011 from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2011.
Entry: Include 3 signed copies of each entry. (Book length, at least 50K. E-mail books are accepted in bound, hard copy.)
Categories: Contemporary Single Title Romance, Erotic Romance, Historical (includes Regency) Romance, Inspirational/Traditional Romance, Paranormal Romance (includes fantasy, time-travel, futuristic), Romantic Suspense, Short & Long Series Contemporary Romance, and Strong Romantic Elements.
Judges: Judges will be romance readers, including non-RWA members and RWA members.
Final Judges: Booksellers and former editors.
Top Prize: 1st Place winners in each category will receive a trophy, certificate, and a winner’s graphic for their website.
FMI, contact ACRARWA.com. E-mail reallychristy@gmail.com, VLWKing@aol.com, orDJWilson77@aol.com for additional questions not found on the website.

19th Annual Ignite the Flame Contest

Sponsor: Central Ohio Fictional Writers (COFW)
Fee: $25–30.00
Deadline: June 15, 2012 *deadline extended!*
Entry: Hero and heroine’s first meeting (15 pgs. max): a one-page optional setup is not judged.
Eligibility: Authors unpublished in book-length fiction.
Judges: Published authors and RWA-PRO.
Categories and Final Judges: Romantic Suspense – Laura Bradford, Bradford Literary Agency; Historical Romance – Deb Werksman, Sourcebooks; Category-Length Contemporary – Rhonda Penders, Wild Rose Press; Young Adult – Andrea Somberg, Harvey Klinger, Inc.; Single Title – Katherine Pelz, Berkley Publishing Group; Erotic Romance – Alicia Rasley, Red Sage; Paranormal Romance – Lindsey Faber, Samhain Publishing.
Top Prize: $30 to first place in each category.
FMI, ITFcontest@gmail.com.

**Minuet of Love Romance Novella Contest

Sponsor: Music City Romance Writers
Fee: $15.00
Deadline: June 15, 2012 *deadline extended!*
Eligibility: Open to both unpublished and published authors, but novella entered must be unpublished.
Entry: Romance novellas (15-40K) with HEA or HFN ending. All electronic. First 10 pages, 250 word query/synopsis OPTIONAL (unjudged) in .doc format; all heat levels accepted.
Categories: Contemporary, Historical, Paranormal.
Judges: Published/trained unpublished authors.
Final Judges: Contemporary, Deborah Nemeth (Carina Press); Historical, Linda Ingmanson (Samhain Publishing); Paranormal, Adrien Luc-Sanders (Entangled Publishing).
Top Prize: $25 in each category, certificate, announcement in RWR.
FMI, visit www.mcrw.com or email contest coordinators at novella@mcrw.com.

*2012 Golden Leaf Contest

Sponsor: New Jersey Romance Writers
Fee: $15–25.00
Deadline: June 20, 2012
Entry: Four new autographed books with a first copyright date or first North American printing date between July 2011 and June 2012. Open to RWA Region 1 and NJRW members published in novel-length romance.
Judges: Booksellers, librarians, readers groups, romance readers.
FMI, visit http://www.njromancewriters.org/ or email contest coordinators atGoldenLeaf@njromancewriters.org.

*The 2012 Published Beacon Contest

Sponsor: First Coast Romance Writers
Fee: $25.00
Deadline: Entries must be postmarked by June 30, 2011.
Entry: Books with a 2011 copyright date.
Judges: Readers.
FMI, www.firstcoastromancewriters.com or Beaconpub@firstcoastromancewriters.com.

**The Rebecca, for unpublished manuscripts

Sponsor: Land of Enchantment Romance Authors
Fee: $20 (LERA members) or $25 (non-members)
Deadline: June 30, 2012
Eligibility: Manuscripts not accepted for publication at the time of submission.
Entry: Opening five thousand (5,000) words of romance works, electronic or hard copy.
Categories and Final Judges: Contemporary Romance – Deb Nemeth, Carina Press; Young Adult Romance – Holly Blanck, St. Martin’s; Category Romance – Allison Lyons, Harlequin; Historical Romance – Suzie Townsend, Nancy Coffee Literary; Paranormal/Science Fiction/Urban Fantasy – Adam Wilson, Pocket Books.
FMI, http://leranm.com/.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:

(N.B. Only contact the companies listed below between 11th June – 25th June 2012)

SEEKING COLLABORATOR FOR SCI-FI BOOK-TO-SCREENPLAY ADAPTATION
I am interested in finding a screenwriter who would be willing to collaborate with me on writing a screenplay for my sci-fi story “Spaceship Earth.” Published by Reagent Press it is now available in ebook form (Amazon, Kindle.) I wrote this story for middle school/high school students and young adults to address, in part, the concepts of evolution and creationism. This story deals with the creation of the universe and the cyclic “Big Bang” theory. It takes readers through one cycle, covering a period of approximately 70 billion years. I would like to send interested/qualified writers a complimentary ebook copy for consideration. Send inquiries to me, Tom Schwartz, at thomasschwartz@bellsouth.net

SEEKING SHORT ON THEMES OF FREEDOM AND LIBERTY
Assembly Line Entertainment is close with a grant that promotes freedom and liberty. The grant ranges from $5,000 – $20,000 and we plan on working with a short film. We’re looking for a short screenplay that has these themes. The screenplay should be no more than 20 pages. Please send an email with the following guidelines. SUBJECT: TITLE OF YOUR SCREENPLAY. BODY: LOGLINE OF YOUR SCREENPLAY. A little bit about yourself. ATTACHMENTS: Attach your resume and screenplay in a PDF format. Send to : jambros@assemblylineentertainment.com

FILM CO SEEKS SCREENWRITER FOR REWRITES/FINAL POLISH
Award-winning film company Judith Studios is currently looking for a professional screenwriter to assist with rewrites/finalizing the screenplay on our next full length feature film. Need to start ASAP as we have already begun production. Salary negotiable. Please contact cpanton@judithstudios.com or christopher.panton@yahoo.com

PROD CO SEEKS SCREENWRITER
Here at Gorilla Productions, we’re looking to meet a talented scriptwriter to collaborate with our team of dynamic young filmmakers on a film project. We strongly encourage young talented writers to apply. While experience is desirable, what we’re really looking for is talent and enthusiasm. If you’re interested, please get in touch with a sample of your work. Apply to: Makez Rikweda thru info@gorilla-productions.com

The ArtHouse Theatre Company
We are looking for writers who have a script ready to have a staged read-through for our week-long artists event in July. We are looking for a diversity of styles, and specifically something that can be done in 15-90mins. If you have a couple of short scripts, we are open to doing a series. We have lights, sound, a stage, and (if need be) we can even get you a read-through cast. All we need is you and your art.
Just email your name, contact email, and samples to artists@arthousetheatre.org, or follow our link to fill out the form:
http://www.arthousetheatre.org/Artist~App.html
Please indicate in your message if you have performers to read your work, number of characters, and estimated time length.
There is no pay, but every artist who shares their work will be granted access to the entire week, including ticketed shows. We are a 501(c)3 and donation of service is available.

TWO TO THREE LOCATION NO BUDGET SHORT OR FEATURE SCRIPT NEEDED
I currently have access to about 3 two-bedroom family apartments, small park, and a few exterior spots and am looking for a script for two to three apartment location shoot. This could also include some exteriors like an alley, street, small park et al as long it wouldn’t require permit to acquire. Short or feature are welcome. Genre: High Drama, Suspense, Thriller, Action. No horror or sci-fi. “Holistic” approach is a plus. It’s a non paying gig but writing and AP credit will be received. This will be an independent, no-budget production. It should be an original story with unexpected twists, and an important message, No cliche! no period pieces, no pets, no kids, no SFX or elaborate makeup jobs, no elaborate props or set pieces, no stunts or dangerous actions, 4-7 cast, no script that requires a lot of background, no car chases, no elaborate gore effects. It should have witty, snappy, awesome dialogue and intriguing story line. Contact theatrexm@gmail.com

SEEKING SEASONED WRITER FOR COLLABORATION ON TV SERIES
Looking for seasoned writer for a possibile television series entitled, “Texas Heat”. Think of Friday Night Lights, but with baseball. Send inquiries to me at davidkouri@gmail.com

SCREENWRITER NEEDED FOR ACTION WEB SERIES
I am looking for a screenwriter for an action web series pilot. It’s an international action concept with lots of stunts. We will probably shoot internationally. It’s a very exciting concept. If interested please send a clear, short bio to me at christianray@hollywoodworld.org If invited to talk in more detail you need to be willing to sign an NDA. This is a paid gig, but you would need to be willing to submit an unpaid spec of how you would approach the story. Thank you for your consideration. Christian Ray Flores, Executive Producer, Hollywood World Studios.

CONFERENCES AND CLASSES:

 WANA International Classes:

Demystifying Triberr

Instructor: Jenny Hansen
When: Yahoo loop opens June 13th, 1 hour webinar on June 14th, 12:30-1:30 pm EST, course runs 1 week
Where: Online Webinar + Coaching via email and within Triberr
Description: Is Triberr a mystery to you? This class is for people who would like to harness the power of Triberr and just feel like they’re missing the boat. Triberr is a powerful tool to help you manage social media in a meaningful way. We don’t need to resort to automation or spamming people to create connections in a time-effective way and Triberr is the best tool for the job! Take back your creative space!

Session 1: Join Jenny for an hour-long webinar to learn how to navigate quickly in Triberr and become comfortable with the basic functionality. Settings, Tribal Stream and getting help will be covered.

Session 2: Join Jenny in a Triberr group and on a Yahoo loop for a week of hands-on coaching and training. This real world practice gives you the advantage of a ready-made tribe, plus the ground rules for how to use Triberr responsibly. Increase your blog traffic and have a great time doing it.

Note: A second 1-hour webinar may be held for class participants at the end of this week if there is a need for more live coaching.

Dialogue Only Your Character Would Say

Instructor: Donna Newton
When: 1 session, Saturday June 30, 3-5 pm GMT
Where: Online Webinar
Description: Dialogue can be tricky. After all, not everything we say in “real life” works on a page. In fact, does it need to be said at all? Doesn’t our body language speak for us? During this course we will cover the common mistakes writers make when using dialogue, and how to effectively propel our characters into the hearts of the reader.

In this class we will discuss the six functions of dialogue, the rules when writing dialogue, when to use interior monologues, how to avoid obvious dialogue, dialogue do’s and don’ts, dashes vs ellipses…. and much more.

Writing for Television for the YouTube Generation

Instructor: Rachel Funk Heller
When: June 27, 8-9 pm EST
Where: Online Webinar
Description:

Why do news anchor people speak the way they do? Want to know how to write voice-over copy like the pros, but don’t have time to get a degree in Journalism? Not to worry. In this class, you’ll learn all the tricks of the trade. This class will teach you how to produce a professional-grade video (to promote your book or your business), and also how to add new content to your blog or webpage. You’ll learn the difference between “writing for the eye” and “writing for the ear” as well as how the proper script format to use for your project. After the session, you’re invited to submit samples of your scripts for feedback and helpful suggestions to take your career to the next level.

Free 30 minute consult on your video script idea for the first 15 students who sign up!

Where Do I Begin?

Instructor: Shirley Jump
When: June 25, 7-8 pm CST
Where: Online Webinar
Description: How do you know if you have enough of an idea for a whole book? Where do you start your story? Join Shirley Jump for an interactive workshop that teaches you how to take a germ of an idea and turn it into a story, covering the basics of goal, motivation and conflict. By the end of this class, you’ll have started Once Upon a Time and be on your way to The End!
Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests, classes, and conferences before you enter, and to copyright all your work before you submit.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Goodreads, Klout, and Linkedin

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Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #34

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on May 10, 2012| 2 Comments »

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Playingbingo Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   28th February 2013
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £300 for first place. Second prize £100, and two runner’s up prizes of £50.
Details:   A short story competition on the theme of bingo, 1,500-3,000 words.
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://playingbingo.co.uk/competitions-prizes/short-story/index.php

Winchester Writers’ Conf. Short Story
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   25th May 2012
Fees:   £9 for one entry. £7 if attending conference.
Prizes:   £100 for first place. Also £150 fiction workshop voucher.
Details:   For short stories on any theme or subject, between 1,500 and 3,000 words. No children’s stories.
Contact:   Writing Competitions, c/o Barbara Large, Winchester Writers’ Conference, The University of Winchester, Winchester, Hants SO22 4NR
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   Sara.Gangai@winchester.ac.uk
Website:   http://www.writersconference.co.uk/competition.htm

Two Ways Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   $0 for one entry.
Prizes:   $50 for first place. $25 for second place.
Details:   To enter, write a piece of prose and poetry on any theme. The pieces can be integrated or separate, but must present the same essential story. Entries must be 2500 words or fewer. Contest deadline May 31, 2012. E-mail entries will not be accepted. For full rules, see attached URL.
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.scribophile.com/contests/two-ways-contest/

Wordstock Ten Short Fiction Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st July 2012
Fees:   $30 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place.
Details:   For short stories and comics of any genre, between 1,500 and 3,000 words. Enter online.
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.wordstockfestival.com/get-involved/short-fiction-competition/

