Lakeland University Faculty Leads Screenwriting Workshop at Sheboygan Film Festival

Overview of the Upcoming Screenwriting Session

On Friday, October 3, 2025, Lakeland University’s Associate Professor of Writing, Jodie Mortag, will guide attendees through the fundamentals of script composition at WordHaven BookHouse (923 N. 8th St., Sheboygan, Wis.). The session, titled Screenwriting 101, is available to festival pass holders and can also be accessed by a modest $5 donation. By the end of the two‑hour workshop, participants will have a clear grasp of narrative structure, character dynamics, and the visual language that distinguishes film from prose.

Why a Screenwriting Workshop Matters for Aspiring Filmmakers

Writing is the backbone of storytelling. Whether you’re drafting a short film, an independent feature, or a narrative segment for a larger production, a solid script is essential. The workshop covers:

• Story Architecture – how to arrange plot points so the audience stays engaged.
• Visual Dialogue – techniques for writing conversations that reveal character without over‑explanation.
• Genre Adaptation – applying genre conventions in romance, science‑fiction, drama, and more while maintaining originality.
• Show, Don’t Tell – turning internal thoughts into on‑screen actions that drive the story forward.

Take action: If you’re serious about creating compelling scripts, enroll in Lakeland’s screenwriting courses. The programs provide structured mentorship and peer feedback essential for growth.

About the Instructor: Jodie Mortag

Mortag is a native of Wisconsin, having spent her summers in a mozzarella factory before pursuing higher education. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Lakeland and a Master of Fine Arts from Wichita State University. At Lakeland, she teaches fiction, nonfiction, and screenwriting; she also organizes the annual Great Lakes Writers Festival and edits the literary magazine Seems. Her published works appear in respected outlets such as Ruminate, North Dakota Quarterly, and Fourteen Hills. Her short story “Nightcrawlers” was the first prize winner in Mikrokosmos’ 2024 fiction contest.

What Participants Will Gain

Immediate Practical Tools

Attendees will walk away with a checklist of essential script elements: a one‑page logline, a three‑act structure diagram, character sketches, and dialogue formatting examples. You’ll leave the room able to draft the first scene of your story or revise an existing draft with clear, actionable steps.

Broader Connection to the Film Community

By meeting fellow writers and filmmakers at the festival, participants position themselves within a network that can lead to collaborations, feedback loops, and potential funding opportunities. The festival’s exposure also offers a platform for pilots or short films that can be showcased to a live audience.

When you engage with peers, you gain fresh perspectives on your work and often find unexpected solutions to plot holes or character inconsistencies.

How to Prepare for the Workshop

While the workshop is accessible to all skill levels, bringing a draft or a concept outline will help you make the most of the time. If you don’t have a script yet, write a single paragraph that introduces the main conflict or an intriguing scene. This will allow the instructor to give targeted feedback.

Additional Preparation Steps:

• Review classic screenplays in the public domain (e.g., It’s a Wonderful Life, Back to the Future) to understand pacing.
• Familiarize yourself with industry formatting software such as Final Draft or Celtx.
• Read up on the three-act structure to recognize the traditional beats of exposition, conflict, and resolution.

After the Workshop: Next Steps for Emerging Writers

1. Apply for a Writing Fellowship – Lakeland offers a writing fellowship that includes mentorship and a stipend. Check the university’s scholarship page for current openings.

2. Join the Great Lakes Writers Festival Planning Team – Get behind the scenes exposure and strengthen your event‑management skills.

3. Submit Your Script to Local Competitions – Many regional festivals accept screenplays for short‑film adaptations. The Sheboygan Film Festival itself sometimes offers script contests.

Connect With Lakeland Online Resources

After attending the workshop, you can continue learning through Lakeland University’s extensive digital archives and lecture series. Visit the campus online portal to enroll in advanced screenwriting seminars or to schedule individual mentorship sessions.

Take action: If you’re ready to formalize your writing journey, apply for admission to the Master of Fine Arts program or schedule a campus tour here. These steps will place you on a trajectory toward professional screenwriting.

Get Involved with Lakeland’s Creative Community

Lakeland University hosts multiple initiatives that support creative writing and screen production. By becoming a participant, you’ll access workshops, guest lectures, and peer‑review groups that are essential for honing your craft.

Whether you’re a high school senior considering a future in film, a college student looking to sharpen your dialogue, or a working professional with a story to tell, the resources at Lakeland can transform a passion into a viable career.

Take action: For more information on course offerings, visit the academic catalog and discover how you can start with a certificate or full degree in creative writing.

Conclusion: Seize the Opportunity at the Sheboygan Film Festival

The Sheboygan Film Festival is more than a showcase of films; it’s a crucible for emerging talent. The screenwriting workshop led by Jodie Mortag offers a practical, hands‑on approach to learning the language of cinema. By attending, you’ll leave with foundational skills, a network, and a clearer vision for your next project.

Don’t miss the chance to build the story you’ve always wanted to tell. Register for a festival pass, secure your spot in the workshop, and begin the next chapter of your creative journey.

Have questions about the workshop, admissions, or the screenwriting program? Write to the writing department today.

Explore further: Visit the Sheboygan Film Festival website for schedule details and other event highlights.

Remember: A strong script is the first step toward a memorable film. Let Lakeland’s expertise guide your creative path.