Fall Classes for Adults (16+)

* (NEW!) Stand Up Comedy Writing Workshop * (NEW!) Voice Acting II *
* Improv Sampler * Improv 1 * Improv II: Student Showcase *
* (NEW!) Improv III: The Harold * Screenwriting I * Screenwriting II *
* Screenwriters Lab – Table Read * Screenwriter’s Lab – Virtual Only *
* Development Lab 1 * (NEW!) Development Lab 2 *

Stand-Up Comedy Writing Workshop (16+)

Every great set starts with a great joke. In this focused writing class, students will dive deep into the fundamentals of stand-up comedy writing. Through exercises and practice students will learn how to generate material from their own lives and observations, sharpen their comedic voice, and build strong setups and punchlines. We’ll explore different types of joke structure, timing on the page, tags, callbacks, and how to edit for maximum laugh impact.

This class is ideal for beginners looking to find their funny or experienced performers looking to sharpen their material before taking the stage. While there is no performance component, students will have the opportunity to share jokes aloud, test material in a supportive setting. In our Winter Session Montclair Film will be running our Stand-Up Comedy Performance Workshop for those who wish to continue to work on their material. (Class size: 7 – 10)

“Instructor was awesome, and I feel like I learned a lot about how to improve my craft” – Stand-Up Comedy Student

Voice Acting II (16+)

Ready to level up your voice acting skills? In this advanced course, students will build on the foundations from Voiceover 1 while diving deeper into character development, script interpretation, and performance versatility. You’ll learn how to respond to direction, adjust your reads on the fly, and identify your personal strengths and areas for growth. Through challenging scripts and guided studio work, you’ll begin to trust your instincts and make better choices that bring characters to life. Whether you’re refining a commercial read or exploring a complex animated role, this class will sharpen your craft and expand your range. (Class Size 6 – 8)

Improv One Class Sampler (16+)

Curious about improv? Join our one-day Improv Sampler to experience the fundamentals of spontaneous creativity! Through fun games and exercises, you’ll learn
to listen, agree, and collaborate with your fellow participants. No experience needed—just come with an open mind and a desire to have fun! Our supportive
instructor will guide you as you create characters, build scenes, and explore your creativity in a safe and friendly environment. It’s a perfect opportunity to dip your toes into the world of improv before committing to a class. (Class size: 8 – 12)

“This class was great! It was fun, comprehensive and incredibly loose. Luke is an incredible instructor. I’ll definitely be back!” -Adult Improv Student

Improv 1 (16+)

The fundamentals of improvisation are the fundamentals of life. Listening, agreeing, forwarding action, taking care of your partner and so much more! You’ll be introduced to those lessons as you play games as well as create characters and scenes using a variety of improv and creativity exercises. You can’t do anything wrong, no experience necessary! Number one rule is to have fun! (Class size: 8 – 10)

“Concise, thoughtful, and inviting, this has to be one of the most valuable classes I have taken!” Sean, Improv 1 Student

Improv II: Showcase (16+)

Improv II builds on the fundamentals in Improv 1, focusing more on scene work, theatrical performance, and longer-form games. This class continues to encourage
honest, grounded scene work while introducing new acting, clowning, and improvisational techniques. This is an expansion of our level 1 Improv and includes a
live performance for family and friends on the last day of the class. The number one rule, as always, is to have fun! Previous improv experience required.
This class ends in a live performance for your family + friends! (Class size: 8 – 10)

Improv III: The Harold (16+)

In this class, students will dive into the world of long-form improvisation through the classic structure known as The Harold. A beloved format that has been a foundation of improvisational comedy for over 80 years. Originally developed by improv pioneers, The Harold gives performers a framework to build an entire show– complete with recurring characters, themes, and storylines– out of nothing but a simple prompt. Students will explore how to create dynamic scenes, heighten comedic ideas, and build ensemble trust, all while developing their own unique voice and style within the format. Improv 1 and 2 required. This class ends in a live performance for your family, friends, and is open to the community to attend! (Class size: 10-12)

“This class was great! It was fun, comprehensive and incredibly loose. Luke is an incredible instructor and channels the best out of us week after week. I’ll definitely be back!” Andy, Improv II student

Screenwriting 1 (16+)