Reflection
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th May 2012
Fees:   €0 for one entry. No fees
Prizes:   €0 for first place. All successful applicants will receive a free copy of the printed magazine.
Details:   Submit your work to be featured on the blog with a chance to be published in our monthly magazine. We are looking for creative people with a vision and voice to share their opinions, work and stories not for a pay check but for the love of creating. This months issue theme is REFLECTION – PEILIKUVA Deadline is Midnight Finnish Time, May 30th 2012.
Contact:   submission@hesainprint.com
Country:   Finland
Email:   info@hesainprint.com
Website:   http://www.hesainprint.com

Katherine Paterson Prize
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th June 2012
Fees:   $20 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place. $100 x 3. Also publication.
Details:   For Young Adult and Children’s Literature up to 10,000 words. May be a novel excerpt, but if so should stand alone.
Contact:  KPP, Hunger Mountain, Vermont College of Fine Arts, 36 College Street, Montpelier, VT 05602
Country:   United States
Email:   hungermtn@vcfa.edu
Website:   http://www.hungermtn.org/katherine-paterson-prize-for-young-adult-and-childrens-writing/

Short Story of the Month Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   25th May 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. Publication in The New Short Story Annual 2013
Details:   Submissions are welcome on any subject (up to 2,000 words). The winning entry will be displayed on the website. The winning entry and strongest contenders will be published in The New Short Story Annual 2013 at the end of the year.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   hayleysherman.editor@gmail.com
Website:   http://www.hayley-sherman.co.uk

The Flaneur short story contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   $20 for one entry.
Prizes:   Ł0 for first place. Half of the entry fees will be given as a prize.
Details:   Short stories of up to 6000 words on the theme of Urban Shorts. Selected stories will be published in our ebook anthology and the winner will receive a cash prize.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   contest@flaneur.me.uk
Website:   http://flaneur.me.uk/04/call-for-urban-short-stories-for-flaneur-ebook/

Howard Frank Mosher Short Fiction Prize
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th June 2012
Fees:   $20 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place. $100 x 2. Also publication.
Details:   For original, unpublished stories under 10,000 words.
Contact:   HFMSFP, Hunger Mountain, Vermont College of Fine Arts, 36 College Street, Montpelier, VT 05602
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.hungermtn.org/short-fiction-prize/

Multi-Story Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th June 2012
Fees:   £5 for one entry. £8 for two entries.
Prizes:   £500 for first place. 2nd prize £100 3rd prize £50.
Details:   Open-themed story of no more than 2500 words.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   info@multi-story.co.uk
Website:   http://www.multi-story.co.uk

SCRIPTS Via First Writer

Screenwriting Goldmine
Category:   Scripts
Closes:   12th July 2012
Fees:   Ł24 for one entry. Deadlines: 7th June, 5th Jul, 12th Jul.
Prizes:   Ł500 for first place. Many prizes, including meetings with industry judges.
Details:   This is a major new British screenwriting contest, with a serious ambition to find good new writers. Highly influential judging panel of industry leaders. The entry fees have been kept as low as possible, and there is an excellent selection of prizes, including script meetings with some of those judges. Early bird submission date: Thurs 7th June, final submissions by Thurs 12th July.
Contact:   Screenwriting Goldmine Competition, Tradejammer Ltd, 63 Lansdowne Place, Hove, BN3 1FL
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   info@screenwritinggoldmine.com
Website:   http://awards.screenwritinggoldmine.com

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

**2012 Molly and Unsinkable Heroine Contest
Sponsor: Heart of Denver Romance Writers
Fee: HODRW member $25, RWA member $30, others $40.
Deadline: Early bird deadline May 1, 2012; final deadline May 25, 2012
Eligibility: Participation is open to all unpublished authors of novel-length romance fiction and those who have not published within three years prior to contest deadline. Non-winning entries are eligible for reentry.
Entry: Electronic entries only; see website for instructions.
Categories: Young Adult, Contemporary, Single Title, Historical, Romantic Suspense, Paranormal/Time-Travel/Futuristic
Judges: First round judges are romance writers. Second round judges are published authors.
Final Judges: See website for final judge editors and agents.
Top Prize: The first place winner in each category will receive the Molly Award. All other finalists will receive suitable recognition. Results will be published in the RWR.
FMI: email Mollycoordinator@hodrw.com with questions or see the website at http://www.hodrw.com/contests.

2012 Emerald City Opener
Sponsor: Greater Seattle Romance Writers of America
Fee: $12 for members, $20 for nonmembers
Deadline: May 31, 2012
Eligibility: Unpublished writers.
Entry: Your novel’s opening hook – The Opener – is what attracts an editor or agent. Polish the first seven pages of your manuscript and enter the Emerald City Opener Contest, sponsored by the Greater Seattle Chapter of RWA. Electronic submittal.
Categories and Final Judges: Category (Series) Romance – Kelli Martin, Amazon/Montlake; Contemporary – Liz Pelletier, Entangled Publishing; Historical – Amanda Bergeron, Avon Books; Paranormal – Carrie Jackson, Ellora’s Cave; Romantic Elements – Holly Root, Waxman Agency; Romantic Suspense – Alexandra Machinist, Janklow & Nesbit Associates; Young Adult – Nicole Resciniti, The Seymour Agency.
First Round Judges: PROs, Published Authors.
Top Prize: Finalists receive a private pitch with their editor or agent of choice if attending Emerald City Writer’s Conference on October 26–28. Top prize in each category is $25.
FMI, www.gsrwa.org.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:
(N.B. Only contact the companies listed below between 10th May– 25th May 2012)

LOOKING FOR STORY-ORIENTED SHORT SCRIPTS
We are looking for good, story-oriented short film scripts that we can make into actual film(s). Please note: we are not capable yet of making any lavish fantasy or historical/period productions, our resources are privately funded and limited, therefore we are only interested in scripts that are set in more-less modern times and don’t call for much of CGI use (preferably no CGIs at all.) Please submit your actual scripts instead of pitches and loglines and use any common text-searchable format. Send to scripts@888productions.org Thank you.

SEEKING WRITER(S) FOR VARIOUS PROJECTS
Films4Net is an independent production company based in London. We are currently looking for writers, or even a writer, for the following: 1.) A completed short film script, to be filmed in June, willing to consider any genre. 2.) A science fiction short film competition in July, this will be a collaborative work between the writer, director and producer over a 48 hour period of pretty frantic filming. 3.) Submissions for music video ideas for various rock, hip hop and club acts. We are ideally looking for someone London-based, or someone who has the means and will to travel to London for production meetings and shoot days. Apply to: Johnny Michaels at info@films4net.co.uk

SEEKING COMEDY WRITERS TO WORK ON SERIES
Production company looking for comedy writers to work on a series. The series, House of Blue, is in production. It is about a family that love each other, but have many issues still to resolve. Please submit spec scripts or any other writing. Include resume detailing previous work. You will be contacted for further information after your scripts are reviewed. Email: wrcproductions@gmail.com Miguel Cedillo, Weras Entertainment.

SEEKING WRITER FOR DOC/NON-FICTION TELEVISION PROGRAMMING
Local production company responsible for nationally televised network documentary/non-fiction programming looking for talented, passionate writers. Experience working in television industry (television, not “video production”) a plus; experience writing long format segments even better. Most important is a desire to tell a great story, understanding of how to put one together, and the willingness to learn our style. General work habits must include attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines, easy to work with in a team setting, and passionate about the craft of writing film/television. Please email, including short cover letter (in the body of the email) and resume (as attached DOC/PDF). Emails not submitted correctly or with grammatical errors will not be considered. Examples of work are encouraged, just not too many please! PLEASE NOTE: You MUST be local to the greater Seattle area. Apply to: Hiring Manager, schuyler@psgfilms.com

WINE SAVVY COMIC SHORT SCRIPT WRITER NEEDED
Looking for three or four 7-10min scripts for a webisode. Must be wine savvy and/or be a wine trivia geek. Shooting will begin asap. Please email me for details if you are interested. This is an eposodic comedy mainly for entertainment with a flair of wine knowledge. Please email me at gibsonnyc@gmail.com for more details if you are interested. This is a no pay gig for now. We welcome you to join us and see where we can pitch it later.

SCREENWRITER/SCRIPT WANTED
An upcoming director looking for screenwriters who have great no budget scripts which they intend to see on screen produced. Please submit resumes, synopsis and sample scenes of the script to Sam at worleex@gmail.com

ANIMATION STUDIO SEEKS WRITER FOR KIDS TV SHOW
We are producing 4 short episodes (est. 11-minutes) for Spanish television; it’s a kids TV show. We already have the characters. We do great CG work, we’d just like someone who has a knack for writing children’s television, and preferably who has some experience writing for a Spanish audience. Bilingual is a huge plus. These few will be done on spec but once the show goes to series there are huge opportunities for growth with the show. Apply to: Stephen Steelman. Salary: DOE.

SEEKING LIMITED-LOCATIONS COMEDY OR DRAMA SHORT
Seeking a script, preferably comedic, that is 3-6 minutes long and won’t require a bunch of expensive locations. This is technically for film school, but can also be used for festival submissions as well as shown online on sites like vimeo, Funny or Die, etc. Comedy or drama only. No horror, no action. I want great dialogue, and funny would be best. You will get a copy of the film (which will be shot on a Canon 5D) and credited but NO PAY. I’m opening this up to writers who want their content produced as I am still learning screenwriting and would prefer to polish my scripts vs rush shooting them. So if you have a short sketch you want produced, great! The film must stand alone and again be 3-6 minutes in length. Obviously the less actors needed the better as far as keeping my craft services budget low. To submit, please send your script to Joanna deMoyer at joannademoyer@gmail.com It MUST be properly formatted as a screenplay. I have Celtx but not final draft on my computer so please send as a PDF or Celtx file. If you don’t hear from me, you may assume I am NOT using your script. I will contact the top 3 submissions to meet for coffee and discuss your vision as a writer as well as send you a link to my previous film so you can see the production values already established with this creative team. If you wish to do more on this project besides the script (such as crew, editing, acting, etc) please say so in your submission. This will be produced as a SAG new media short film. Casting Producer: Joanna de Moyer. Directed by: Deborah Rombaut. DP: Ira Edelman

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests, classes, and conferences before you enter, and to copyright all your work before you submit.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Linkedin

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Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #33

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 25, 2012| 1 Comment »

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Machigonne Fiction Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   18th June 2012
Fees:   $15 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place.
Details:   For fiction up to 7,500 words.
Contact:   THE NEW GUARD, P.O. Box 10612, Portland, ME 04104
Country:   United States
Website:   http://newguardreview.com

HGWells Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   22nd July 2012
Fees:   Donation of £5 per adult entry. Free for under 26 year olds.
Prizes:   £1,000 for first place. The shortlisted stories will be published on an anthology.
Details:   Junior Prize £1000 winner entry for authors under 26 y.o. Senior Prize £250 winner entry for authors aged 26 y.o. and over. Theme The Sea. Min 2000 Max 5000 words. Handwriting is not compulsory but the judges will award 10% of the marks for good handwriting. UK residents only.
Contact:   HGWells Short Story Competition on 01303264749, 2 Pelham Gardens Folkestone CT20 2LE
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   rose.unsworth@gmail.com
Website:   http://www.wellsfestival.com

Prolitzer Prize 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st October 2012
Fees:   £4 for one entry. £3 per subsequent entry
Prizes:   £130 for first place. Publication in magazine. 2 x runner up prizes, £30
Details:   We are looking for prose writing, fiction or creative nonfiction, that epitomises the editorial aims of the magazine: to publish quality, accessible writing that challenges, engages and entertains. Word length up to 2000 words. The magazien is an international competition. Full details on our website.
Contact:   Prolebook 15 Maes-y-Dre Abergele Conwy LL22 7HW
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   prosecompetition@prolebooks.co.uk
Website:   http://www.prolebooks.co.uk/page8.html

Meridian Writing Summer Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th June 2012
Fees:   £5 for one entry. £3 for a basic critique
Prizes:   £100 for first place. 2nd Place – £50, 3rd Place – £25, plus firstwriter.com voucher
Details:   Summer Short Story Competiton Story: Open Theme/Genre, 3000 words max. Eligibility: Open to new and published authors, see website for full details. Non-competition Critique service available
Contact:   19 Juniper Drive, Weston Turville, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 5WW
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   info@meridian-writing.co.uk
Website:   http://www.meridian-writing.co.uk

Swanwick Writing for Children Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th April 2012
Fees:   £5 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. Week at writers’ summer school plus publication; critique; magazine subscription.
Details:For short stories up to 1,000 words or the first 1,000 words of a novel aimed at children, on the theme: A sense of duty.
Contact:Elizabeth Kay, Warners Group Publications, Fifth Floor, 31-32 Park Row, Leeds, LS1 5JD
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.swanwickwritersschool.co.uk/dynamic/documents/2012%20competition%20details.pdf

Seán Ó Faoláin Short Story Competition 
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st July 2012
Fees:   €15 for one entry.
Prizes:   €2,000 for first place. Also, a week in Writers’ Retreat, plus publication in Journal.
Details:   This annual competition is open to original, unpublished and unbroadcast short stories in the English language of 3,000 words or fewer. The story can be on any subject, in any style, by a writer of any nationality, living anywhere in the world.
Contact:   Munster Literature Centre, 84 Douglas Street, Cork
Country:   Ireland
Email:   info@munsterlit.ie
Website:   http://www.munsterlit.ie/SOF%20Page.html

100 Euro to spend on your summer hols
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   15th June 2012
Fees:   €5 for one entry.
Prizes:   €100 for first place.
Details:   And all you have to do is win our next short story competition. Entry is just EUR5 and the closing date is midnight on June 15th. Maximum story length is 1500 words. Theme – anything you like, so long as it makes us laugh. Visit our website for the full list of rules and regs, and to read the winning entries and runners-up from the first five competitions.
Country:   Portugal
Email:   enquiries@cheerreader.co.uk
Website:   http://www.cheerreader.co.uk

Salamander Fiction Prize 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   15th June 2012
Fees:   $15 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,500 for first place. Also publication.
Details:   For short stories up to 35 double spaced pages.
Contact:   Salamander, Suffolk University, English Department, 41 Temple Street, Boston, MA 02114
Country:   United States
Website:   http://salamandermag.org/contests/

PrintExpress.co.uk are running a competition for kids aged 13 and under. If you’re a keen short story writer, we want to hear from you – and you could win £150 in Amazon vouchers!

