Stage 32 & Catalyst Studios Unveil Script Development Program Finalists & Announce Berlinale MD Mariette Rissenbeek As A Mentor
19.01.2024 - 20:01
/ deadline.com
EXCLUSIVE: Industry training platform Stage 32 has revealed the 11 finalists selected for its inaugural Empowering Women Script Competition, running in collaboration with production company Catalyst Studios.
Beyond offering a competition platform, the initiative will also provide ongoing development support and mentorship to the female and non-binary finalists.
“It’s not just about finding the next great script. This program fosters the talents of promising artists and empowers their voices to change the world,” said Stage 32 Managing Director Amanda Toney.
The winning writer will receive a guaranteed $5,000 option for their script and is eligible for up to $3,000,000 in financing from Catalyst for production.
In addition to financial support, the Catalyst team will collaborate with the winning writer on development, while Stage 32 will provide educational support for script development.
The partners also announced that outgoing Berlinale Managing Director Mariette Rissenbeek has joined the program as a mentor for the winner.
Catalyst Studios was launched in 2022 as a joint venture between social entrepreneur Holly Levow and producer Paul Kampf of Equitas Entertainment, and Mark Pennell of Beacon Pictures, with a focus on emerging talent and diverse storytelling
“We are very excited about all the finalists and are looking forward to showcasing this incredible talent. It’s so important to share diverse perspectives and stories that have the power to create awareness on important issues and a shared understanding in our communities,” said Levow, who is president of the company.
The winners will be announced on February 16.
Finalists & Projects (Synopses provided by Stage 32 and Catalyst)
Backlog
Jacquelin Elyse