Launched in August 2017, Tricksters and Writers is a screenwriting program for Indigenous women, organized by WIFTV in collaboration with Doreen Manuel (Secwepemc/Ktunaxa First Nations filmmaker, and Director of the Nat and Flora Bosa Centre for Film & Animation) and Peggy Thompson (screenwriter, Director of WIFTV’s Board). The program was delivered over three phases including instructional and networking sessions, story editing sessions and actor table read workshops.
As phase three of the program came to a close, a group of programs participants, organizers and supporters gathered at the Skwachays Lodge Indigenous Arts Hotel in Gastown Vancouver.
Hosted by one of the program’s sponsors, Matrix Production Services, participants took the opportunity to share stories about their experiences in the program.
“I loved the sense of community attending the workshops and hearing everyone’s stories in a respectful and safe environment. On a personal level, I feel I have come out of the program with a better understanding of myself. So much was lost due to my grandfather being removed from his culture as a child. Now, I feel a greater sense of permission to not just write more openly, from the core of myself and the way my Indigenous heritage has shaped that, but to continue to ask questions and learn more about where I come from and my family history and culture. This program has been life changing for me. It’s made my writing voice stronger and also put me on a path of discovery. I sincerely hope this opportunity is offered to others in the future. “ – Marcy Waughtal
“What an incredible experience with Tricksters and Writers, to be mentored and guided as I wrote my first feature. Perfectly paired with script editor, and incredible actors for the table read Trickster’s has provided opportunity and support and accountability. I’m grateful to have this support with Women In Film and feel much more confident as an emerging filmmaker.” – Jenifer Brousseau
“I absolutely loved my time in this program I was able to focus and develop the rest of my feature film script, I made amazing connections and am a strong believer in the success and need for a program like this all over Canada!!, Thank you to all the funders who believe in authentic indigenous stories and women empowering women!” – Jessie Anthony
“Tricksters and Writers came at a perfect time in my life. It helped me focus on screenwriting rather than novel writing, which is what I wanted to do anyways. One of the best decisions I’ve made was to apply for this program.” – Joy Haskell
Program participants also included: Sarah Stupar and Sarah Kelly
With support from the City of Vancouver, five scripts will be further workshopped at an event on March 6th at the Vancouver International Women in Film Festival.
WIFTV is accepting applications until March 1st, 2019 for the next edition of the Tricksters and Writers Vancouver Feature Film Writing Program for Indigenous Women. Click here for details!