To enter, email us at shortstory@printexpress.co.uk with your short story (maximum of 500 words) on any topic that you’d like. The more creative, interesting, exciting & fun your story – the better!
– No entry fee
– Open to those aged 13 or under
– Maximum of 500 words
– Deadline to enter is 30th June, 2012
– Only one entry per person
– When applying, include your age
– We’d like to publish the winner’s story on our blog, but you keep the rights to it.
The full details are here: http://www.printexpress.co.uk/blog/2012/04/16/print-express-childrens-story-competition

SCRIPTS

The Industry Insider Screenwriting Contest

Think you can turn this logline from Randall Wallace, Oscar-Nominated Screenwriter for Braveheart, and Writer/Director of The Man in the Iron Mask and We Were Soldiers into a killer script?

A soldier returns from an 18-month deployment and finds that the family home is missing – even the address no longer exists.

Working from this A-list logline, you’re challenged to create up to the first 15 pages of an original script based on the given concept. Make it your own – drama, action, sci-fi… anywhere your imagination takes you.

But it doesn’t stop there. The Industry Insider Screenwriting Contest goes much further than your average competition, by providing the top 10 finalists with mentors to guide them through the entire script creation process, with the goal of completing a spec screenplay to be judged by a panel of Hollywood power players.

Here’s how it works:

  • Entrants write up to the first 15 pages of a script based on the logline above, provided by Randall Wallace
  • The top 10 finalists are chosen from the submissions, and receive a personalized letter of congratulations from Randall Wallace
  • Each of the 10 finalists receives a copy of Movie Magic Screenwriter to professionally format their work as they enter into a 12-week Story Specialists mentoring program, consisting of feedback for every 10 pages submitted, with the goal of completing a spec screenplay based on the given logline
  • After the mentoring, the finalists submit their rough drafts to our professional script readers for comprehensive Development Notes, and then have two weeks to work with their mentor and notes to complete the final draft of their screenplay for judging.
  • Randall Wallace and production company Benderspink judge the completed screenplays and choose a winner

The lucky winner of this scriptwriting contest receives a classic Industry experience, including transportation to Los Angeles and:

Lush Accommodations at the Chateau Marmont

Chateau Marmont

The chic Chateau, conveniently nestled right off the Sunset Strip, will serve as the home base for the Industry Insider Screenwriting Contest winner. Thinking of the many opportunities to network and hobnob with the Hollywood elite that frequent this hotspot is mind-boggling!

The IvyOne-on-One with Randall Wallace at The Ivy
First on the agenda? Lunch with screenwriter Randall Wallace at Robertson Blvd.’s uber-popular bistro, known for its steady stream of celebs and location near power-agency ICM. The winner will take in some serious knowledge and know-how from Wallace, while filling up on the Ivy’s famous nouvelle American cuisine.

Benderspink

Meeting with Benderspink
The Hollywood treatment continues through a conference with Benderspink, a diversified management/production company with credits including The Hangover, American Pie, and The Ring. Aspiring screenwriters dream of this kind of opportunity to meet with such an influential group, a fantasy that will come true for the lucky winner!

Movie Magic Screenwriter – Professional Formatting Software
Format your script and outline it, too, with the newly redesigned Movie Magic Screenwriter 6! This award-winning screenwriting software formats movies, television, novels, stage plays and even comic book scripts, making it the only program for all types of creative writing.

The Industry Insider Screenwriting Contest can give you the tools and the resources you need to complete a saleable screenplay. But besides the experience and the mentoring you could receive, placing in this competition shows that you can take another’s idea and turn it into a winning script – a trait that’s truly valued in Hollywood, and serves as a priceless addition to your screenwriting resume.

Fees, Dates and Deadlines:

  • Contest Begins: February 2012
  • Early Submission Fee and Deadline: $40 to enter before March 31, 2012
  • Standard Submission Fee and Deadline: $50 to enter between April 1 – May 15, 2012
  • Contest Deadline: May 15, 2012
  • Finalists Announced: Early June 2012
  • Mentor Program Begins: June 2012
  • Mentor Program Completes: Early September 2012
  • Winner Announced: Late September 2012
  • Lunch with Randall Wallace & Meetings: October 2012

Looking for the regulations and answers to specific questions? Check out the Industry Insider Screenwriting Contest’s Rules and FAQs

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

Charter Oak in Excellence in Writing Award
Sponsor: Charter Oak Romance Writers, Connecticut
Fee: $20 CORW/CTRWA/CoLoNY; Others $25
Deadline: May 20, 2012
Eligibility: for unpublished and non-PAN eligible authors.
Entry: First 20 pages; may also include 3 pages synopsis not to be judged.
Categories: Paranormal, Historical, Contemporary, Mainstream, YA.
Judges: Three qualified judges per entry (trained and/or published authors).
Final Judges: Deborah Smith/Bell Bridge Books, Contemporay; Mandy Hubbard/D4EO Literary Agency, YA. Others TBA.
FMI, http://www.charteroakromancewriters.org/.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:
(N.B. Only contact the companies listed below between 17th April – 2nd May2012)

SEEKING CO-WRITER TO FINISH WEB SITCOM SCRIPTS
Looking for a co-writer to help polish off six scripts for my new comedy web series. Currently the first episode is being funded through Kickstarter, however there is recent interest from JB Smoove (Curb Your Enthusiasm) and his manager Rick Dorfman to get behind this project. They’d like me to send them the scripts in the next couple of days and to be honest I’ve been caught off guard with this interest. The scripts are finished, but I feel they could use one more rewrite before I’d feel comfortable sending them off. Payment and terms to be negotiated. Please only respond if this is something you can tackle immediately. You can check out the project here: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/retrofilmsent/manuel-labour-trash-collecting-junk. Apply to: Ryan Noel at info@retrofilmsentertainment.com

TRANSLATE SCRIPT FROM ARGENTINIAN SPANISH TO AMERICAN ENGLISH
Looking for a fun, amiable writer to translate a movie script (approx 100 pages) that’s in Argentinian Spanish to American English. Please have screenwriting know-how (but I will be training you with my own methods and requirements).  This is a very important opportunity for the right person since I am a Gatekeeper, Mentor, Manager & Muse in Hollywood.  Please give details on what you bring to the table and what you expect to be paid.  Anyone can submit, but being in Los Angeles is ideal. Send inquiries to info@TheBitchWithTheRedPen.com

WOMEN OF COLOR WRITERS 
Please only apply if you have read this posting. Generic cover letters will not be read. I’m developing a comedic web series about an up and coming feminist group in New York. The web series is a narrative about the formation of this group, and the struggles to make it racially, sexually, and economically diverse. The film has three main characters, two of whom are women of color. The project is highly ambitious. It’s got the raciness of shows like Sex in the City, but it really aims to show the side of women that we don’t often talk about: the fact that they are powerful beings that can change the world. In doing this, I want to explore what it means to be a woman, and to do this I feel that it is necessary to have a diverse group of women on the writing crew. More about the creator: I have just released my web series, and have written and directed 5 films before that. I am a feminist who is really interested in gender, race, and class. I’m also an aspiring history buff (well, someday), comedy writer, and social media guru. This show is very important to me as not only do I want to change the way that women are represented in media, I also wish to really hone in on what a better world would look like for all women. I’m looking for writers who want to do the same. A plus if you are also an actress. More Info: Http://lessonsfrommyearlytwenties.com Send inquiries to alexmac84@gmail.com

SEEKING SKETCH COMEDY WRITER
I am in need of a sketch comedy writer. I would like to use someone for my talk variety show which will be a great way for improv and sketch comedy writer to get loads of practice and have their work acted out. Unfortunately, I am unable to pay at this time but you will get writer credit. If you are interested, send inquires to colorofloveproduction@gmail.com P.S. Blue Material and Dark Humor is welcomed.

SEEKING SHORT FILM SCRIPTS 
We have a start-up cinema production company and are looking to add to our arsenal with some short films (under 10 minutes) that can be filmed in one day, preferably one location (or minimal number of locations) for about $1,500 (mostly toward gear rental, craft services, crew, cast…in that order, which we will provide). Any genre works. Looking to lock principal photography the last week of April. The kicker: it has to have as its lead a mid- to late- 20s Caucasian male (good looks, medium/athletic build/height, versatile dark hair, mesmerizing blue eyes…can email you headshots, etc.) He’s a crucial member of our Team, and hopefully you will be, too!  Everyone ought to have their dreams “reelized”; let’s collaborate to Make It Happen, yo. To talk shop, please email: theactorproject@gmail.com

SEEKING WRITING PARTNER
Looking for a writer to make partners with and co-write. Initially I have two scripts waiting to be polished and fixed). Please send me your resume, a little about yourself and the style of writing, genres or favorite films/influences, you have. Initially this is non paid but obviously there is the writing credit. I am a foreign (yes that´s another reason why I need a writing partner) producer-director that wants to focus more on execution, getting the thing done and….weird…get distribution 🙂 Thanks for reading and talk to you soon. More Info: http://www.mandy.com/home.cfm?c=mga004 Apply to: Alicia at ali.blue.angel@gmail.com

HAVE SCRIPT NEEDING EDITING AND FORMATTING 
We are looking for an experienced screenwriter to edit and format our script. Must be located in Southern California. This is a paid project. Contact us at luisx310@yahoo.com

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests, classes, and conferences before you enter, and to copyright all your work before you submit.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Linkedin

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Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #32

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 17, 2012| 8 Comments »

 

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Hazel Hilles Memorial Short Fiction
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   18th September 2012
Fees:   $6 for one entry. CAD
Prizes:   $500 for first place. 2nd: $100 CAD; 3rd: $100 CAD.
Details:   Short fiction, any genre, any theme. Length: no minimum; 5000 words maximum. Full details and rules on website.
Country:   Canada
Website:   http://www.be-a-better-writer.com/creative-writing-contest.html

The Peter Hinchcliffe Fiction Award
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   28th May 2012
Fees:   $40 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place. All entries will be considered for paid publication ($250).
Details:   This annual contest is for short fiction by writers who have not yet published a novel or story collection. Open to Canadian citizens or residents only. No word limit. All entries will be judged blind. $40 entry fee includes a 1-year Canadian subscription. Details at website.
Country:   Canada
Website:   http://tnq.ca/peter-hinchcliffe-fiction-award

Swanwick Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th April 2012
Fees:  £5 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. Week at writers’ summer school plus publication; critique; magazine subscription.
Details:   For short stories up to 1,000 words on the theme: A sense of duty.
Contact:   Elizabeth Kay, Warners Group Publications, Fifth Floor, 31-32 Park Row, Leeds, LS1 5JD
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.swanwickwritersschool.co.uk/dynamic/documents/2012%20competition%20details.pdf

Hillerman Prize Mystery Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st June 2012
Fees:   $0 for one entry.
Prizes:   $10,000 for first place.
Details:   For crime novels of at least 60,000 words, with a primary setting in the Southwestern United States, including at least one of the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah.
Contact:   St. Martin’s Minotaur/THWC Competition St. Martin’s Minotaur 175 Fifth Avenue New York, New York 10010
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.wordharvest.com/contest.php

Henrietta Branford Writing Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   27th April 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. Opportunity to meet authors, editors, publishers, agents, and other professionals in this field, plus up to £150 travel expenses.
Details:   For short stories up to 1,500 words by writers under 19 living in the UK, using the opening paragraph on the website.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   anne.marley@tiscali.co.uk
Website:   http://www.branfordboaseaward.org.uk/HBWC/hbwcstart.html

Children’s story competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th April 2012
Fees:   £5 for one entry.
Prizes:  £100 for first place.
Details:   Stories can be up to 5000 words in length, suitable for readers aged 7-11 and the theme is open. 1st Publications of a small paperback plus £100 plus website publication, 2nd £50 plus website publication 3rd £25 plus website publication.
Contact:   18 Hillside Road Blidworth Nottinghamshire NG21 0TR
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   thynkspublications@yahoo.co.uk
Website:   http://www.thynkspublications.co.uk/competitions

Fineline Competition 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st June 2012
Fees:   $10 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place.
Details:   For prose poems or short short fiction up to 500 words. No verse.
Contact:   Mid-American Review, Department of English,
Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.bgsu.edu/studentlife/organizations/midamericanreview/fineline.html

