B.C. storytellers will have an opportunity to get a helping hand breaking into the screen industry.

A number of B.C. media organizations have teamed up with Netflix to launch the Pacific Screenwriting Program.

Netflix, Creative BC, and the Canadian Media Producers Association, with guidance from the Writers Guild of Canada, are collaborating on this new initiative that will offer intensive training to B.C. screenwriters. Omnifilm Entertainment principal and executive producer Brian Hamilton—who serves on the Canadian Media Producers Association B.C. branch council and whose production credits include MECH-X4, Jade Fever, and Robson Arms—will chair the program.

The program's Scripted Series Lab is a full-time, 14-week professional development course that will begin in 2019 to train up to six B.C.–based screenwriters and help them to improve their craft and skills, provide them with understanding business aspects of B.C.'s TV industry, and prepare them for an entry-level position on a series. The lab will combine industry storyroom experience with mentorship.

The first program will run from January 7 to April 12. Applications for the Scripted Series Lab are being accepted and the deadline is September 21. The program costs $1,500 (with an application fee of $25).

An information session that will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. tonight (August 8) is at capacity but RSVPs are being accepted for a waitlist.

A second information night will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on September 6 (address to be determined).

Full details are available at the Pacific Screenwriting Program website.