Overview

The Academy gives youths, 13 to 18 years of age, the opportunity to go from aspiring writers to published authors, writers, poets, novelists, playwrights, screenwriters, and journalists. Youths are encouraged, inspired, and motivated to use imagination, creativity, experiences, and critical thinking skills to create masterpieces through literary writing and the creative arts. They have the opportunity to write and publish literary works under the guidance of professional authors, playwrights, teachers, and volunteer writing coaches while consulting with industry professionals about the design and publication of their work. They receive first-hand advice and get the chance to build relationships with professional who serves as current and future mentors and coaches. The Academy Advisory Board consists of experts from the field.

Screenwriting

Screenwriting introduces youth to:

  • The basics of screenwriting.
  •  Structure and format of a screenplay.
  •  How to visually write scripts.
  •  How to create a setting, conflict, theme, etc.
  •  Use filmmaking to write the cinematic language.
  •  Write and revise screenwriting pieces.
  •  Create, produce and put on a short screenplay.

Playwriting

Playwriting introduces youth to: 

  • The fundamentals of writing a stage play
  • The conventions of playwriting.
  • How to pre-write/write scenes.
  • Use dialogue to create the setting, stage directions, and scenes
  • Create conflict and dramatic scenes.
  • Act out dramatic monologues.
  • Write, produce and script a one-act play.
  • View, attend, and critique plays and theatrical productions.
  • Participate in field trips related to playwriting.
  • Complete service-learning projects/internships.

Creative Writing Program

Through the creative writing program youth:

  •  Write and publish a literary piece.
  •  Learn the conventions of writing.
  •  Learn what it takes to become a writer or author.
  •  Write a novel poem, memoir, or autobiography.
  • Work under the guidance of teachers and professionals.
  •  Participate in book reviews.
  •  Go on field trips related to creative writing.
  • Complete service-learning projects/internships.
  • Showcase work at the book signing/launch reception.
  •  Participate in Poetry Slam Night.
  • Youth build literary journals, research publications, libraries and submit their writing to various journals and magazines.

Journalism

This cutting-edge program provides innovative learning opportunities to youth who are interested in journalism.

  • Introduce youth to journalism.
  • Exposed to cultural appreciation, writing, reading comprehension, communication, public speaking, and soft skills needed to be successful in journalism.   
  • Gain hands-on-editorial experience.
  • Attend an event and create a news article about the event.
  • Create a blog site and write blog articles.
  • Take and use photography in the news articles and on the blog.
  • Participate in real-world simulations related to news or radio broadcast.
  • Serve on a panel related to current issues.
  • Do a commentary on a newsworthy article.
  • Go on field trips related to journalism.
  • Complete service-learning projects/internships.

All programs require youths to create professional portfolios. Portfolios allow youths to present examples of their best work that can be used in preparation for college and careers.

Monologue Contest

The AT&T performing Arts Center is presenting its Second Annual Virtual Monologue Competition

The Impact

The Academy programs:

  • Youth increase and improve reading and writing academic skills.
  • Positively change youths’ attitudes toward school motivating them to learn.
  • Gain real-world experience by working on assignments that involve reading, developing critical thinking skills, and working with professionals in the field. 
  • Help professionals give back to the community by providing volunteer services and expertise.
  • Youth gain an appreciation for writing and the amount of time, effort, and planning that goes into publishing.