Nottingham Short Story Competition 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th April 2012
Fees:   £10 for one entry.
Prizes:   £1,000 for first place. £250; £125.
Details:   For short stories on any subject up to 2,500 words.
Contact:   Prime Writing Academy, Nottingham Short Story Comp 2012, PO Box 10235, Nottingham NG2 9NY
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.primewritingacademy.com/competitions.php

Rannu Fund for Speculative Literature
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   $10 for one entry. $15 if entry is submitted in both categories.
Prizes:   $500 for first place. Two $500 prizes (poetry, fiction) and $50 honourable mentions in both categories.
Details:   NO ATTACHMENTS. Open to all countries. All entries in both fiction and poetry MUST be speculative literature in content. Poetry: up to 5 poems (unpublished) not to exceed 10 single-spaced pages. Fiction: submit one short story or a novel excerpt (unpublished) of no more than 7,000 words double-spaced. If submitting a novel excerpt, include a brief synopsis. Both categories: Plain text format. Include name, address, telephone number and e-mail address and a one-paragraph biography.
Country:   Canada
Email:   rannufund@gmail.com
Website:   http://rannu.webs.com

Fantasy/Medieval Short Story
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   15th May 2012
Fees:   $0 for one entry. 0
Prizes:   $0 for first place. 0.01/word. Publication in our Magazine.
Details:   Up to 6000 words of your best fantasy or mediaval fiction. We are looking for strong fantasy fiction that entertains and leaves the reader begging for more. Strong grammar and punctuation is a must. Submission by e-mail only please.
Country:   United States
Email:   adam@tavernsvault.com
Website:   http://www.tavernsvault.com

Marguerite McGlinn Prize for Fiction
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st June 2012
Fees:   $10 for one entry.
Prizes:   $2,000 for first place.
Details:   For previously unpublished short fiction, up to 8,000 words.
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.philadelphiastories.org/marguerite-mcglinn-prize-fiction-0

Writing Competitions–Cash Prizes!
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th April 2012
Fees:   Ł3 for one entry. Multiple competitions at different prices.
Prizes:   Ł200 for first place. Various prizes in different competitions.
Details:   Various competitions for people of all ages. Prizes for winners, and commendations in anthology. Fiction and non-fiction. Competitions include: New Novels, Open Short Story, Young Writers and Christian Short Story.
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.sunpenny.com

Short Story of the Month Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:  25th April 2012
Fees:  £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. £10 firstwriter.com Voucher, publication on the website and promo.
Details:   The short story of the month competition is open to all writers creating original and dynamic fiction (up to 2,000 words). In addition to the voucher and publication on the website, every entry will be considered for publication.
Contact:   Hayley Sherman
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   hayleysherman.editor@gmail.com
Website:   http://www.hayley-sherman.co.uk

Lucy Cavendish College Fiction Prize
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   27th April 2012
Fees:   £10 for one entry.
Prizes:   £1,000 for first place. Also editorial report and advice on publication.
Details:   For the first 30 pages of a novel by a woman over 21 who has not previously published a full-length novel.
Contact:   Fiction Prize, c/o President’s Secretary, Lucy Cavendish College, Lady Margaret Road, Cambridge CB3 0BU
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.lucy-cav.cam.ac.uk/whats-on/events-calendar/post/47-lucy-cavendish-college-fiction-prize-2012—enter-now

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

The 2012 Golden Claddagh
Sponsor: Celtic Hearts Romance Writers
Fee: $20–25.00
Deadline: May 5, 2012
Entry: 30 pages maximum with a 6 page synopsis maximum, total not to exceed 35 pages.
Judges: Trained, published & unpublished.
Final Judges: Editors and Agents.
FMI, http://www.celtichearts.org/contest.html.

2012 Ignite the Flame Contest
Sponsor: Central Ohio Fiction Writers
Fee: $25 for COFW members; $30 for non-members
Deadline: May 20, 2012
Eligibility: Unpublished authors
Entry: 15 pages of the hero/heroine* first meet scene (no synopsis), paper and electronic entries accepted (*hero/hero, heroine/heroine is also welcome).
Categories: Romantic Suspense, Historical Romance, Category-Length Contemporary, Young Adult, Single Title, Erotic Romance, Paranormal Romance.
Final Judges: Laura Bradford (Agent at Bradford Literary Agency), Deb Werksman (Editor at Sourcebooks), Rhonda Penders (Editor at Wild Rose Press), Andrea Somberg (Agent at Harvey Klinger, Inc.), Katherine Pelz (Editor at Berkley Publishing Group), Alicia Rasley (Editor at Red Sage), Lindsey Faber (Editor at Samhain Publishing).
FMI, www.COFW.org or email itfcontest@gmail.com.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:
(N.B. Only contact the companies listed below between 17th April – 2nd May2012)

LOOKING FOR QUALITY SCREENPLAY (GENRE IS OPEN)
A new production company is seeking screenplay submission on any good genre. The screenplay must be a finished one, with lots of intrigues and creativity. If you have any screenplay that you want to see produced submit a query to this mail: howard.tims@ymail.com. Please don’t submit any screenplay yet unless on request. The genre (e.g.: action, thriller, horror, comedy, drama, suspense, Sci-Fi etc.) is open for now because we are looking for something captivating. The budget is open too; glad to say that the company has lots of fund to invest, looking at producing couple of scripts this year and next. Submission ends on 10.04.2012

SEEKING 1 HOUR ACTION ORIENTED EPISODIC SCRIPTS
We are an independent film production company. We are looking for a writer with episodic scripts for a 1 hour TV Drama to be aired on a major Canadian Broadcast channel as follows: One-hour programs that can air between 8 to 9 p.m. and/or 9 to 10 p.m.; Action oriented programs (such as “Republic of Doyle.”); Female oriented, character driven shows (such as “Being Erica.”); Programs that speak directly to Canadians, about Canadians. Please note: We will accept submissions from Canadian writers only. The funding we seek can be only acquired on condition that the writer and producer are Canadians. If you have what it takes please provide a log line, synopsis and target audience. You can email us the information to filmscripts@flowpictures.com Only selected writers will be contacted. Apply to Gilbert Khoury.

SEEKING SCRIPT SET IN SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
We are ready to team up with another writer with a unique screenplay and create a movie that’s based around Scottish Highlands. Be advised that this is a low budget out of pocket project. Please send synopsis only for a 8-10 minute short. We will not accept a script without a synopsis first. Please Do not send a catchphrase, send a synopsis only. If we like the synopsis, we will get back and ask for screenplay. A synopsis must include a brief description of the screenplay/story. Thanks. Email us at casting@squareelephant.co.uk

SEEKING WRITING PARTNER FOR SITCOM PILOT
My name is Zack Lyon, I am a comedy/drama writer. I am seeking a writing partner to develop a sitcom pilot in which I have already have a first draft. I believe the scenario to be both extremely commercial and also original. I have contacts within the industry which I will discuss in person. I understand any writer may find the concept of working on another writers project potentially frustrating, but I believe with the help of another talented writer we can make this work. Due to my other drama projects I am struggling to commit the time it deserves. I’m looking to form a lengthy writing relationship. With a talented writer I see a future in dealing with. Contact me: lyon.zack@gmail.com

OPEN WRITING ASSIGNMENTS AT AMAZON STUDIOS 
Writers are invited to pitch their take on two Amazon Studios projects to be considered for Open Writing Assignments that will pay up to $33,000 each. To be considered for these Open Writing Assignments, you must submit a Writer’s Proposal by May 14, detailing your approach to a rewrite of the script or scripts — you can submit for both.

SEEKING WRITING PA
 Seeking a motivated writing PA for primetime cable award show in its second year to assist the lead writer on the show who can help break story (docu-style shorts and comedy shorts), research, brainstorm, punch up scripts, and help line up interviews. As the award show gets closer, responsibilities will also include managing changes in show script, updating run of show, and dealing with last minute script changes from producers and presenters’ agents. Award show is in October and work days will be sporadic (think once a week) and will grow as the award show draws near. Writing PA will also help work on other projects in development internally at the production company. Must know how to use Final Draft proficiently (in a production capacity, not just writing) and Photoshop and/or Illustrator is a plus. Please send resume and writing sample (original pilot or spec, with logline) to Tone at tone@mrbproductions.com Rate is $125/day.

SEEKING EXP. SCREENWRITER FOR IFEATURES2 COLLABORATION 
iFeatures2, the enhanced production initiative from Creative England and BBC Films, will green light 3 feature projects in Dec 2012 with budgets of £350,000 each. Level 5 Films will be submitting 2 projects to this very exciting development scheme and are currently looking to collaborate with a produced screenwriter on one of our submissions. If you are a screenwriter with a demonstrable track record (whether you live in the English regions or London), meet all of the requirements as outlined in the iFeatures guidelines (http://www.ifeatures2.co.uk/guidelines1.html) and feel that you have an exciting, fresh voice to add to the British Indie film landscape, then we would love to hear from you. PLEASE NOTE: If you are a Writer/Director and wish to apply to Level 5 Films you must have an excellent track record working at this budget level (i.e. you’ve won major awards as a director or have been critically acknowledged for your body of work) PLUS you must be prepared to go through an extensive development process on your proposed script with Level 5 Films acting as the lead creative producer in this instance. Take a look at the iFeatures page at http://www.level5films.com/ifeatures.html then click through to our submissions page to register your interest with us. On application to us we will require: 1.) A brief bio – pay particular attention to what inspires you as a writer and your experience with project development on previous work. 2.) A 25 word logline 3.) A brief synopsis or project outline. As a final note, if such films as ‘Last Resort’, ‘London to Brighton’, ‘Frozen River’, ‘Martha Marcy May Marlene’, ‘Blue Valentine’, & ‘Wendy and Lucy’ really do it for you as a writer, then we definitely want to hear from you. Submission deadline for iFeatures 2 is Tue 8th May. However, if you are interested in working with us we must receive your application in the first instance by THU 19th APRIL.

SCREENWRITING COLLABORATOR WANTED
I’m looking to collaborate with another screenwriter for a local feature film project. If you’d like to learn a little bit more about the film, then please visit traficantethemovie.com, although, I must say, the synopsis has changed a little and thus this is why I am now seeking another writer to collaborate with in recreating or tweaking the original story around. If interested, please reply to this posting or send me an email at deavilaj@yahoo.com We can go into details later.

WRITERS FOR SCRIPTS AND TREATMENTS WANTED
Do you have a gift with a pen? Do you like to have the skill to write great dialog? Can you paint a picture in just a few words? If you said yes, then Ath Wonder Entertainment is looking for you! We are looking for a few talented writers for scripts and treatments to start immediately. We have everything else we need to make our new Internet Television Channel, except you. Please send us your resume and an example of some of your work. Send inquiries to us at athwonderbiz@gmail.com We would look forward to hearing from you! Ath Wonder Entertainment.

SEEKING COMPLETED HIGH CONCEPT FEATURE SCRIPTS
We are a media production company in Atlanta looking for completed feature length, high-concept scripts to produce. We are placing emphasis on ROMANTIC COMEDY AND/OR DRAMA. The ideal concept will have minimal locations and cast, a unique non-traditional storyline with a short but strong hook in the logline. Pay to be determined. Please NO ACTION, THRILLER, SCI-FI, ETC. Thank you for your submission. INSTRUCTIONS to SUBMIT: We pay attention to professional, carefully proof-read queries and scripts. Thank you. *PLEASE READ CAREFULLY* (1) In SUBJECT line put – [TITLE]’ (2) Cut and Paste QUERY LETTER or SYNOPSIS ONLY into body of email at: SCRIPTS@WILDHUNDREDS.COM (3) Attach a FULL script. Partial scripts are accepted however, please note we can only make a decision from scripts we have read entirely. Thank you for your submission. You will be contacted if interested.

SHORT SCRIPTS WANTED
Producer seeks short scripts for Web Series. Must be crime, mystery, horror, supernatural with a twist. Scripts should be less than ten pages. Send inquiries to us at info@sunsetpicturesllc.com

DIRECTOR SEEKS SHORT SCRIPT
My name is Jay Sansone, I am a professional video director and photographer. I am currently looking for a short story writer to submit/or write a piece for a short film. The film should be from 2-6 minutes in length. We are looking for post-modern subjects, with quirky, witty, and interesting writing. Myself and crew each have over 6 years experience making shorts, and we are looking for a talented writer with interesting stories. Please contact me ASAP at jaysansone@gmail.com if you are interested. My work can be seen at http://www.jaysansone.com Here is my professional reel: http://vimeo.com/11243412

SCRIPT WRITER NEEDED
Script Writer needed to work on short film with Director. More Info: http://www.steveglashier.com.

