The Arlington Public Library launched the Hollywood Screenwriting for Teens workshop a few weeks ago, and it's been a huge success. The program has been a great opportunity for young creative writers receive a crash course on what it takes to be a writer for Hollywood!

On day one, workshop participants started learning the basics of how to properly format a script according to the industry's standards. Then these new screenwriters were trained on using a very popular screenwriting program called Celtx.

Once the participants displayed mastery of the proper screenplay structure, it was time for them to start brainstorming! These young screenwriters generated some blockbuster ideas for their original screenplays. They will continue to develop these ideas throughout the workshop.

After each participant "pitched" a unique story concept to the group, they were then challenged to develop a written synopsis (summary) for their story and a treatment (a detailed outline of their entire story from beginning to end). Next, they each created a "hook" to grab the attention of a producer or an audience in two sentences or less!

One of the most positive outcomes of this program is seeing how much the confidence levels in these young writers continue to increase with every passing week. These teens are learning that it's not just about being a good writer, but also learning how to market your special talent.

One of the most common issues that writers, young and old, struggle with is holding on tightly to their ideas against the fear of rejection and receiving harsh criticism from others. However, after a few workshop sessions, each of the new screenwriters broke out of their shells and took turns speaking to the group about their stories. Most importantly, they all shared why their script is going to be awesome, which is what it's all about!