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2008 Television & Film Workshop...

In the last four years, the Institute of American Indian Arts has worked in partnership with the Disney • ABC Television Group to bring one of the most unique programs to American Indians who are passionate about the entertainment industry. Now entering its fifth year, the IAIA Television & Film Summer Workshop will be one of the most demanding, if not rewarding experiences for students accepted into the program! For those who successfully complete the six-week program, it is an opportunity to jump-start your career in Hollywood and get yourself noticed! In addition, students will receive academic credit upon completion of their respecive workshops.

"This summer workshop, held on the IAIA campus, was designed to assist novice and experienced Native American screenwriters, filmmakers, directors and actors. The program also brings acclaimed executives, producers, screenwriters, directors and actors, both Native and non-Native, from the mainstream television and film world to work individually and collectively with the selected students."

This year, the workshop will be divided into two separate tracks, with cross-collaboration between the Writers Workshop and the Production Workshop. Writers will provide a short script for each of the production students in addition to the development and writing of a "spec" script for the writing track. Production students will focus on production techniques including camera, sound, lighting and all aspects of post-production. The workshop will be intensive and demanding, but the rewards will last forever!

Click the logo below to learn about the talent development program at Disney • ABC Television Group...

Are you ready to apply?

To apply to the 2008 IAIA Television & Film Summer Workshop is a three step process. It is important to know that all three steps must be completed in order for your application to be considered for final review. You are highly encouraged to call Marcella Ernest prior to the application process so we may stay in touch with you along the way: 505-424-5796.

Please take a moment to famliarize yourself with each step before proceeding. All applications must be completed by March 24th, 2008.

Step one:

IAIA's online form which asks for some general information about yourself. Please be sure to check the Film & Television box at the end of the form.

Start Step #1...

Step two:

You will download the PDF files depending upon your track of interest where you will elaborate on your background and interest in attending the program.

Start Step #2...

Step three:

You will submit samples of your work for the workshop using the checklist and address provided on this form.

Get the checklist!

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Frequently asked questions:

Is this workshop for me?
Answer: The workshop's main goals are to provide outreach and training to those who are passionate about writing for television and film as well as producing narrative and non-narrative work. Our goal is to annually identify those who share this passion and are considering a career as writers and producers both in Hollywood and beyond.

• How much does the workshop cost?
Answer: The IAIA/ABC•Disney workshop basic costs are paid for you! This includes tuition, room and board at the Institute in Santa Fe during the six-week program. Costs not covered are: transportation to Santa Fe, your incidentals, books and other fees not associated with the workshop. IAIA will not reimburse any of these fees or costs, nor may you use any of the covered fees towards similar fees outside of the IAIA campus.

• I would like to know if I can bring along family members?
Answer: in short, no. The workshop does not provide assistance, housing nor childcare for anyone else but to the individual accepted to the program. Understand that this workshop will be an intensive and immersive program and all who attend will be expected to comply and attend all required classes, trainings and lectures, not to mention perform the work associated with the curriculum, which include day and evening events.

• Will I receive academic credit for attending the workshop?
Answer: Yes. This year the workshop has been folded into the academic curriculum of IAIA's New Media Arts Program. Students who successfully complete the workshop will be granted six credits from the Institute of American Indian Arts which are transferable to other academic institutions as well as a Certificate of Completion.

• Who is eligible to apply?
Answer: The underlying mission of this program between our collaborators as well as the Institute of American Indian Arts is to reach our constituency within the Native American population and provide them with this uniquely targeted opportunity. Following federally allowed guidelines towards Native American preference, the workshop encourages enrolled applicants from either state and/or federally recognized tribes to apply.

• What will I learn?
Answer: Depending upon your chosen track, you will learn how to write for television and film, how to structure a story for the screen as well as learning the subtleties of the "pitch". In the production track, students will learn the production process from pre-production to post-production methodology and practical hands-on training with the goal of sophisticated use and understanding of our equipment towards telling a story. In the last year, we have added over $150,000.00 in new equipment, rivaling any film program of its kind.

• This sounds great! I want to write my own script or shoot my own film.
Answer: This year both tracks, writing and producing will follow a strict process towards achieving our intended goals. Writers accepted into the program will provide the script for the producer's track to shoot. Why? Because our underlying intentions are to teach the process, not the end product. Writers will work on a spec script based upon an existing show on the ABC network.

• Can I apply to both tracks?
No. You must pick one to apply to.