A writing contest is inviting high school students to put their storytelling, writing and communication skills to the test. Oklahoma City University is hosting the English and Film Pitch Contest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 24 in the Norick Art Center, 1608 NW 26th St.
Designed for students interested in writing literature, film, media and narrative arts, the event offers young creators a platform to develop original ideas and present them to industry professionals. Participants can bring any kind of writing project including short story drafts, creative prose, film concepts or screenplays. A short workshop will open the event to learn publishing and pitching strategies before the contestants pitch directly to a panel of judges.
Participation is free with prior registration at okcu.edu/english-film-pitch. Prizes will be awarded for first through third place, and a free pizza lunch will be served to all participants.
“We created this contest because high school students have extraordinary stories to tell, but they don't always know where to take them next,” said Sarah Sims, English professor in OCU’s Petree College of Arts & Sciences and one of the organizers of the contest. “Every great film or novel starts with a single spark, and we want to give high schoolers the platform and confidence to share theirs.”
No prior film or writing experience is required to participate. Students only need to bring their original ideas and creative energy.
Judges
- Lance McDaniel: CEO of McDaniel Entertainment and acclaimed filmmaker
- James Cooper: Oklahoma City councilman and author of the #1 Oklahoma bestseller “Moonlit Massacre”
- Rob Roensch: English professor, author and winner of the International Scott Prize for Short Stories
Contest criteria
- Originality and creativity: uniqueness and novelty of the core concept
- Storytelling and concept: narrative structure and thematic clarity
- Pitch and communication: delivery, enthusiasm and clarity of the presentation
- Audience impact: overall impression and engagement factor
For more information about the English and Film Pitch Contest, contact Janelle Warlick at [email protected].
