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Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome!
We would like to welcome you to the Scriptwriters Showcase at the Sheraton Universal hotel with a helpful collection of information including street maps to the hotel, amenities available while you're at the Showcase and location of the various events.
 Download the PDF here and print a copy to take with you to the Showcase!

Scriptwriters Showcase Take a Meeting

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Use our online form to submit your question directly to our sales team >>

 

Answers:
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Who put this event together?

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The Scriptwriters Showcase is a production of Final Draft. The staff is very talented and works very hard to bring the Showcase to you -- small gifts are welcomed and appreciated. J/K
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Is this event for beginners?

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It's not exclusively for beginners -- Showcase is for anyone who takes his or her career seriously. Whether you're just beginning or have been working hard for years -- if it's success you want, it's the Scriptwriters Showcase you need.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Are there other Showcase dates/times that I could attend? Will you be doing another one?

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At the moment there's nothing definitive planned, but we're considering holding more events.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Where's the best place to stay if I'm coming from out of town?

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Easy. The Sheraton Universal is a gorgeous hotel and has offered a deeply discounted rate to Showcase attendees. Not to mention the entire event takes place in the hotel. Talk about convenience.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: I'm a working professional in the industry. Does this event have any value to me?

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Of course. If you're working in some capacity as a development executive, agent or manager, this is a prime opportunity to see what types of talent are working behind the scenes. You can learn for yourself and for your clients about the many opportunities open to writers if they know where to look. As a working writer, the Showcase is a great opportunity to learn how to promote your talent and cement your success as a working writer. If you’re a working professional in the industry with an impressive resumé, feel free to send it along to showcase@finaldraft.com. We’re open to new speakers!
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Does going to the Showcase get me any deals for the Universal Studios theme park?

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You know it! Discount passes will be available when you pick up your registration packet.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: When will it be held?

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April 20-22, 2007 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Where will it be held?

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Universal Sheraton at Universal City, located right off of the Lankershim Blvd. exit on the 101. Just follow the signs for Universal Studios.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Are the speakers listed on the schedule guaranteed to appear?

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Unfortunately, the same reason that we all know of and love these talented people is the reason that we can't guarantee their presence. New projects or changes in scheduling can arise and these folks must head off to work. They have committed to being part of the event based on their current schedules and we will do our best to have them there. Like any event, the card is subject to change. Once you register, you'll be notified by e-mail if we add or drop any speakers.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: How do I get the discount?

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Reservations can be made directly from our web site as part of the registration process. Could we make it any easier?
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Planes, Trains and Automobiles?

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Discount travel will be offered from airlines and rental car companies via our web site. Traveling by train? It's 2007, come on!
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: How many panels can I attend?

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First come, first served. Rooms may fill so arrive early.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Who is going to be attending?

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Working writers, aspiring writers, development executives, advertising executives, directors and filmmakers. Because we offer such a variety of talent, we expect the audience interests to reflect that diversity.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: When is the best time to register?

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As soon as possible. The advantages are many. First, we have space for 999 attendees and after that it'll be sold out. Second, you get first crack at some of the limited-engagement opportunities, like the Closing-Night Party or the VIP Networking Party.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Can anyone and everyone go to the Keynote Speaker Address?

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Yes, the Keynote Event is included in all packages.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Who can attend the Closing-Night Party?

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Unfortunately, we can't fit everyone, so only 350 tickets will be available. Speakers, sponsors and staff will be there to party with you as well.
 
 

What else does the Scriptwriters Showcase have to offer?

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ScriptXpert Live, Take a Meeting, VIP Screening, Networking Party, Market Place, new and exciting product demos from a wide range of companies. And free coffee.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Will parking be an issue? I hate having to fight for a spot.

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No. The hotel handles events far larger than this one and they do so without using all of their available lots. There will be plenty of parking for all.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: What will it cost to park?

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Parking is $13 for the entire day. And it's tax-deductible.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Can I register for the event at the event?

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You'll run the risk of the event selling out, but yes, onsite registration will be available (space permitting).
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Will I get to meet/talk to any of the speakers?

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You might. Q&A sessions will follow each panel, so at the very least you'll be able to ask them any question that might be on your mind. And who knows, maybe you'll run into one of them in the bathroom or one of the parties or screenings.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Is there a way to get involved as a volunteer?

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Yes. Send an e-mail to volunteer@finaldraft.com with a resumé and cover letter.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: I know someone who would be interested in speaking or sponsoring. Who do I contact?

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The Showcase coordinator can be contacted at showcase@finaldraft.com. Please be aware that we can only accept as speakers writers with significant writing credits.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: I can't come on all three days. Is that a problem? Do I get a discount?

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No. A full registration gets you access to any panels you choose, so try your best to see as many panels as possible on the days that you can attend.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: I live in L.A. and somehow don't have a car. Is there a metro station in the area?

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Quite conveniently, yes there is. At the entrance to Universal City is a main metro point -- buses and subway.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: I'm flying in for the event. Which airport do you recommend?

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Burbank is closest, but LAX may have better offers/flight schedules. Choose the lesser of the two evils.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: How will I get my badge?

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We'll send it to you ahead of time. If you order within a week of the event, we will have it waiting for you when you arrive.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: I've already paid but now I can't attend. How do I get a refund?

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You may submit a request for a refund in writing up until March 15, 2007 and you'll still incur a $25 processing fee. After that date, no refunds will be issued.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Who do I contact to sponsor or get a booth?

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Please send an email to showcase@finaldraft.com.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Is there handicap access?

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Of course. The hotel is fully equipped with ramps, elevators, etc.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: Are there group discounts?