SCREENWRITERS WANTED
Searching for screenwriter that wants to write and develop content with producer. Features, TV Pilots or Web series. We are currently looking for screenwriters for productions. We are looking for writers to help us put into writing some great ideas that we have already started to develop. This is a great opportunity to to be apart of a team and possibly have a story produced. We are a team of creative and driven individuals working together to get great projects done locally. Our team consists of local television, film and radio professionals with experience working for clients such as CNN, DISCOVERY, ABC, and more. Currently these are non paying positions, however, we offer the opportunity for growth, access to production equipment, press credentials, and production experience for your resume and portfolio. Most importantly we will make your stories come to life. You will have a product in your hands which we will market and distribute with your name. This should lead not only towards great networking, but also towards funding (grants, sponsors etc) for future projects. Send inquiries to us at auramediapro@gmail.com (To see some of our projects, please visit Youtube.com/TheAmpNetwork)

PARTNER FOR COMEDY SITCOM WANTED
Hi I’m making this post because I’m looking for a dedicated co-partner that will be willing to help me create an entire season of screenplays and shop around it for funding. The premise and the pilot is pretty much locked and completed. It’s also copyrighted and ready for funding! I’ve spoke to a few investors about the idea but I want to get a partner before I continue pitching this sitcom to anywhere else. I realized I can’t do this all on my own, literally impossible! So if you think you can do this hit me up in an email to quanmillion@hotmail.com and I’ll go over all the details as far as pay, agreement forms, the script, and the connections I have. Thank you. Quan.

ASSEMBLING TEAM FOR IFEATURES INITIATIVE
My current projects aren’t eligible so I’m looking for directors and especially writers to make an iFeatures team application. As I’m based in the regions, working with me would make you eligible to apply, no matter where you’re from in the UK. You also need a full team to be eligible, so lets hook up! iFeatures 2 are looking for projects in their early stages. 16 short listed teams will receive development money and support (min £1500 per script draft). Eventually 3 projects will be produced. Please read their guidelines carefully before sending me anything. http://www.ifeatures2.co.uk/guidelines1.html If you’ve already written a screenplay for your idea, this must be a very rough first draft only. Please don’t submit anything more developed than this, it will only lead to trouble for the whole team later on. For writers, the iFeatures application requires a logline up to 25 words, a synopsis up to 100 words, an outline up to 2,000 words (roughly 4 pages) and a bio up to 500 words. Please therefore send me something similar, however, I appreciate that it takes time to draft materials to these exact lengths – if you’ve already drafted docs for other schemes, you may send those instead. If I’m interested, we can work together on re-drafting for iFeatures specifications. If you are applying as a writer-director, please also include a showreel link. Or if you are applying as a director without a project, please just supply the bio and showreel. NOTES FOR DIRECTORS: This scheme favours teams where the writer and director are separate people. If you are truly a writer-director, and your work is equally strong in both areas, then no problem. However, my preference is to select the strongest ideas, before pairing them with directors. ALL DIRECTORS MUST HAVE MADE AT LEAST 2 SHORTS WHICH HAVE SCREENED AT FESTIVALS. ADDITIONALLY THEY MUST HAVE WON AT LEAST ONE AWARD, OR SCREENED AT ONE MAJOR FESTIVAL (E.G. Edinburgh, London, Cannes (not the short film corner), Berlin, Venice, Locarno, SXSW, Sundance, Tribeca, other Oscar qualifying festivals etc). Very competetive scheme – please don’t be offended if I can’t work with you on this occasion. And please be aware, I will read loglines and 100 word synopses first. If these haven’t grabbed me, I probably won’t have time to read your 4 page outline. iFeatures deadline is 8th of May. However, I NEED TO RECEIVE ALL EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST BY 5pm MONDAY 23rd OF APRIL. This will allow me time to read everything, pair projects with directors where necessary, and develop materials further before the iFeatures 2 deadline. Good luck, I will bounce back to confirm receipt of very application. Please just apply via my email – jack@shudderfilms.co.uk – no need to submit via the Talent Circle entry form. Thanks.

CONFERENCES AND CLASSES:

 

Conflict and idea course taught by Bob Mayer $30.00

 

Will be offered October 2012

 

(Registration Open) Can you say what your book is about in 25 words of less? This is essential to both writing a tight book and then selling it. We’ll discuss ways to find and state your original idea so that you stay on course while writing the book. The original idea will you excite those you tell it to when trying to sell it. Conflict drives your story. Not only must conflict escalate throughout the entire novel, every single scene must have conflict in it. The Conflict Box is an effective technique for focusing your story on the protagonist, antagonist, their goals and finding out if you have the necessary conflict lock. These two

The 32nd Writers Conference  22-24 June, 2012
This year, we have 74 authors, poets, screenwriters, commissioning editors, literary agents and industry specialists attending the conference!

Alan Titchmarsh, OBE, gardener, novelist, broadcaster, raconteur and everyone’s friend, will lead our glittering line-up of novelists, poets, playwrights, commissioning editors, literary agents and industry specialists as our Plenary Speaker

Jackie Kay, poet and storyteller will charm us with her best readings, Jack Sheffield will be showing aspiring writers how to create successful novels from his diaries as a Yorkshire school teacher, Margaret Graham, a great Winchester favourite, returns with cleaver ideas to construct novels, Sally Spedding, Lesley Horton, and Lindsey Ashford will conspire on crime fiction techniques. This is just a taster!

With the very able help of Sara Gangai, our administrator, we are piecing together the myriad collection of 50 lectures, 14 Masters’ Courses, 18 workshops and 500 one-to-one appointments that become this international event for all writers.

In addition, eighteen writing competitions with 68 prizes are being clicked into place with sponsors and specifications, waiting for your creative ideas.

 

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests, classes, and conferences before you enter, and to copyright all your work before you submit.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Linkedin

Read Full Post »

Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #31

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 2, 2012| 2 Comments »

 

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Jerry Jazz Musician New Short Fiction Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   $0 for one entry.
Prizes:   $100 for first place.
Details:   For short stories between 1,000 and 5,000 words that would appeal to a reader with interests in music, social history, literature, politics, art, film and theatre, particularly that of the counter-culture of mid-twentieth century America.
Country:   United States
Email:   jm@jerryjazz.com
Website:   http://www.jerryjazzmusician.com/mainHTML.cfm?page=fictioncontest.html

Writersbillboard Short Fiction 
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   27th April 2012
Fees:   £2.50 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. Prize is publication on the website
Details:   Short stories, 400-4000 words, any theme.
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.writersbillboard.net

The Stringybark Seven Deadly Sins Award
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   10th June 2012
Fees:   $9.95 for one entry. Discounts for multiple entires.
Prizes:   $350 for first place. A$150/ A$75 plus publication.
Details:   Awarded for a short story that relates to one (or more) of the seven deadly sins: lust, gluttony; greed, sloth, wrath, envy and pride/vanity. Cordially invites all writers, including our international friends, to put their hand to writing a short story in 1500 words or fewer.
Contact:   David Vernon
Country:   Australia
Email:    judges@stringybarkstories.net
Website:   http://www.stringybarkstories.net

Novel Beginnings 1st Chapter Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th April 2012
Fees:   $10 for one entry. Limit 3 entries
Prizes:   $150 for first place. Second – $75, third – $50.
Details:   Open to all. Open subject (no explicit or gore). Max 6,000 words. Winning entry posted, winner profiled on website. Free critique to first 50 entries. Optional line edit available, $2 per page.
Contact:   The Write Helper, 104 Harke Lane, Old Monroe, MO 63369.
Country:   United States
Email:   amy@thewritehelper.com
Website:   http://www.thewritehelper.com

Sheldon Currie Fiction Prize
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   $25 for one entry. $30 (US); $40 (RoW).
Prizes:   $600 for first place. $400; $200. Also publication.
Details:   For fiction up to 20 pages.
Contact:   The Antigonish Review Contest, Box 5000, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, B2G 2W5
Country:   Canada
Email:   tar@stfx.ca
Website:   http://www.antigonishreview.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=59&Itemid=62

The Novel Prize 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st August 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. £6,000 worth of professional services.
Details:   The Novel Prize showcases how far self-publishing, handled professionally, can take you by offering a unique opportunity to win expert editorial, design, publishing and marketing services. The winner receives: 1. Editing (worth up to £2,500); 2. Design and publishing (£1,000); 3. Publicity (£500); 4. Social media consultancy and web design (£2,000). Entry is free and is open until 31 August 2012. Full terms on the website.
Contact:   The Book Specialist, Bye Pass Road, Nottingham, England
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.thebookspecialist.com

The FFW Flash Fiction Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   9th June 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry. Free to enter.
Prizes:   £25.00 for first place. 2nd £15.00, 3rd £10.00
Details:   All stories of up to 1000 words that are published on our site are automatically entered into our free quarterly competition.
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.flash-fiction-world.com

Cowbridge Book Festival 
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st April 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £100 for first place. 2nd prize £50 3rd prize £25.
Details:   This is an opportunity for everyone over the age of sixteen, who enjoys writing, to put his/her literary skills to the test. Your task: To compose an introductory chapter to a short story in not more than 750 words. To enter post your submission to the address below.
Contact:   Cowbridge Book Festival 2012, Creative Writing Competition, Cowbridge Community College, Old Hall, High St. Cowbridge, CF71 7AH
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://cowbridgebookfestival.co.uk/creative-writing-competition/

The Word Hut Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   13th May 2012
Fees:   £4 for one entry.
Prizes:   £50 for first place.
Details:   Short stories up to 1000 words on any theme or in any genre. Written in English. Stories previously posted on blogs accepted.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   info@thewordhut.com
Website:   http://www.thewordhut.com

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

**Romancing the ScriptSponsor: Scriptscene RWA
Fee: $20 for Scriptscene members, $25 for other RWA chapter members
Deadline: May 1, 2012
Eligibility: Any RWA chapter member.
Entry: First Act, not to exceed 30 pages. Electronic entry only. PDF format. Entry must be in standard industry spec script format. (See Scriptscene website for example.) If chosen as one of the 3 finalists, full completed script (PDF) must be submitted for the final judging.
Categories: Any genre as long as there are romantic elements in script.
Preliminary Judges: Professionals in the movie industry.
Final Judge: Suzanne Lyons, Producer/President Snowfall Films, Inc and WindChill Films, Inc.
Top Prizes: Read by Zac Sanford, VP of Development at Suntaur Entertainment. Winner/Finalists receive log line listing in InkTip and a 6-month subscription to InkTip’s Preferred Newsletter (www.inktip.com). Please check Scriptscene’s website for additional prizes.
FMI, visit Scriptscene http://www.scriptscene.org. Please contact Leslie Ann Sartor at rts.contest@gmail.com if you have questions.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:
(N.B. Only contact the companies listed below between 2 April – 25th April 2012)

NYC ARTS SCHOOL SEEKS SCREENWRITING FACULTY 
The Bronx Academy of the Arts (opening 2014) is seeking prospective (part-time) faculty for the following positions: Intro to Screenwriting, Advanced Screenwriting, My First Novel, Intro to Songwriting. Apply online at http://www.bronxartsacademy.com/faculty-staff-application. All levels of experienced and talent are welcome. Thank you.

ASIA-BASED PRODUCERS SEEK SCRIPTS 
We are Asian-based producers soliciting completed feature-length scripts (action-adventure / thriller / sci fi / etc) that portray stories and/or characters about Chinese culture and/or that are set in China — OR — scripts with an identifiable rewrite potential set in China (‘sinosizable’). Successful scripts will be produced in the People’s Republic of China and will necessarily be vetted by the government. Content already translated into Mandarin and/or pre-approved material will be given very high priority. Budget range to be determined. Both WGA and non-WGA writers may submit. Send inquiries to us at intlcreative@gmail.com

PRODUCTION COMPANY SEEKS SCRIPTS 
THE PHILM COMPANY is looking to expand our slate of scripts specifically COMMERCIAL stories that can be produced on 500k-£2m of any genre. We’re also interested in reading scripts that are set in Asia and written by screenwriters local to that region. We’re always looking to find the next best screenplay but be realistic: we are not a studio and therefore probably unable to produce your $500m sci-fi blockbuster! If you are a represented writer, please ask your agent/manager to submit your project via the guidelines below. Selected scripts will be optioned by the company and developed with the writer. At this initial stage please ONLY submit: a log-line and a synopsis (up to one page.) Send to info@philmcompany.com If we like the sound of your script we will then contact you to request a full length screenplay. DO NOT SEND SCREENPLAYS STRAIGHT AWAY. Please do NOT send short film or documentary ideas.

SCREENWRITER FOR COLLABORATION
Do you have a great logline?  An intriguing idea?  A first draft or an in-depth outline for a screenplay that will get industry attention?  If you do and need help with structure, dialogue, etc., I can help.  I have optioned one feature and have had a 20-minute drama produced.   I would like to collaborate with another writer with a great idea.  If that is you, write to me at screenwriter500@aol.com

MADATOMS.COM SEEKING FREELANCE COMEDY WRITERS 
MadAtoms.com is seeking freelance (paid) comedy writers to produce our daily comedy content in the form of essays, charts, comics, infographics, illustrations and more. If you’re a hilarious writer interested in writing with a unique take on sex, dating, politics, film and TV, pop culture and everything else relavent to creative 20-somethings, get in touch. Please send samples to submissions@madatoms.com Please no fake news, “funny” sports commentary, blatantly copy-pasted generic CVs without samples, or links to an impossible-to-navigate blog about your college basketball team. We want short and funny. We pay for every article we publish, offer good exposure, and have hookups with a major studio in L.A. Thanks.

SEEKING BRIT COM FEATURE SCREENPLAY
Eclipse Talent are looking to make their first comedy feature film. A Brit Flick in similar style to The Full Monty and East is East. If you have a script or idea that you think we might be interested in please email: eclipsetalent@aol.com THE SCREENPLAY MUST BE BRITISH.

