I thought I'd share with you a short note, sent to us by one of our favorite speakers, Ellen Sandler. Ellen was nominated for an Emmy for her work as Co-Executive Producer on the hit series, 'Everybody Loves Raymond'. She also wrote the 'gotta have it' bible for every aspiring sitcom writer, 'The TV Writers Workbook' (trust me, this book will save you years of learning the hard way). Ellen will once again be joining us for this year's pitchfest to teach a free class with her colleague , Kathie Fong Yoneda (former Disney Exec & Author of 'The Script Selling Game') called 'Write It, Pitch It, Work It - Lessons from the Pros on Writing for Television.' (Saturday, June 21st 9am-10:30am in the Sunset Ballroom). Everyone is welcome to attend this free class. Just register at www.pitchfest.com for details.
Ellen's note follows:
Hi Signe,
I wanted to let you know that my webisode project that came to me through a pitch at last year's PitchFest has shifted into high gear. The two young writers have completed six episodes under my supervision and this week I put together a writing room with 8 experienced young writers to work on getting these scripts table ready. I have partnered with a producer -- he's experienced in directing and producing commercials for Olgilvy & Mathers -- and we are underway. Casting is nearly done. We plan to shoot later this month. This has been a thrilling creative experience for all of us and it all started at your fabulous Great American PitchFest. I thought you'd like to know.
How is this year's Pitch Fest shaping up? I hope you'll include me in your plans. Look how well that turned out. Please feel free to publicize that success story if you'd like, as encouragement for other pitchers and pitchees.
Best,
Ellen
Congratulations, Ellen! - And thanks for letting us know. I'm looking forward to that champagne! - Signe
