Writing Program FAQ’s
Q: How do I contact Act One?
A: Act One can be reached at 2690 N. Beachwood Dr., Hollywood, CA 90068. You can also email us at information@actoneprogram.com or call us at (323) 464-0815.
Q: What is the deadline for the program?
A: The Regular Application deadline is April 15, 2012. But we have extended it to April 30, 2012. Students can send in their application any time before then and find out their status within 30 days of submission.
Q: What kind of applicants are you looking for?
A: We’re looking for talented writers who love film and TV and are serious about their Christian faith.
Q: What can I expect to accomplish in the Writing Workshop?
A: The Writing Workshop is a series of intensive lectures and workshops focused on the craft of screenwriting, coupled with rigorous writing exercises and individualized weekly feedback on your work from a Hollywood professional. Curriculum includes classes and assignments on structure, character, dialogue, the spiritual journey of a writer, screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and much more!
Q: How much writing experience do Act One students typically have?
A: Our students range from beginners with no experience to working screenwriters. According to the surveys we conduct at the completion of each program, students of all experience levels find the program challenging and valuable.
Q: How old are most Act One students?
A: Act One students are typically between 22 and 45.
Q: What will the Act One Retreat schedule look like?
A: Students will attend class, up to ten hours a day each day, with a few hours of quiet time for worship and reflection scheduled intermittently. A detailed itinerary will be provided on the first day. Due to the intense schedule, students should completely clear their schedules from any obligations for the entire week.
Q: What will the schedule of the Writing Workshop be?
A: Students will work on assignments throughout the week and meet for class on Saturdays. Additional class sessions may be scheduled for the TV Track and for writing group feedback in the evenings during the week. It is possible to work full time during the Writing Workshop, but expect to spend up to 20 hours per week on writing assignments.
Q: What will the schedules of the Mentoring Programs and TV Track be?
A: The mentor will set the exact dates and times of the mentorship based on what works for everyone involved, but expect to meet at least twice a month for five months each mentorship, in addition to writing up to 20 hours per week. TV Track usually meets in the evenings over a period of four to five months. More schedules and information will be provided to students enrolled in the Writing Workshop.
Q: Do I need to live in Los Angeles to take the Writing Workshop or Certificate?
A: Although students do not need to live in the LA area for the online version of the Workshop or Certificate, it is highly recommended and often necessary to live in LA to take part in all other Act One programs. Workshop participants need to be in LA for the 9 Saturdays class is in session, in addition to the weekly meetings with small group leaders. An online version of the Feature Track Workshop and Certificate is offered, but if it’s at all possible to spend the summer in LA, it is preferable. It is required for TV Track students to be based in LA to take the course. Many out-of-town students plan to transition to LA upon acceptance into the program.
Q: How is Act One funded?
A: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Act One is funded primarily through grants and donations. The instructional fees cover only a portion of the cost of taking on a new student. Given the caliber and direct-from-the studio-lot experience of our faculty, many graduate programs at top universities do not compare to the curriculum we offer.
Q: What additional costs should I anticipate during the Writing Certificate?
A: All meals and housing are included for the Act One Retreat. Out-of-town students will need to arrange for transportation to and from the retreat center. Depending on travel schedules, additional nights on either end of the retreat may be arranged with a local hotel at an extra cost. Some optional field trips to areas of interest may be offered, and admission prices to events may apply as necessary. All other programs are designed to be offered to commuters living in LA, and classes will be primarily held on evenings and weekends.
Q: Why do you need my resume/future plans/etc.?
A: Act One’s primary focus is training students who are seeking careers in the mainstream entertainment industry and/or the production of independent films targeted at mainstream audiences. Because classes are limited in size, knowing your career journey and future plans helps us to choose applicants who will most benefit from our focus. (Please note that Act One does not discriminate based on Christian denomination, gender, race/ethnicity, age, or disability.)
Q: Does Act One provide financial aid/ scholarships?
A: Partial financial aid may be available for those with a genuine need. (“Genuine need” implies that participation in the program is contingent upon financial aid.) Please see Tuition & Financial Aid for more information.
Q: When is tuition due?
A: A deposit is required upon acceptance into the program to secure your spot. After that, the remaining payments can be broken down into monthly installments for the duration of your program.
