Local screenwriting groups?

I found something interesting while bumping around the web: Wisconsin Screenwriters Forum:

The WSF is a not-for-profit writers support group, organized to provide educational, networking, and marketing support for individuals interested in learning the craft and business of screenwriting.

WSF has members throughout the world. We actively network with screenwriters and entertainment industry professionals in Los Angeles, New York, and throughout the United States in an effort to provide contacts and entry points for our members.

We welcome new members, both novice writers and professionals, as well as anyone in the entertainment industry with a vested interest in nurturing the art of screenwriting.

Our members consist of novice and experienced screenwriters, students, filmmakers, industry insiders, published authors, etc. All are welcome.

I was reminded there are groups like this all across the United States, even around the world. So I did a bit more research and found this: Script Writing Meetup Groups: 148 groups, 15,000+ members, 112 cities, 9 countries.

It’s easy to understand why these outfits exist. Aspiring writers can use feedback on their writing. Being a member of a screenwriting group is also a form of networking. And let’s face it, writing can be a lonely task, so sometimes it’s just nice to be able to talk shop with someone who understands what it’s like to stare at a blank page awaiting the magic to happen.

I’ve spoken to the Dallas Screenwriting Association before. And a number of my students have mentioned similar outfits. So I thought why not reach out to the GITS community to compile a list of screenwriting groups as well as opinions — pros and cons — of being a member of such a group.

Do you know of any screenwriting groups? If so, what is its name and website? Are you a member? How long? How has your membership helped you? Any downsides? What do you look for as a member of a screenwriting group?

Eventually when you sell a script and start a career as a screenwriter and/or TV writer, you will want to corral a select group of professional associates with whom you can share pages for their feedback. Also nice to be able to go to lunch or out for drinks occasionally. Being a member of a screenwriting group is a great way to prepare for that eventuality. Plus who knows? Maybe you will meet a fellow pilgrim and end up sharing your creative journeys together for a long time.

Let’s see what sort of list of screenwriting groups we can compile. And if you think it would be of value to the GITS community and aspiring screenwriters in general, I’d consider creating another right-hand column list with all the active screenwriting groups. What do you think?

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