Introduction to Screenwriting » The Colonial Theatre

Introduction to Screenwriting

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The first of 12 classes begins on September 16, 2026

About

Wednesdays, 6:00–8:00 p.m. in the Garden Suite

12 Weeks: Sept. 16–Dec. 16 

(no class Oct. 14 or Nov. 25)

Maximum Enrollment: 9

Teacher: Jeff Bender, M.F.A. Columbia University, Teacher at Ursinus College

ABOUT THE CLASS

Introduction to Screenwriting guides writers through the process of outlining and writing an original screenplay. Students will practice how to structure a story around complex characters, format writing for the movies, and write simple yet effective dialogue. Class time will be spent reviewing student outlines, watching and analyzing scenes, and “table-reading” student scripts. No formal experience necessary, though writing for other genres is a plus.

Interested students should send the following to jb2424@gmail.com:

  •   Work sample (500–1000 words) of any genre.
  •   Paragraph (150–200 words) about their background and reasons for taking the class.

Accepted applicants will be invited to register online.

PRICING

Early Bird – $500 before Aug. 26

Regular – $550 before Sept. 9

 Last Minute – $600 by Sept. 23

ABOUT THE PROFESSOR

Jeff Bender is a screen- and comedy-writer from Philadelphia. He has an MFA from Columbia University, and his screenwriting has earned honors from the Austin Film Festival, PAGE International, the Cambridge Script Festival, the Rhode Island International Film Festival, and the Sedona Film Festival. His writing has appeared in McSweeney’s, Electric Literature, The Iowa Review, Fence, The Hard Times, Sports Riot, and Reader’s Digest. He teaches screenwriting at Ursinus College and just joined the writing staff of a half-hour comedy.

 

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