LOOKING FOR A CREATIVE SCRIPTWRITER 
Looking for a creative scriptwriter to help with the script for a promotional film trailer to promote the sport of airsoft within the UK. The short 1 minute advert is a collaboration to enable us to test the limitations of the Canon DSLR’s and C300 in a variety of conditions and set-ups. Airsofting is a hobby sport within the UK that caters for teenagers and adults alike to enjoy ‘real’ call of duty game play, utilising realistic weaponry and tactics, the sport is played throughout the UK on a number of woodland, urban and sometimes offshore sites! I’ve got a basic script plan, with locations already organised, along with kit and crew. I’m now looking for a talented scriptwriter to develop a narrative around what we have, this will be a great opportunity for anyone looking to move into screenplay development and may lead to future work – as we’re currently looking at funding a feature. Dates for filming are currently the 14th and 15th of April. Send inquiries to tom@tbpfilms.com

DIRECTOR SEEKS FEATURE SCREENPLAY
I am a director looking for a feature film screenplay that I would turn into my debut. If finding the right material, funds for the film will not be a problem – after directing a short film trilogy, I am currently second director on a major feature film shot in the Czech Republic and the production company is happy to back my own debut. I am looking to shoot as soon as 1st half of 2013. If you are a writer with a good script (or even just an idea) looking to have their screenplay produced, please send me a 1 page treatment to mike.samir@live.com Any genre, any length, at this stage I am completely open, looking for the right thing, something that will shatter all the ideas I have. If your script is intriguing to me, I will immediately contact you with more details. Looking forward to hearing from you.

SCREENWRITER FOR TRACK/COACHING FILM STORY
You know how to craft a slick, professional screenplay.  But do you also know about track & field, about coaching?  If so, we should talk.  I have a film story that can win.  Am seeking a writing partner to develop my treatment into a full screenplay.  Imagine bad news brs. + chariots of fr. x Special Olympics.  Work together in trust and integrity; share equally in a sale. Send inquiries to me, Jess Prochilo, at jesspro98@hotmail.com

LOOKING FOR SCRIPT EDITOR 
I am looking for a script editor to edit my three short film scripts. The first one is a 25 page short film script. If we are both happy working together after this one then we will work on the other scripts. These are all non-profit short film scripts but I will be happy to pay 100 GBP per script. Native language should be English. Please inquire with me at omerkula@kulaworks.com

PILOT WRITER WANTED
I have an idea for a  dramedy television series, but I  want somebody to write the pilot. Think PUSHING DAISIES meets GLEE with a hint of THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA. Send your writing samples to Tim Bartow at baackflipcreator@aol.com under the subject line “pilot writer”. Non-paying gig.

DIRECTOR SEEKS CHARACTER DRIVEN COMEDY FOR 2013 PRODUCTION
Jnine Media and lead director are looking for feature length dark or quirky character driven comedies for option and production. (Examples: Juno, Napoleon Dynamite, School for Scoundrels) Family, character, and/or multicultural driven casts a plus. Script would be optioned and considered for 2013 production.  Budget range would be $200,000-$500,000. Option fee available. Please send the synopsis and/or script for your project to Jenn Shaw at jenn@jninemedia.com. The director will contact you directly with interest. Thank you.

COMEDIC SCREENWRITER NEEDED FOR SOCIAL MEDIA SKETCH SERIES 
Poquito Johnson films are in need of an experienced screenwriter to collaborate on a “on the fly” social media comedy sketch series which takes place in Tampa Florida. Ideal candidate would be in the Tampa area, be between the ages of 18-34, and of course be *frigging* awesome. If samples are submitted, please register them with an appropriate Writing Guild before submission. Currently position is non-paid. Contact Mutt Johnson at poquito.johnsonfilms@gmail.com

CONFERENCES AND CLASSES:

Building The Author Internet Presence — 2 Month Course by Jen Talty $40.00

Will be Offered May/June 2012

Register here. If you don’t exist on the Internet do you exist at all? Discoverability is the key to the 21st century author. In this workshop I will guide you through various on-line interactions that can help increase your Discoverability. In order to be discovered it is important to make sure everything you do has a unifying them. All of your interactions on the Internet have to be meaningful to you and your followers. We will discuss your banding and marketing plans, making sure you have all the key elements in place. This workshop is heavy in content and theory, however there will many exercises to help you increase your brand’s discoverability.

SHAPING YOUR STORY: Narrative Structure Workshop *5 places left

With Vicky Grut 
Saturday, 21 April 2012, 10.30am – 4pm

A practical day of writing exercises and focused discussion for novelists and short story writers who want to explore story structure. Come along and experiment with different kinds of story shapes or bring an existing story outline and get feedback on work-in-progress in a supportive environment. Cost: £85 includes tea, coffee and a sandwich lunch. Group limit: 12. 

 

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests, classes, and conferences before you enter, and to copyright all your work before you submit.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Linkedin

Read Full Post »

Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #30

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 27, 2012| Leave a Comment »

 

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Graffiti Magazine Writing Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   10th April 2012
Fees:   £2 for one entry.
Prizes:   £25 for first place. Also magazine publication.
Details:   For short stories on any theme, up to 1,000 words.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   graffiti.magazine@yahoo.co.uk
Website:   http://www.wilkiemartin.com/competition.php

Wolfe Pack’s Black Orchid Novella Award
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   $0 for one entry.
Prizes:   $1,000 for first place. Also magazine publication.
Details:   For crime mystery novellas between 15,000 and 20,000 words.
Contact:   Jane K. Cleland, Chair, Jane K. Cleland, P.O. 3233, New York, NY 10163-3233
Country:   United States
Email:   jane@janecleland.net
Website:   http://www.nerowolfe.org/htm/neroaward/black_orchid_award/BO_award_intro.htm

Novelicious Undiscovered 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   3rd April 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. Prizes include Kindle; vouchers; critique; books.
Details:   For the first 3,000 words of a chick-lit novel.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   undiscovered@novelicious.com
Website:   http://www.novelicious.com/noveliciousundiscovered2012.html

Best and Brightest Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   13th May 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £200 for first place. There are plenty of other prizes on offer as well- visit our website for further details!
Details:   A creative writing competition for student and graduate authors; a competition that isn’t just limited to the members of a single University’s Students’ Union, but one which is open to entrants from across the United Kingdom, and beyond! After judging all the entries on a regional basis, anthologies of the 10 regional shortlists will be published; and 2 months later, the readers’ votes will be counted to see who makes it into the FINAL anthology!
Contact:   292 Rochfords Gardens, Slough, Berkshire SL2 5XW
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   bestandbrightestcompetition@gmail.com
Website:   http://best-and-brightest.co.uk

Pearl Short Story Prize
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   $10 for one entry.
Prizes:   $250 for first place. Also magazine publication.
Details:For short stories up to 4,000 words.
Contact:   Pearl Short Story Prize, 3030 E. Second Street, Long Beach, CA 90803
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.pearlmag.com/contests.html

Steyning Festival Short Story Competition 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st March 2012
Fees:   £4 for one entry. Three for £10.
Prizes:   £250 for first place. £50; £25.
Details:   For unpublished fiction up to 1,500 words. Any theme.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   steyningbookshop@yahoo.co.uk
Website:   http://www.steyningfestival.co.uk/short-story-competition-2012

SCRIPTS

Shoreline Screenwriting Competition 2012
Entry Fee: £25 ($38approx) Early Deadline.The Competition Is Open!
Shoreline Scripts Screenwriting Competition 2012 is made up of a small team of experienced producers and script consultants.
Our strong relationships within the industry, both in the UK and US, enables us to pair the right projects with the most suited producer.
Prizes are great, but a writers biggest challenge is getting his or her work out there. That’s where we come in. Throughout the competition, and after, we will activelyget the best scripts into the hands of the people that can get them made.
Shoreline Scripts is open to anyone, anywhere in the world!

Website:   http://www.shorelinescripts.com/index.html

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

International Digital Awards (IDA)
Sponsor: Oklahoma Romance Writers of America
Fee: $15.00
Deadline: May 1, 2012
Eligibility: Any ebook with a copyright date of 2010 or 2011 that was eligible for sale in 2010 or 2011 and is NOT available in print.
Entry: Non DRM PDF as email attachment.
Categories: (All of the following offer BOTH a short/novella and a Novel category in each genre) Contemporary, Erotica, Historical, Inspirational, Paranormal, Suspense, Young Adult.
Judges: Readers, including other unpublished and published authors.
Top Prize: Winner of each category (short and Novel) will receive an engraved paperweight and reviews, tweets, and Facebook posts from at least five OKRWA members. Bonus prize: All entrants will be placed in a drawing for a free book trailer.
FMI, http://IdaContest.Wordpress.com.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:
(N.B. Only contact the companies listed below between 26 March – 17th April 2012)

MEDIA COMPANY SEEKS WRITERS
Miso Studios seeks writers to produce witty and informative content for Social TV second screen platform. This content (we call them sideshows) will be synchronized in real time with the content from the your TV set-top box.  We are looking for writers that have a good understanding of social media space and technology-savvy.  The position will require 10 hours a week at flat rate to produce 5 sideshows and extend through an entire season (8-10 weeks). Go to http://goo.gl/DOmw6 to indicate your interest in the Miso Studio Writer position. Feel free to check out our website for more information: gomiso.com/sideshows

SCREENWRITER WANTED
Cinemonger Motion Picture Company is seeking SCREENWRITERS to work with on developing feature films. Responsibilities: Work closely with producers to form characters, story and dialog; Brainstorm with the development team; Perform in-depth research; Write character bios, outlines, treatments, scenes, synopses and screenplays; Follow grammar, style and legal guidelines; Stay on schedule. Requirements: Must have completed a minimum of two feature-length screenplays; Must be extremely comfortable with screenplay format, structure and the English language; Must understand how a film is made and knowledgeable about film language; Must be a team player and open to criticism and direction; Must be a self-motivated individual; Must have the ability and talent to write in multiple genres. Please send cover letter, bio, filmography or resume and a 5-10 page sample in TWO of the following categories: Quirky Character Piece; Sexy Suspense/Thriller; Action Sequence; Teen Drama or Comedy (R-rated is OK); Family Drama or Comedy. DO NOT SEND more than 20 total pages. Send all materials to: ASSISTANT@CINEMONGER.COM Compensation is negotiable, depending on experience of writer and budget of project. On average of $400 – $1,000 initial payment. Plus back end profit sharing.

SEEKING SCREENWRITERS FOR SHORT FILM 
Looking for a STORY WRITER for a short film. The genre is psyhco-thriller. Premise, characterization and basic story arc is already chalked out. The writer needs to fill in the gaps with interesting events in the life of the character(s), add exciting and fresh story elements, build a dramatic conflict with suitable twists & turns. The film is intended for the festival circuit and movie channels on TV & online. Freshers are most welcome, provided they have keen sense of storytelling and a basic understanding of what is possible on screen and what not, within the limited budget of an experimental short film. People who are passionate about doing something different & exciting in this industry, please apply with your CV here and also send a short sample of your creative fiction writing to soumya.tvconceptsdev@gmail.com

SEEKING EXPERIENCED SCREENWRITERS
We are looking for experienced screenwriters for the pre-production of a major film. Serious inquires only. All interested candidates must be familiar with the current standard screenplay format (i.e. Final Draft software). For more information, please contact Noel at sbv7four@gmail.com

SEEKING LATINA SCREENWRITER 
Looking for a Latina screenwriter that wants to join me in writing a feature script based on my short film Neon Angels. (Neon Angels has played in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Atlanta Film Festival.) Pay will be $200 – after script is done. Contact me, Alex Clavijo, at asclavijo@yahoo.com

ONLINE SERIAL WRITER SEEKS SCREENWRITER
Online serial writer (GUIOPERA) seeks stealth screenwriter (someone who goes about their business undetected) for long term partnership to develop concepts and ideas for TV, film and online/video games. The partnership will yield new intellectual property for new company created by collaboration. so there is no pay in the first instance. Please email john@etfiction.com for more information.

COMEDIC SCREENWRITER SEEKS COLLABORATOR
Comedic screenwriter is on quest for epic collaboration with equally talented writer for dramedy project. Specifically looking for writer(s) with some experience. Must have a thorough knowledge of the 90’s. Send messages of interest to Mutt Johnson at poquito.johnsonfilms@gmail.com. Gig is non-paid.

SCREENPLAYS FOR PRODUCTION WANTED 
V-FilmS is looking for film scripts, regardless of runtime or genre – however we give exciting and crazy scripts preference. Main condition for entries is that the scripts are innovative and can be produced on low budgets. Please send your script (include a short synopsis) to contribute@meridianum.eu. If you have no script as of now, send us a message anyway if you are interested in writing for us on a freelance basis. We are looking forward to your exciting work and stories.

STUDENT PRODUCER LOOKING FOR FEATURE SCRIPT
Hi, I’m taking a producing program in NYFA. I’m looking for a script which is any genre but related with tourism, or travel, or theme park, or any kinds of movie theaters. Yor script would be developed as a feature film project for a student thesis, which include all business plans, bugeting, scheduling, and potentail director, potentail castings. If possible, I am going to find the resource to produce it. Contact me, James Chuang, at jameschuang0422gmail.com I’m willing to have an option agreement if the script has a potential to develop as a feature film.

