Outfest, Netflix expands screenwriting workshop to support LGBTQIA + creatives

Exclusive: This year Outfest will expand the Screenwriting Lab, in collaboration with Netflix.

The Outfest Screenwriting Lab was founded in 1997 as a screenwriting competition and has since become the cornerstone of the organization’s creative development and educational programming. This year will provide 10 LGBTQIA + screenwriters with one-on-one mentorship from industry-leading showers, executives and writers offering professional development, script support and understanding of the latest industry trends, supported by eight writers in 2021.

The one-week intensive workshop will take place practically in October and will therefore be available to storytellers from all over the world, with registrations open today. Outfest is expanding access to its Netflix-supported show by waiving entry fees for all nominees and awarding grants to help each selected screenwriter financially.

Netflix’s partnership with Outfest for its Screenwriting Lab is part of its Creative Capital Fund, an effort to help create more opportunities beyond the camera for lesser-known actors in the television and film industry. Jacqueline Moore Showcases (dear whites), Alvaro Rodriguez (six hands), screenplay by Mika (Lady Americaand Miko Alan (The long way homeMentors will be joined by writers Eduardo Cisneros, Chuck Hayward and MW Wilson, executives Manny Jaquez, Bianca Quesada, David Ruby, Andrew Wang and Julie Waters, as well as industry representatives Biz Hurst, Clifford Murry, Cora Olson and Martin To. .

“Everyone knows that a great movie, a great series, a great story begins with a script. To commemorate the 25th anniversary, the Screenwriting Lab was Outfest’s first attack outside of our festival, ”said Damien S., CEO of Outfest. Navarrese. “The expanded partnership with Netflix allows us to further expand the reach and impact of this announced show.

“Working with Netflix to provide greater financial assistance to creators, whether it’s removing the financial barrier or providing grants to each of our writers, helps us carry out our Outfest mission to empower LGBTQIA + storytellers.” Farida Gbadamos. “We are thrilled to continue to create the next generation of Hollywood storytellers.”

Outfest, one of the world’s only LGBTQIA + organizations for arts, media and entertainment, turns 40. The nonprofit Film Festival’s offering programs and digital channels include Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ Film Festival, Outfest Fusion QTBIPOC Film Festival, and OutMuseum. Its training and mentoring programs and courses also include Outfest InFusion Studio Days, Fusion Workshops, OutSet Young Filmmakers Project, and Outfest Anthony Meindl Trans Acting Fellowship. More information on how to apply for the Outfest Screenwriting Lab can be found here.