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Coming Soon

Rising Stars

The Rising Star Lab is a one-month comedy television screenwriting program designed to build foundational skills in scriptwriting, writers’ room collaboration, and pitch development.

A cohort of eight emerging Indigenous writers will participate in a weekend scriptwriting intensive, followed by a one-week writers’ room workshop and simulated writers’ room experience. With mentorship from industry professionals and working writers, participants will refine their comedic voice, strengthen their storytelling, and gain practical experience writing for television.

This program supports participants in developing a competitive portfolio of writing samples that demonstrate readiness for a professional writers’ room. It also provides opportunities to build connections with industry professionals, including writers, producers, and show-runners.

Application Window:
Applications for the Rising Stars TV Comedy Scriptwriting Lab will open on April 14, 2026 and close on April 30, 2026 at 5 PM (CT). All submissions must be completed through the online application portal.

Application Materials:
Applicants are asked to provide the following materials:

  1. Writing Samples (Required)
    • Scripts, stories, poetry, or other work that best demonstrates your storytelling ability.
    • Maximum length: 10 pages for scripts; other formats may vary.
  2. Optional Media (Optional)
    • Examples include stand-up clips, TED Talks, or other recorded performances.
    • These are not required, but may supplement your application.
  3. Experience Questions
    • Writing experience: Indicate whether you have prior writing experience and provide a brief explanation.
    • Motivation (if no experience): Explain why you are interested in the program and what you hope to gain.
  4. Story Prompt / Short Story Submission (Decision Needed)
    • Some applicants may be asked to respond to a story prompt or submit a 2-page short story. This will be clarified in the portal if applicable.

Submission Process
All applications are reviewed through a blind selection process, with identifying information removed from writing samples during the initial assessment. Submissions are evaluated based on storytelling ability, originality, and overall potential.

Applications Open
April 14–30, 2026 (5:00 PM CT)

Review Period
Early–Mid May
All submissions are reviewed through a blind selection process.

Interview Stage
May 4–10
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted to schedule a video interview.

Final Decisions
May 11–14
All applicants will be notified of their status by May 15.

Program Dates

  • Weekend Intensive: May 22–23
  • Writers’ Room: May 25–29

  • Identify as First Nations, Métis, Inuit, or otherwise Indigenous.
  • Be 18+ and based in Canada (with priority given to applicants from underrepresented and northern communities).
  • Be an emerging writer or comedian interested in developing skills for television writing.
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in comedy, storytelling, or screenwriting (stage, video content, stand-up, or written formats accepted).
  • Be ready to develop original material for television during the Lab.
  • Commit to full participation in all program activities, including workshops and writers’ room sessions.
  • Submit a writing sample, short bio, and statement of interest.

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