A Skills Development Opportunity for Underrepresented Writers
Animation Ireland is pleased to support “An Introduction to Writing for Children’s Animation In Ireland”; a course hosted by Animation Skillnet, in collaboration with Screen Skillnet, Screen Ireland, Cartoon Saloon, Brown Bag Films and 9 Story Media Group. This upskilling opportunity is co-funded through the BAI Sectoral Learning and Development Fund.
We are committed to removing barriers of entry to the industry, opening up opportunities for progression, and encouraging a more diverse and inclusive industry culture. With this in mind, we would specifically like to invite individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to apply for this course. Previous experience writing for children’s TV is not a requirement.
In this six-week course we will explore the world of writing scripts for children’s television animation. From pitching a story idea, to elaborating an outline and crafting multiple drafts, we’ll learn how to receive notes, squeeze in that extra giggle, and navigate the logistics of compliance.
Through a mix of online workshops and assignments, the course aims to encourage, support and prepare new writers who want to write for children’s animation (from preschool up).
COURSE CONTENT:
- An overview of the scripting process from pitch to final production script.
- Basic skills and techniques in writing premises, outlines and scene by scenes.
- Writing dialogue and scenes.
- Completing a first draft.
- Familiarity with scripting formats.
- Familiarity with S&P (Standards and Practice)
- Facilitated Q & A sessions with visiting industry professionals
Classes will be practice-based meaning participants will have the opportunity to develop and evolve an idea over the span of the course. This will incorporate peer-review and feedback so participants can experience the editing process. There will also be individual tutoring sessions to discuss notes and feedback.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of the course, each participant will have:
- Generated pitches and outlines.
- Written a short animation script from an outline.
- Revised and edited based on notes and feedback received.
PARTICIPANT PROFILE:
This course is aimed at new and diverse writers with a specific interest in writing for children’s television animation. No previous experience in either animation or writing for television is necessary. We encourage applications from writers currently under-represented in TV – including (but not limited to) women, disabled writers, ethnically diverse writers, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Please note that applicants must have a current, valid address in the Republic of Ireland in order to take part in this course.
TUTOR INFO:
Dee Roycroft is a writer and script editor currently writing on new projects for both Cartoon Saloon and Daily Madness. Recent work includes Ollie for Ink & Light and Jessy and Nessy for Amazon Studios. Over the past 8 years, Dee has worked on productions for many companies and broadcasters including RTÉ, BBC, CBBC, Telegael, Fíbín, SLR Australia and TG4. She has co-ordinated Fair City’s New Writers’ programme, mentored on initiatives with Galway Film Centre and the WGI, and taught short courses in the Irish Writers Centre and RTÉ.
DATES & TIMES:
6 Tuesday evenings from 6.30pm-8.30pm; March 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, April 5th.
1 of the following Thursday evenings from 6.30pm-8.30pm (individual sessions); March 10th, March 24th, March 31st.
VENUE:
Online via Zoom
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Applicants should submit a personal statement of intent and a short sample of their writing.
- The personal statement of intent is an opportunity for applicants to share their story, tell us why they are the right person for this course and to provide context as to how voices such as their own are currently being underrepresented in the mainstream animation industry. (Max 400 words)
- The writing sample should be a piece that you think best represents your writing. Please submit only ONE of the following:
- A short original script extract for film, tv or theatre. Please indicate on the cover page which medium it is intended for (max 5 pages)
- A short pitch/outline for film, tv or theatre. Please indicate on the cover page which medium it is intended for (max 1 page)
- A poem (max 1 page)
- A short story (max 2 pages)
- An episode outline originated by you (max 1 page)
- An episode outline originated by you from an existing kids series (eg Bluey, Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol etc) (max 1 page)
- A spec script originated by you from an existing kids series (eg Bluey, Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol etc) (max 5 pages)
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12pm on Friday 11th of February
“Cartoon Saloon are delighted to be a part of this new and exciting writing opportunity! We want to encourage the storytellers out there to apply, learn everything that the very talented Dee Roycroft has to teach and possibly grow to tell their own distinct stories through the powerful medium of animation. We hope this pilot programme will be the first of many Cartoon Saloon partnerships to intentionally promote diverse and inclusive pathways into animation.”
Catherine Roycroft, Cartoon Saloon
“As creators and producers of children’s content, Brown Bag Films and 9 Story have an important responsibility. Our shows are watched by millions of kids around the world and the imperative to tell diverse and authentic stories has never been greater. Our animated series celebrate diverse characters that represent the experiences of young viewers in Ireland and around the world. With this course we are excited to welcome new voices that will continue to expand our storytelling perspectives.”
Jennie Stacey, VP, Development & Production, 9 Story Media Group/Brown Bag Films