NEED FEATURE SCREENPLAY
Small video company needs a feature film screenplay for ultra low budget production. Shooting only in NYC area with 2-3 main actors. We can pay a little money. Contact Alen at alex.video@yahoo.com

SEEKING SCREENWRITERS FOR COLLABORATION
Hi, I am looking for Writing Partners who are serious and creative. Looking for people who are willing to travel to meet just as i am willing to travel to meet. I have started multiple projects in the action and comedy categories and have acquired some good contacts to send material out when it is finished. You will receive a percentage of what comes out of the finished product. I have a great movie started that just needs some touching up on the script so it won’t take long to finish. I am looking to get 1-2 other writing partners to possibly develop into a real money making writing team. If you are interested please email me at darakkhamone@yahoo.com and we can exchange contact info. Thanks, Darak Khamone.

PRODUCTION COMPANY SEEKING SCREENWRITERS 
Central Station Media is a well-established production company that has filmed and edited over 500 TV commercials which have aired on national and International TV channels, and has produced 1 feature film to date. As we open our new Hollywood production facility our company will be selecting the 5 most-promising screenwriters (based on previous work), as well as the five most promising directors in a contest to showcase local talent and draw attention to our company’s new feature film production capabilities. During production, Central Station Media will provide all equipment, casting, and production facilities at absolutely no cost to screenwriters or directors. There is no pay associated with this project, but screenwriters and directors that are chosen will have access to a full studio of equipment to make their creative visions a reality. For Screenwriters: Please submit a SHORT screenplay that is 3-5 pages long, and preferably takes place in 1-2 locations. For Directors, please submit your resumes to the email associated with this posting. We look forward to reading your screenplays and resumes. Send to us at censtation@gmail.com

DIRECTOR SEEKING SCRIPTWRITER FOR COLLABORATION
I am an award-winning director looking for a scriptwriter to collaborate on another short film in the near future. I have just finished another short but am hungry to collaborate on another exciting project. I have a great track record of successfully making the most of script ideas, delivering great pitches and overall achieving funding through national film funding schemes. I will use part of that funding to pay for the production rights to your script, so that your creativity and hard work are fully rewarded. I would like to receive any treatments/scripts for a short films that you have written and feel would make a good short film. Ideally looking for fictional dramas of any sort. Please email your submissions to Rohan Green: rrrproductions@hotmail.com Then we can speak soon and take it from there. In the meantime, here are a few links of interest: http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/london/hi/people_and_places/2012/newsid_8950000/8950008.stm and http://filmlondon.org.uk/news/2010/july/award_winners_announced_for_best_of_boroughs Thank you.

YOUNG SCORE WRITER LOOKING TO WRITE SCORES FOR MOVIES 
I am a young score writer that has made many scores, but none of them have ever been used. I would love to work on a score for a movie. If you are interested in my full list of works and my complete bio, please contact me at mtmichael13@gmail.com

LOOKING FOR DRAMA/DRAMEDY SCRIPTS 
We’re a film team looking for some good drama/dramedy scripts. You should really only send scripts (to: storybirdfilms@gmail.com) that are WGA protected–it’s just a smart thing to do. For further info about us visit our web site at http://storybirdfilms.com/. You’ll notice a lot of comedy, but we’re looking to branch out. There is no pay, nor is there any plan to make money. This is art for art’s sake. If it turns out well, we’ll submit it around to festivals. Thank you.

SCREENWRITERS WANTED 
I am a producer and starting a new company and need fresh, talented writers who can give words to the imaginations and can create a magic onscreen and can attract audience. Interested candidates can apply and can send sample of their work or loglines in any genre to me, Ekta, at ekta_lovesdancing@yahoo.com

LOOKING FOR SCREENWRITER FOR MUSIC TELEVISION SHOW 
Looking for screen/script writer for a short community music television show. One day shoot. Payment is on a lo/no/deferred basis. Apply to Gabriel at amfestevents@gmail.com

CONFERENCES AND CLASSES:

Self-Publishing Options–6 Week Course taught by Bob Mayer & Jen Talty for $40.00

Will be offered April 2012

(Registration Open) Published author considering publishing your backlist? Unpublished author considering self-publishing? This workshop will look closely at self-publishing distribution channels from what kind of file you will need to upload your eBook to various options you have in creating the files. We will also discuss all the various platforms such as Kindle, Nook, iBooks and Smashwords and what are the best strategies to getting your book up for sale. We will discuss doing it yourself, outsourcing and team-building options. Authors have more options today than ever before, but the process can be overwhelming. While this is not a step-by-step technical class, the workshop is designed to give you enough information to make informed decisions on how to get your eBook on all formats possible. Course taught by Bob Mayer and Jen Talty

San Francisco Writer’s Conference – February 14-17, 2013

We are proud to announce bestselling author R.L. Stine will be our keynote speaker for 2013.

Continued for the 2013 SFWC  More conference! The SFWC will start on Thursday evening and run through the entire President’s Day weekend. Both new and returning attendees will appreciate the welcome session on Thursday evening (Feb. 14th) at no additional cost. As always, the main event is Friday through Sunday…but now there will be optional PreEvent and PostEvent Master Class writing intensive sessions which will be announced later this year. Watch your Newsletter for announcments. 
Click here for registration information.

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests, classes, and conferences before you enter, and to copyright all your work before you submit.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Linkedin

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Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #29

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 19, 2012| 6 Comments »

 

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Writers’ Journal Short Story Contest
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th May 2012
Fees:   $10 for one entry.
Prizes:   $350 for first place. $125; $75.
Details:   For short stories up to 2,000 words.
Contact:   Short Story Contest, Val-Tech Media, P.O. Box 394, Perham, MN 56573 Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.writersjournal.com/ShortStoryContest.htm

DreamQuestOne Writing Comp – Summer 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st July 2012
Fees:   $10 for one entry. add $2 transaction fee for electronic entries
Prizes:   $500 for first place. All contest winners will be published online.
Details:   This writing contest is international; open to anyone having a story that’s worth telling everyone! Now accepting short stories, 5 pages maximum, fiction, on any subject or theme, neatly hand printed or typed, single or double line spacing for a chance to win cash prizes! First Prize: $500, 2nd: $250, 3rd: $100. Postmark deadline: July 31, 2012. Visit the website below for details and enter!
Contact:   Dream Quest One, Writing Contest, P.O. Box 3141, Chicago, IL 60654
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.dreamquestone.com

Calderdale Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   6th July 2012
Fees:   £4 for one entry.
Prizes:   £300 for first place. Second Prize £100, Runners Up £50.
Details:   No theme. Short stories up to 3,0000 words.
Contact:   Anna Turner, Central Library,Northgate, Halifax, HX1 1UN
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   anna.turner@calderdale.gov.uk
Website:   http://www.calderdale.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/readers/writing-competition/index.html

Colonsay book festival writing comp
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   20th April 2012
Fees:   £0 for one entry.
Prizes:   £0 for first place. A book from one of the book festival authors.
Details:   As part of our book festival we are holding a 100 word flash fiction competition. Submissions may be on any topic but must include the word Colonsay. Submissions must be exactly 100 words long. Winning entries may be published in a short phamphlet. Please submit via e-mail.
Contact:   Colonsay Book Festival, Drumclach Cottage, Isle of Colonsay, Argyll, PA61 7YR
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   colonsaybookfestival@hotmail.co.uk
Website:   http://www.spanglefish.com/colonsaybookfestival/index.asp

Flash a Famous Phrase
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st May 2012
Fees:   £1.00 for one entry.
Prizes:   £30.00 for first place. 2nd £20, 3rd £15. Winners also get Featured Writer page on our website.
Details:   Celebrating National Flash Fiction Day! Stories up to 500 words based on a famous phrase or saying. Winners announced on May 16, National Flash Fiction Day.
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.flash-fiction-world.com/flash-fiction-famous-phrase-competition.html

Sentinel Literary Quarterly Short Story
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   5th April 2012
Fees:   £4.00 for one entry. £8 (2 stories), £10 (3), £12 (4)
Prizes:   £150 for first place. Second Prize: £75, Third Prize: £50, High Commendation £10 x 3 plus publication.
Details:   For previously unpublished short stories in English language on any subject, in any style, up to 1,500 words long. 1 Entrant will win 1 year’s subscription to our writing competitions magazine.
Contact:   Sentinel Poetry Movement, Unit 136, 113-115 George Lane, South Woodford, London E18 1AB.
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   competitions@sentinelpoetry.org.uk
Website:   http://sentinelquarterly.com/competitions/short-stories-0412/

2012 Unbound Press Short Story Award
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   30th April 2012
Fees:   £5.00 for one entry. £5 or €8 or $10
Prizes:   £500 for first place. £500, £250, £125 Anthology publication, winners and shortlist receive 1 free copy
Details:   Length: 1500 words, no min.
Contact:   Unbound Press, PO Box 16864, Glasgow, G11 9DJ or unboundpress@gmail.com
Country:   United Kingdom
Website:   http://www.unboundpress.com/competitions

2012 Spilling Ink Flash Fiction Prize
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st March 2012
Fees:   £5.00 for one entry. 1 £5 / 3 £10, 1 €8 / 3 €16, 1 $10 / 3 $20
Prizes:   £500 for first place. £500, £250, £125, Anthology publication, winners and shortlist receive 1 free copy
Details:   Length: 500 words, no min.
Contact:   Spilling Ink Review, PO Box 16864, Glasgow, G11 9DJ or spillingink.email@gmail.com
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   spillingink.email@gmail.com
Website:   http://www.spillinginkreview.com/competitions

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

The 5th Annual Alaska Break-Up Contest
Sponsor: Alaska Chapter of RWA
Fee: $30.00
Deadline: May 1, 2012
Eligibility: Submitted manuscripts must be unpublished.
Entry: All entries electronic; submit up to 10 pages of your manuscript’s most tense argument, breakup, or black moment. A 1–3 page scene set-up may be included but will not be judged.
Categories: Open to all categories and heat levels.
Judges: AKRWA trained judges, PRO and published authors.
Final Judges: Publishing Editor TBA
Top Prize: Personal critique of the entry by New York Times Bestselling Author, Cherry Adair.
FMI, for full rules, please visit http://akrwa.org.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:

FREELANCE SCRIPT/COPY WRITERS SOUGHT BY UK CREATIVE AGENCY
Superhero, a central London moving image creative agency is seeking talented freelance script writers to work on a range of projects. Superhero works primarily with entertainment brands: films, video games, music, theatre, live events, lifestyle producing TV ads, film trailers, EPKs and video content for on-line use. Sought are writers to work on a range of projects: TV ad copy, Film trailer copy, EPK / Vodcast interview questions and structure, Advertiser funded programming ideas and Brand content film ideas. If you have expertise in all or some of these areas please apply with details of experience and rates.

SEEKING HORROR FEATURE FILM SCRIPTS
Perdell Productions LLC is looking for completed horror feature film scripts for micro-budget production. Check out the director’s latest feature film http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2069957/. Please submit to us at prtfhasco@gmail.com a quick description, along with a synopsis of the script(s). Writers will be compensated based on the sale of the finished project. Serious inquiries only please. Thank you.

SHORT SCRIPTS WANTED (CANADIAN WRITERS ONLY)
I am a established Montreal cinematographer/director with over 25 years experience looking to director my next short.  All genres are welcome. Script should be between 5 – 7 pages. For funding purposes, the writer must be Canadian. Financial compensation to be provided based on the quality of the work. Please send a copy of your script to my assistant, Patrick Greatbatch, at greatbatchmtl@gmail.com.

EXPERIENCED WRITER NEEDED FOR DOC FEATURE SCRIPT
Screenwriter needed for feature documentary project in final stages of post. Experience in writing a feature documentary script is required. I would like to see your previous work(s). Pay to be negotiated. Please contact Cass Paley at cass@casspaley.com. Thank you.

LOOKING FOR SHORT FILM SCRIPT
I’m looking for a short film script that can be produced on a budget of next to nothing, but still look great and catch the eye. If you can use storytelling to really grab the imagination, I can do the rest. I’m particularly interested in magical realism, conceptual science fiction, or spooky but intelligent horror. Something transportive, that takes the viewers outside themselves. A good example (as far as features go) would be David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive, or Jacques Rivette’s Celine & Julie Go Boating. Please get in touch for more details, to pitch at me, or if you’d like to send a script, please feel free. Looking at around 5-10 minutes in length. Send to me, Adam, at adam.leslie@btinternet.com. Many thanks.

CONFERENCES AND CLASSES:

Writing Mom’s: How to do it all course taught by Natalie C. Markey $20.00

Plot, character arc, transitions, climax, revise, rewrite, make that deadline, blog, check social media sites, continued education, volunteer for local writing group, read critique partners manuscript, research agents/publishers, read books within your genre, read a craft book and network.  These are ALL things that go through writers’ minds on any give day. But what if you had to add: Make bottles, keep up with diaper/Gerber/ formula supplies, feed baby three times a day plus bottle feedings, playtime, bathe baby, wipe up thrown sweet potatoes, shower to get sweet potatoes out of your hair, more playtime, hope for a naptime (for baby, you must write,) schedule playdates, read to baby, and hope baby actually goes to bed at the designated time.
For many writers, this is reality. In fact, many full-time writers are made because of a child being born. Some amazing mothers write late at night, around their day job. However you do it, being a writing mom is a challenge but very doable and rewarding. Learn easy self study tactics, time management tips and suggestions from a ten-year freelance journalist, published author and speaker who also has a one-year-old daughter and a high maintenance dog. You can have it all without losing your mind.

