Introduce Yourself : Using COVID sheltering in place to write screenplays and expand my skills on Stage 32 by Ricki Linksman

To members new and old, reflecting on the last 5 months of sheltering in place, I am grateful I discovered Stage 32. I often said that if I were to go for my Ph.D. I'd want to study screenwriting! Stage 32 has allowed me to have that experience from home, taking numerous webinars, classes, and writing labs that expanded my skills. It also opened me up to life beyond screenwriting, which includes what one does to get a script to be made: learning and practicing pitching through Thurs. pitch practices, writing log lines, writing pitches of various lengths, making pitch decks, how to get connected to execs and studios, and having script consultations with professionals. Looking back, I have improved 3 of my feature film screenplays and starting on 2 more, wrote 2 TV pilots, and am drafting 2 more, and working on a limited TV series. The staff here is wonderful, supportive, and always find time to guide us, such as R.B. Botto, Jason Mirch, Nick Assunto, Amanda, and Brooklyn. They also supported me on a personal level through a painful time of caring for my father and his ultimate passing. If new, you are in for a real treat here. If you are a Stage 32 veteran, I want to thank each of you for your always helpful support in this great community.