Thirty-six participants. Nine networks. Three hours.
On December 4, NYWIFT brought together talented writers, producers, and directors with network and development executives for its first TV pitch fest.
These hopefuls presented their dream projects: scripted series, children shows, game shows, documentary films, and yes, the ever-evolving reality TV. They gained rare access to industry insiders to pitch their original ideas and receive direct, constructive feedback.
The panel included a select group of network and production companies looking to discover new projects:
Mark E. Downie, literary manager, film producer, and TV producer/creator at D&A Media Entertainment.
Abby Finer, co-founder ofFiner Thomas Productions, a full-service talent management and TV/digital media production company.
Francesca Francois-Grimaldi, managing partner and agent at Plaza 7 Talent Agency, a full-service entertainment agency.
Anne Hubbell, co-founder of Tangerine Entertainment.
Dana Offenbach, award-winning producer, and partner in the newly-formed independent film production company CinemaStreet, LLC.
Kristin Pisarcik, Senior Director of Development at NorthSouth Productions.
Greg Rhem,Director of Documentary Programming for HBO.
Dafina Roberts, Original Programming and Events atNickelodeon.
Ed Simpson, Head of Business Development at Leftfield Pictures.
The participants were energized by the TV pitch fest. Antonio Isadora, who pitched a project, rated the experience “excellent” and had set up several follow-up meetings.
Kudos to LeVera Sutton and Meghan Scibona for producing the event.
— ROZ MURPHY
Check out the NYWIFT calendar for more panels, workshops, and other events.
nywift
Related Posts
Meet the New NYWIFT Member: Claire Read
Claire Read is a New York-based documentary filmmaker and producer known for her work on HBO series like Telemarketers and The Vow, as well as independent documentaries covering diverse subjects. Her journey into documentary filmmaking began with a high school project on a controversial NYC community center, now culminating in Penn F—ing Station, a documentary exploring the city's debate over its redevelopment. She crafts stories that blend emotional depth with intellectual engagement, focusing on authentic narratives and human connections. Continue reading to discover Claire's experience in filmmaking and learn more about her upcoming projects.
READ MOREMeet the New NYWIFT Member: Veronica Moya
Welcome to NYWIFT, Veronica Moya! Driven by a belief in every child's innate wisdom and spiritual connection, Veronica founded a platform dedicated to nurturing these qualities. Her mission is to empower children to embrace their truths confidently, equipping them with the tools to navigate life's adventures while staying true to their inner spirit. Through her work, Veronica instills a sense of self-awareness and inner security, guiding children to realize their role as creators of their own happiness and fulfillment in the world.
READ MOREMeet the New NYWIFT Member: Claire Englebienne
Don’t hold the applause! It’s time for us to welcome our new NYWIFT member, Claire Englebienne! Claire is currently a Film & TV student at NYU who’s extremely passionate about storytelling and has begun writing and directing her own work. Originally from Argentina, she hopes to tell stories from her home country that move people. Read our full interview with Claire to learn more about her exciting projects, her experience working in the film industry in Argentina and some inspiring advice she’s received!
READ MORENYWIFT’s Annual Meet the Candidates Event: A Night of Nights
On a sunny day in June, member Stephanie Okun took the Metro North up to Yonkers to go to NYWIFT’s annual member meeting at Great Point Studios, which doubled as our 2024 Meet the Candidates Night where we can meet the candidates running for the 2024-25 NYWIFT Board elections. She shares her recap of the inspirational evening.
READ MORE