Ever wonder what it takes to transform your ideas into captivating screenplays? Join our screenwriting course and delve into the art of crafting compelling stories. Explore the fundamentals—from format to techniques and story structure—while writing your own screenplay. Uncover the magic behind successful screenplays, drawing inspiration to shape your narratives for film and television. Gain valuable feedback from both peers and your instructor as you bring your ideas to life on the page. No prior screenwriting experience is necessary; this course is tailored to establish a solid foundation for aspiring screenwriters. In a small class of 7-10, embark on a journey to turn your storytelling dreams into reality. Ready to unleash your creativity for the big screen? (Class Size: 7 – 10)

“Extremely well organized and practical. Best screenwriting class I have ever taken.” Screenwriting – Adult Student

Screenwriting II (16+)

Ready to take your screenwriting skills to the next level? In Screenwriting II, you’ll refine your craft and delve deeper into advanced storytelling techniques. This course builds on the fundamentals learned in Screenwriting 1, focusing on character development, dialogue, subtext, and advanced plot structures.
Engage in in-depth analysis of professional screenplays to uncover the intricacies of successful screenwriting. Participate in collaborative workshops where you’ll receive and provide constructive feedback, honing your ability to critique and improve your work and that of your peers. (Class Size: 7 – 10)

“This medium level in-person class with John was perfect. He is constructive in his critiques and very encouraging. ” – Screenwriting II Student

Screenwriters Lab: With Actor Table Read (16+)

Application Only / Hybrid
Ready to dig deeper into your screenplay? Screenwriters Lab is designed for committed writers who are serious about writing and improving their scripts, whether they’re just beginning or already in progress. In each session, you’ll share portions of your screenplay and receive insightful feedback from peers and expert guidance from our instructor. This lab provides structure, accountability, and a supportive environment to help you shape, edit, and refine a polished script, preparing you for future production, film festivals, or personal creative goals. This Fall Screenwriter’s lab will include an in-person final class where local actors will perform a table read of student screenplays. Invite your family and friends for this live performance! (Up to 12 pages from each screenplay can be performed.) Screenwriting I + 2 recommended. (Class size 6-8)

“Screenwriter’s Lab is the highlight of my week – I always look forward to it. ” Screenwriter’s Lab student

Screenwriters Lab – Virtual Only (16+)

Application Only / Hybrid
Ready to dig deeper into your screenplay? Screenwriters Lab is designed for committed writers who are serious about writing and improving their scripts, whether they’re just beginning or already in progress. In each session, you’ll share portions of your screenplay and receive insightful feedback from peers and expert guidance from our instructor. This lab provides structure, accountability, and a supportive environment to help you shape, edit, and refine a polished script, preparing you for future production, film festivals, or personal creative goals. This version of Lab does not include a table read. Screenwriting I + 2 or equivalent required. (Class size 6-8)

 

Development Lab 1

You’ve written your script or you have a killer idea, now what?!? Unlock the path to bringing your ideas/screenplays from the page to the producer’s table in this immersive two-part seminar on creative development in the film and television industry. This course delves into the essentials of loglines, pitch decks, and pitching strategies, offering you the tools to confidently present your ideas to industry professionals. You’ll gain a solid understanding of the development process for both Hollywood and Indie projects. With hands-on guidance and practical exercises, this class gives you the knowledge and confidence to develop the materials needed to pitch your idea/script. Screenwriting experience is recommended.

Alex Schwarm is a creative producer and development executive specializing in scripted film and television. He has shepherded numerous acclaimed series from development through production, including Peabody Award Winners RECTIFY and DEUTSCHLAND 83, as well as John Le Carré’s THE LITTLE DRUMMER GIRL.

Class Size: 8-10
Requirements: Completed script, or script in progress.
Prerequisites: Screenwriting 1 & 2 encouraged.

Development Lab 2

Dive deeper into the world of development and take your project to the next level in this advanced workshop designed for writers ready to refine their scripts and sharpen their pitch. This roundtable-style class provides a supportive and collaborative space for workshopping completed screenplays or pilot scripts, offering in-depth feedback from peers and the instructor. Through guided pitch development, live practice sessions, and targeted script notes, you’ll deepen your understanding of the creative development process and prepare your project for the next stage. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your story, polish your dialogue, or gain
confidence in the room, this workshop will help you move your script closer to production.

Class Size: 6-8
Requirements: Completed script.
Prerequisites: Screenwriting 2, Screenwriters Lab, Development Workshop 1, or
equivalent experience.

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(Please Note: Discount applies to $95 Film Lover+
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