Summary
Have you ever wanted to create and write your own TV show that you also star in?
Well, that's exactly what writer/actor/producer John Lehr did not just once but twice and now Stage 32 has brought John in to show you how it's done.
In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, you’ll learn how you can create your own star-making television show, how to pitch it, and what it’s like to produce a television series that you also write and play the lead in.
John Lehr is an actor, writer and comedian who has sold multiple shows he created to major streaming platforms and networks, including QUICK DRAW on Hulu, 10 ITEMS OR LESS on TBS, and JAILBAIT for Crackle. John is also the original Geico Caveman and has hosted several network TV shows.
John believes that knowledge is power and that you too can launch your career as a writer, producer and actor by creating and selling your own television show. He’ll show you what pitfalls and roadblocks to avoid while making your project one that buyers love.
John isn't alone. FLEABAG’S Phoebe Waller-Bridge and CHEWING GUM’s Michaela Cole both began their careers more focused on acting before creating, writing and starring in shows that became must-watch television.
This webinar covers the whole process including what makes a good show premise, how to pitch your show successfully once you're in the room, and how to even get those elusive pitch meetings.
If you’ve been waiting for a star-making role, this webinar will show you how to stop waiting and take control of your own career today.
What You'll Learn
Creating your own acting vehicle
- Where to start
- Deciding the best vehicle for you
- Get out of your head- it does happen
- Understanding your greatest challenges
- Understanding your superpower
The Idea
- Brutal truth — the idea is not the most important element
- Case Studies- Coming up with the ideas for Getting 10 Items and Quickdraw as an acting vehicle
- Utilizing the process of the pitch to develop the idea.
- Don’t be precious. This is collaborative.
Demo reel
- Utilizing a demo reel shoot to develop your characters and concept
- A demo reel is not a pilot!
- Do’s and don’ts of your demo reel: ideal running time, whether to send in advance or play in the room
- The importance of tone
The pitch
- Keeping it visual
- What to expect in the room
- The key to a successful pitch— Rehearsal!
- What message am I trying to send?
The process
- What happens if they buy it in the room? Or not?
- What is a development deal?
- What kind of contract to expect?
- What is the Timeline to the prize—a pilot pickup?
How the hell do I get into the room in the first place?
- Using your demo reel as a vehicle
- How to employ Packaging
- How is a script helpful? And when is it not?
- Remember: they want YOU
Q&A with John
Who Should Attend
All levels of directors (advanced, intermediate and beginner) looking to create your own star-making television show
All levels of writers (advanced, intermediate and beginner) looking to write your own star-making television show
Producers looking to produce your own star-making television show
Actors looking to learn how to make a star-making television show.
Executive
John Lehr is the creator and star of 10 ITEMS OR LESS on TBS, JAILBAIT on Sony/Crackle, and QUICKDRAW on Hulu. He has created and produced pilots for Fox, TBS, and Comedy Central and had script and development deals with NBC, HBO, MTV, Sony, BBC, and more.
John has appeared in numerous television series, including FRIENDS, and was a series regular on JESSE, both for Warner Brothers/NBC. His feature film roles include THE SWEETEST THING, three Noah Baumbach films, KICKING AND SCREAMING, MR. JEALOUSY, and HIGHBALL.
Credits
