The 23rd Annual "A Place Called Sacramento" Script Competition & Short Film Incubator

We proudly invite you to participate in the 23rd Access Sacramento “A Place Called Sacramento” (PCS) script writing and short film incubator for local writers and producers. PCS challenges local screenwriters to write ten-minute scripts about the people, places, and events that make our community such a unique place to live. All submitted scripts are reviewed by local professionals, and ten winners are selected.

The ten screenwriters/producers are then introduced to actors and production teams at the PCS “Cast and Crew Call” Wednesday, May 10, 2023.

Production teams are formed and production commences during the summer months. Finally, friends gather at the Red Carpet Film Premiere at the CREST Theater on Friday, October 13, 2023 at 7:00 pm

Script Submission Deadline (3/14/23):

The Deadline is up!  Scripts are off to the Judges and all those who have successfully entered are receiving emails on confirmation and next steps.

Incubator Workshops

Short-Form Script Writing Workshop

You need a script. So now what do you do?  This workshop will get you up and writing that screenplay in just 2 Saturdays.  Dawn is a celebrated screenwriter and we recommend this course to first-timers and veterans alike.  Polish up that script!
Instructor:  Dawn Spinella
Member Cost: $65

Total Workshop Session: This workshop consists of a two, 2-hour sessions.
Saturdays,  Feb 4th & 11th from 10am to Noon

Call the office at 916.456.8600 to sign up.

How To Make A Film

You have a script. So now what do you do?  This workshop samples script breakdown, highlights scheduling, discusses managing expectation–all of the production realities for a beginner filmmaker.
Instructor:  Carlos Hernandez
Member Cost: $40
Non-member Cost: $50
Total Workshop Session: This workshop consists of a single three-hour session.
Saturday,  May 13, 2023, 1 – 4 pm
Call the office at 916.456.8600 to sign up.

Camera Ready Make-up Basics

Bunny Stewart teaches this fun, hand-on workshop where you learn how to apply camera ready make-up.  Plan on getting your make-up done and on doing another student’s make-up.  This area needs more trained make-up artists on set which could be you!
Instructor:  Bunny Stewart
Member Cost:  $40
Non-member Cost:  $50
Total Workshop Sessions:  This workshop consists of a single four-hour session. Bring your lunch.
Saturday, June 3, 2023, 10 am – 2 pm
Call the office at 916.456.8600 to sign up.

To enroll in any of the PCS workshops, call (916) 456-8600 x0. Advance enrollment is required. Limited registration.

Click here to view prior competition winners on our YouTube channel.

Hosting the PCS screenwriting competition since 1999, 215 short films have been created. Access Sacramento is a nonprofit that provides the community with low-cost media tools and training in order to empower all Sacramento County residents to lift their voices.

PCS Awards Ceremony 2021

PCS on Live Wire

PCS Cast & Crew Call 2022