Thriller Fest Writer’s Conference – July 11-14, 2012

This year, spotlight guests will include 2012 ThrillerMaster Jack Higgins, 2011 ThrillerMaster R.L. Stine, Lee Child, John Sandford, and Catherine Coulter, along with 2012 True Thriller Award Recipient Ann Rule,  2012 Silver Bullet Award recipient Richard North Patterson, and 2011 Silver Bullet Award recipient, Karin Slaughter.

REGISTER NOW! You won’t want to miss the most spectacular conference for thriller writers and thriller fans on the planet!

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests before you enter, and to copyright all your work.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

If you want more of me, you can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Linkedin

Read Full Post »

Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities Round Up #28

Posted in Classes, Competitions and Writing Opportunities, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 12, 2012| 1 Comment »

 

This weeks competitions that have caught my eye:

FICTION: Via First Writer

Elizabeth Simpson Smith Short Story Competition 
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   15th May 2012
Fees:   $20 for one entry. $15 for members.
Prizes:   $0 for first place. Apple iPad; $200; $100.
Details:   For short stories between 1,500 and 4,000 words.
Contact:   Elizabeth Simpson Smith Contest, Charlotte Writers’ Club, P.O. Box 220954, Charlotte, NC 28222
Country:   United States
Email:   contests@charlottewritersclub.org
Website:   http://www.charlottewritersclub.org/ess_short_story

Eighth International Short Story Contest 
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st April 2012
Fees:   Ł6.50 for one entry. ($9.75). Two for $8.63 / Ł5.75 each; three for $7.50 / Ł5.00 each; or five for $6.00 / Ł4.00 each.
Prizes:   Ł200 for first place. Also magazine publication and vouchers for subscription for the winner and ten Special Commendations.
Details:   For short stories up to 3,000 words. Enter online at http://www.firstwriter.com/competitions/short_story_contest/
Country:   United Kingdom; United States; Ireland; Canada; Australia – submissions accepted from anywhere!
Email:   support@firstwriter.com
Website:   http://www.firstwriter.com/competitions/short_story_contest/

Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   15th May 2012
Fees:   $15 for one entry. $20 if submitted after May 1, 2012.
Prizes:   $1,500 for first place. $500 x 2. Also publication.
Details:   For short stories up to 3,500 words.
Contact:   The Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition, P.O. Box 993, Key West, FL 33041
Country:   United States
Email:   shortstorykw@gmail.com
Website:   http://www.shortstorycompetition.com/Guidelines.php

Mad as a Hare
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st March 2012
Fees:   $0 for one entry.
Prizes:   $50 for first place. $25 second prize
Details:   Enter your fiction or non-fiction of up to 2500 words about personified animals. Free sign-up –a friendly, knowledgeable, and intensive online critique community for writers and poets–is necessary in order to post your entry. E-mail entries will not be accepted. See our website for full rules and guidelines.
Country:   United States
Website:   http://www.scribophile.com/contests/mad-as-a-hare-contest/

Sunpenny Young Writers Competition
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st March 2012
Fees:   £3 for one entry.
Prizes:   £50 for first place. £25.
Details:   For short stories up to 3,000 words by young writers up to 14.
Contact:   10 Aspen Close, Harriseahead, Staffordshire ST7 4HD
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   writers@sunpenny.com
Website:   http://www.sunpenny.com/competitions/2011/youngwriters2011.html

Segora Short Story 
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   31st May 2012
Fees:   £5.50 for one entry. £10.50 for 2.
Prizes:   £150 for first place. £50 and £30.
Details:   1,500 – 3,000 words Judge: winner of the inaugural competition in 2008 now has his first novel placed with an agent. The winning entry will be read at the first bilingual LitFest to take place in our village in SW france.
Contact:   Gordon Simms Le Moulin de Larche St Clementin 79150 Deux-Sevres France
Country:   France
Website:   http://www.poetryproseandplays.co.uk

American Short(er) Fiction Prize
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   1st May 2012
Fees:   $15 for one entry.
Prizes:   $500 for first place. $250. Also publication.
Details:   For short fiction up to 1,000 words.
Country:   United States
Email:   editors@americanshortfiction.org
Website:   http://www.americanshortfiction.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=18-short-shorts&cat

First Page Competition 2012
Category:   Fiction
Closes:   8th June 2012
Fees:   £6 for one entry. £10 for two.
Prizes:   £500 for first place. 2nd £100 and 3rd £50.
Details:   What are we looking for: the most gripping, read-on-able first page of up to 400 words. Any genre, but as always we’re looking for The Best First Page.
Contact:   2 Malt Kiln Road, Newbiggin, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 0TU
Country:   United Kingdom
Email:   editor@wordswithjam.co.uk
Website:   http://www.wordswithjam.co.uk/firstpagecompetition2012

ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA Via RWA

 *Open to published authors
**Open to published and unpublished authors

*2012 Published Maggie Award Contest
Georgia Romance Writers
Fee: $20.00
Deadline: May 1, 2012
Entry: novel-length romances with 2011 copyright.
Judges: Booksellers/Librarians.
FMI, visit http://www.georgiaromancewriters.org/the-maggies/.

**2012 Tara Contest
Sponsor: Tampa Area Romance Authors
Fee: $25.00 (Pay Pal accepted)
Electronic Deadline: May 1, 2012
Eligibility requirements: The TARA Contest is open to unpublished and published authors of novel-length fiction. The entry must be the author’s original work, unpublished and uncontracted as of the time of the contest deadline. No entry can have been previously published in any format. (on author’s website visible to the public, self-published, ebook, mass market, etc.)
Entry: All electronic. The first chapter, 4,000 words max (actual word count), including prologue, if applicable. *Word count will be verified. No part of a second or any additional chapters will be judged. End your entry on a hook, leaving your judges breathless with no more pages left to turn. If an entry finals, a synopsis of no more than 1,500 words is required to move on to the final round.
Judges: trained/experienced, published
Categories/Final Judges: Series Contemporary, Brenda Chin, Harlequin; Historical, Leah Hultenschmidt, Sourcebooks; Paranormal, Elizabeth Bistrow, New American Library; Single Title, Sue Grimshaw, Random House; Women’s Fiction, Lauren Plude, Grand Central; Romantic Suspense, Emilia Pisani, Pocket Books; Inspirational, Natalie Hanemann, Thomas Nelson
Top prize: TARA sterling silver pendant & certificate
FMI, http://www.tararwa.com or email Taracontest@gmail.com.

SCRIPT WRITING OPPORTUNITIES Via ISA:

ALCHEMY FILMWORKS SEEKS SCREENWRITER FOR DOCUMENTARY
Would you be outraged if your physician or health care provider intentionally failed to notify you that you had a terminal illness for four years? It is public record the medical professional did exactly that at the beginning of the AIDS pandemic. In the early 1980’s, 114 neonates, and an unknown number of adults, were given HIV infected transfusions at a major LA hospital. The problem first surfaced in 1983, but records clearly show notification to any of the families of those afflicted was deliberately withheld until 1987. I would like to team up with a skilled documentary filmmaker or writer to create an amazing film. Please write me, Alex Ghaffari, at ghaffari10@yahoo.com.

DIRECTOR SEEKS SCRIPTS FOR ENGLAND-BASED TELEVISION DRAMA
I’m currently looking for television scripts for television drama, in a similar vein as “The Shadow Line” and “Luther”. I’m interested in working with a writer who is willing to work on spec (as I will be) in order to get a project commissioned on a U.K based network. Initially I am interested in producing a 6 part mini series which can either be self-contained (as per “The Shadow Line”) or something with the potential to return with its characters for further episodes. I would be aiming at a post watershed audience for the 9pm – 10pm slot. It would need to be set in modern England day to keep production costs down. Whilst I cannot fund the development, I am happy to negotiate a deal that would see that would see the writer getting a fee that would reflect their period of speculation. Please do not submit whole scripts. Please send a short synopsis or the first 10 pages of a script. I may request the whole script if I feel yours is what I’m looking for. Please email tv@clockworkamoeba.com. For those of you interested in my background, I am a filmmaker that has been largely involved in creating productions which deliver far beyond the limits of their resources. In recent times I’ve built a reputation as a music video director but have worked on a range of film and television productions, in a number of cases as producer/director and have worked on feature script development with other producers.

SHORT SCRIPTS WANTED (CANADIAN WRITERS ONLY)
I am a established Montreal cinematographer/director with over 25 years experience looking to director my next short.  All genres are welcome. Script should be between 5 – 7 pages. For funding purposes, the writer must be Canadian. There is no financial compensation, but you will get sole writing credit. Please send a copy of your script to my assistant, Patrick Greatbatch, at greatbatchmtl@gmail.com.

SEEKING SITCOM WRITER WITH SALES AND CREDITS 
Shambala Entertainment is seeking collaborator to develop sitcom pilot that will be pitched and probably shot. Funny pros (with sitcom credits on IMDB) who know the sitcom craft needed. If we sell, appropriate writing rates will prevail. You must live in Hollywood area and have two to three days/nights available. Please send your experience and appropriate writing sample(s) to Todd Regenbogen at shambalaent@gmail.com. Thank you.

SEEKING LOW BUDGET FEATURE LENGTH  SCI-FI  SCREENPLAYS
Seeking low budget feature length sci-fi screenplays. Please send log-line only at this time. Send to praterpix@gmail.com. Visit producer Matt Prater’s IMDB Profile at http://pro.imdb.com/name/nm1056990/.

PERFORMANCE GROUP SEEKS SHORT FILM SCRIPTS 
Eurisko Performance Group (EPG) is seeking film script submissions of five to seven minutes in length. EPG is committed to producing a short film this fall as part of our “Pass it On” Project. Writers will be involved in all aspects of pre-production and filming. Our topic for this year is “Wrestling with False Gods.” It is at the writer’s discretion how to interpret this theme. EPG is committed to producing challenging and thought-provoking films. We value collaboration and passionate vision. Interested screen writers should submit scripts to Managing Director Michael Davis at euriskoperformancegroup@gmail.com for review. We look forward to reading all scripts that are submitted, and thank you for your interest in working with our company.

LOOKING FOR COMEDIC WRITER FOR COLLABORATION
Looking for a comedic writer to collaborate with on short films and webisodes. We are a small production company anxious to focus more on comedic content. Please send a copy of something recent you have written to us at redefiningfilms@gmail.com. This is not a paid gig. Thank you.

CAT AND WEASEL FILMS SEEKS SCREENPLAYS 
CAT AND WEASEL FILMS is looking for new scripts! We will option scripts to develop and produce in 2013. Scripts should be: 1.) Feature length 2.) Written for low-budget (minimal SFX, contemporary) 3.) At least in their 2nd draft 4.) Set in Europe 5.) Intelligent. We are open to ALL GENRES. Please include: 1.) A short bio of yourself. 2.) The script. 3.) A logline. And, optionally 4.) Anything you would like to add. Send to film@catandweasel.com. Thanks! Please let us know if you have any questions!

PRODUCTION CO. SEEKS ROM-COM &/OR DRAMA SCREENPLAYS
We are a media production company in Atlanta looking for completed feature length, high-concept scripts to produce. We are placing emphasis on ROMANTIC COMEDY AND/OR DRAMA. The ideal concept will have minimal locations and cast, a unique non-traditional storyline with a short but strong hook in the logline. Pay to be determined. Please NO ACTION, THRILLER, SCI-FI, ETC. Thank you for your submission. INSTRUCTIONS to SUBMIT: We pay attention to professional, carefully proof-read queries. *PLEASE READ CAREFULLY* (1) In SUBJECT line put ‘LOGLINE/QUERY’ – [TITLE]’ (2)Cut and Paste QUERY LETTER or SYNOPSIS ONLY into body of email at: SCRIPTS @WILDHUNDREDS.COM (3) Attach FULL script. Partial scripts are accepted however, decisions can only be made from reading the ENTIRE screenplay. Thank you.

WRITING CLASSES AND CONFERENCES

The Writer’s Workshop – How to Write a Novel Course
This course is designed for new writers who want to write a novel. You need absolutely no prior experience – just bring your imagination!
Starts: 24th March, 2012
Tutor: Your course tutor will be Jessica Ruston (left). Jessica is the prize-winning and bestselling author of Luxury and To Touch the Stars. She’s also a very experienced writing tutor and editor and loves working with first time writers.

Desert Dreams Writing Conference
Desert Dreams Writers’ Conference provides authors of all skill levels – from beginner to multi-published – with the tools necessary to take their writing to the next level. Sessions will include general writing, career development, genre-specific, agent/publisher spotlights, as well as an agent/editor panel. There will also be one-on-one appointments with editors or agents, a book signing, and keynote addresses. Check out our roster of acquiring editors and agents along with our keynote speakers and workshops.
Date: April 27th-29th, 2012

 

Please remember to check out legitimacy of all contests before you enter, and to copyright all your work.

Good luck and let me know how you get on.

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