Write Over Here: Indigenous Futurism Residency 2027

Overview

Write Over Here: Indigenous Futurism welcomes Indigenous screenwriters at various stages of their careers to apply individually or with a collaborator (novelist, short story writer, or playwright) to develop their work for screen. The 4-week residency balances self-directed writing in personal studios with faculty-led workshops, peer collaboration, and culturally informed creative practices. Participants will refine screenwriting skills, enhance their craft, and benefit from 24/7 access to studio space and community engagement opportunities.

Program Details

• Online preparatory week with intro sessions, script reviews, and one-on-one sessions
• Faculty and guest artist-led workshops covering story development, character development, and screenwriting techniques
• Peer-to-peer engagement and collaborative exercises
• One-on-one consultations with faculty and mentors
• 24/7 access to private studio space for focused writing
• Community engagement and public programming opportunities
• Open house February 24th showcasing cohort work through screenings, table reads, and artist talks

Eligibility

• Indigenous screenwriters at any stage of career
• Must have written at least one script previously, or have educational background in film and/or screenwriting
• Must be adapting a novel, short story, or play into a television series, feature film, or episodic work for a web platform
• Must be 18+ at program start date
• Must be available to attend the entire 4-week program; variable participation dates will not be considered
• Open to artists based anywhere in the world

Residency Details

• Length: 4 weeks
• Average cohort size: 12 artists
• May apply as a team; all applicants must be accepted individually
• Private bedroom in shared housing facility on campus
• Meals provided (food stipend)
• Partially accessible facilities (50% or more)

Application & Fees

• Submission deadline: September 23, 2026
• Application fee: $35 CAD (for Indigenous applicants, non-refundable, covers processing and SlideRoom fee)
• Residency fee: $6,153 CAD
• Banff Centre Arts Scholarship covering 100% of total fees, meal plan, and accommodation costs available for all Indigenous arts participants—complete the Financial Aid section when uploading supporting materials

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: September 23, 2026
• Open house and presentations: February 24, 2027

Residency Experience

Participants will engage in faculty-led workshops, one-on-one feedback sessions, and team bonding exercises. Writers will enhance their skills, benefit from networking opportunities, and collaborate with peers. Participants are expected to participate in public programming, open studio with fellow residents, and give an artist talk or presentation.

Support & Accessibility

• Travel stipend and material stipends available
• Personal studio space with 24/7 access
• Accessibility information available at https://www.banffcentre.ca/medical-information
• Housing is partially accessible (50% or more)
• Application at http://url.banffcentre.ca/bgmHxK