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If you have a group of 10 or more, we'll be happy to work out a customized package for you. Please contact us at showcase@finaldraft.com.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: How many people will be on a panel?

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Panels will have 3-4 speakers and a moderator, all of whom will participate in an informative discussion.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: If I stay in the hotel, what is there to do after the festivities?

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City Walk, with its two levels of shopping, dining, entertainment and extensive watering holes, is just a short walk or free shuttle ride away. City Walk is all the fun you can handle.
 
 

Scriptwriters Showcase: What do I get and for how much?

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Bronze Package
* All Panels
* Keynote Event
* Cost: $199
* Student/Educator Rate: $179

Silver Package
* All Panels
* Keynote Event
* One (1) Take A Meeting
* One-year subscription to Script Magazine
* Tour of Universal Studios Back Lot
*Cost: $299
* Student/Educator Rate: $269

Gold Package
* All Panels
* Keynote Event
* One (1) Take A Meeting
* One-year subscription to scr(i)pt Magazine
* Tour of Universal Studios Back Lot
* VIP Screening
* VIP Networking Party
* Scriptwriters Showcase T-Shirt
* Gold Package Gift Bag (the same bag that guest speakers and VIPs receive)
* Cost: $399 * Student/Educator Rate: $359

-- Take A Meeting is $99/meeting for any meetings purchased a la carte.
-- Networking Party is $75 a la carte
-- VIP Screening is $25 a la carte
 
 

Take A Meeting: When will the online meeting selection open?

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On or before March 1, 2007, an e-mail will be sent to all registrants who have signed up for the Take A Meeting sessions. Pre-registered Take A Meeting participants will have three days to select the meetings that they want before the meetings become available to the public. Have another question? Feel free to e-mail us.
 
 

Take A Meeting: How does it work?

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Starting March 1st you may log into your account and choose executives with whom to take your meetings. You may update or add to your meetings at any time including the actual day of the event. Your badge is your ticket to enter the meeting room. Screenwriters will first congregate in the Green Room of the meeting area 15 minutes before their meetings. In the Green Room you'll have time to relax, rehearse your pitch, ask questions of the staff and prepare for your meeting. Comfortable seating will be provided.

At the time of your meeting, you'll be escorted to your meeting area and introduced to your executive at which time you may begin the meeting. Use your time not only to pitch ideas, but to get feedback on your pitch, your career direction and script. At the end of the meeting, the room will be cleared and executives will have time to relax and prepare for their next meeting.
 
 

Take A Meeting: What is the dress code?

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Take A Meeting sessions are designed to simulate a meeting in the executive's office. Dress as you would if you were going to his or her office. Business-casual is preferred.
 
 

Take A Meeting: Are there lines to stand in?

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No, you sign up online for a specific meeting time. You only need to line up 15 minutes before your designated meeting time. At that point you may enter the Green Room and prepare for your meeting.
 
 

Take A Meeting: Can co-writers take meetings together?

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Yes, co-writers can take meetings together for no extra cost. They do not need to purchase a second ticket. They do, however, need to buy separate tickets for the conference if they wish to attend it as well.
 
 

Take A Meeting: How do I know that the executive with whom I am meeting won't steal my idea?

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All executives who hear pitches for the Showcase are required to sign a release in advance of the event. it is advisable to register your script with the WGA for additional protection. Please be aware that if you're pitching, you'll also be required to sign a standard release form prior to choosing your meeting sessions. Having writers sign a release is protection for all involved and standard business practice.
 
 

Take A Meeting: How long is each meeting?

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Fifteen minutes, longer than the usual five or so minutes given in regular pitchfests. Longer meetings allow ample time for a screenwriter to introduce himself or herself, his or her idea and receive feedback not only about his particular project but about his or her career path as well.
 
 

Take A Meeting: Can I bring props or leave behind promotional materials that relate to my material?

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No. Meetings at the Showcase are professional in nature and we ask that everyone conduct themselves as professional screenwriters taking a meeting in an executive's office. No props or leave-behinds will be allowed.
 
 

Take A Meeting: Are we allowed to film or document our meeting?

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As you may have guessed, the answer to this question is a resounding "no."
 
 

Take A Meeting: Can I contact the executives prior to meeting with them at the Showcase?

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No. Contacting an executive outside of the time he/she has already set aside from his/her busy schedule is inconsiderate. If you want to know more about an executive, please see the information he provided for the event or research that executive in the trades.
 
 

Take A Meeting: How do I know with whom I should meet?

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By doing your homework. Starting March 1st, the web site will list the executives' credits and notes on what kind of material they want. You can't go wrong by doing additional research about the executives on web sites like Variety, The Hollywood Reporter or Internet Movie Database. Be sure the ideas you're going to pitch match what the executive says he/she wants to hear.
 
 

Take A Meeting: Who should attend?

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Scriptwriters who have prepared a pitch and feel confident about their work, their ideas and themselves.
 
 

Take A Meeting: How many meetings can I buy?

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As many as you'd like.
 

The Talent

Greg Coolidge – Writer/Director
Sorority Boys, Employee of the Month

See Full Credits
List of Showcase Speakers
 

“It is difficult for screenwriters and directors to break into the industry and getting the opportunity to pitch Hollywood executives through Final Draft's Take A Meeting is a great outlet.”

Justin Killion - Literary Manager/Producer, Kaplan/Perrone Entertainment

 
  2007 Showcase Sponsors

Gold Sponsors:



Complete List of 2007 Sponsors

Sponsorship / Exhibitor Inquiries:

Meredith Barnes
(818) 995-8995, ext.124
adsales@finaldraft.com
 

 

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