Learn the art of visual storytelling in this hands-on screenwriting workshop focused on short films.
Overview
Presented in partnership with the National Capital Scriptwriting Institute, this intensive workshop guides emerging writers through the process of creating a complete short film script (2–10 pages). In a supportive small-class environment, participants will develop an original idea and produce not only a finished script, but also key accompanying materials, including a logline, character bios, synopsis, mood boards and a rough pitch. These deliverables provide a strong foundation for future work in production planning, casting, and pitch deck preparation, which will be explored in upcoming advanced classes.
Target Audience
This course is designed for new writers or emerging writers. New ideas are best; projects already in development or passion projects from years ago/ongoing might be best left for after you have learned the process of critique and editing.
Outline
Session 1: Introduction to Screenwriting: Foundations of Short Film Writing.
Session 2: Creating Character & Structure: Project Parameters; Some “Rules” and Secrets.
Session 3: Act Structure, Beats, Scenes and Sequences: Making the Story Fit the Medium Without Sacrifice.
Session 4: Finishing the Short: Final Polishing & Sharing
Dates
Session 1: Thursday April 9th, 6pm – 9pm
Session 2: Thursday April 16th, 6pm – 9pm
Session 3: Thursday April 23rd, 6pm – 9pm
Session 4: Thursday April 30th, 6pm – 9pm
Instructor
Teri Loretto
Teri Loretto is an award-winning actress, writer, and director based in Ottawa. She holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s Degree from the University of Ottawa and has built a diverse career in stage performance, production management, film, and broadcasting.
For nearly twenty years, she worked with CBC Ottawa as a producer, writer, presenter, and host. She has also appeared in feature films, performed as a professional musician, and toured nationally as a children’s entertainer. Her voice can be heard in animated series, commercials, and documentaries.
A former Artist in Residence with the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity, Teri now serves as Vice President of ACTRA Ottawa. She previously coordinated the graduate Scriptwriting program at Algonquin College and continues to champion the growth of Ottawa’s screenwriting community. She is a member of EQUITY, ACTRA, and the Playwrights Guild of Canada.
About National Capital Scriptwriting Institute (NCSI)
Based in Ottawa, the National Capital Scriptwriting Institute (NCSI) is a welcoming and forward-thinking educational hub dedicated to the craft of scriptwriting across disciplines. Grounded in the core principles of storytelling, NCSI offers comprehensive training in the art and technique of writing for a wide range of platforms—including screen, stage, audio, interactive media, and emerging digital formats.
Accessibility
All doors at DARC have accessibility buttons to press for automatic entry. DARC is located on the main floor (one story above ground) of the Arts Court building. DARC’s main entrance is located at 67 Nicholas Street which is fully wheelchair accessible. Alternate wheelchair-accessible entry is available through 2 Daly Ave at the Arts Court main entrance or the Ottawa Art Gallery. Elevator access is available from 9AM – 11PM.
DARC staff are available and happy to assist with all inquiries and requests regarding physical access.
We also welcome inquiries, feedback, and resources regarding accessibility and accessibility improvement by phone (613.238.7648 x. 6) or by email at access@digitalartsresourcecentre.ca.
Visit https://digitalartsresourcecentre.ca/access/ for information on how to get to DARC, language barriers, fragrance policy, and access to programming.
Cancellation Policy
DARC is unable to guarantee refunds if a cancellation request is made less than five business days before a workshop. DARC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule courses if necessary and will refund the registration fee to participants if a workshop is cancelled or if a participant is unable to attend a rescheduled workshop. Workshop fees are non-transferable.
To ensure a dynamic and engaging learning experience a workshop must be at least half full to be offered.