MAY — The Scene That Works

May 1, 2026

Scriptwriters Network 40th Anniversary Celebration

12 Months • 12 Ways We Give Back

As Scriptwriters Network celebrates 40 years of supporting writers, we’re giving back to the creative community with monthly opportunities for writers to learn, connect, and grow.

Each month throughout 2026 highlights a different aspect of our mission — from mentorship and education to creativity and community.

Everyone is welcome to participate.

May 40th Anniversary Giveaway

Scene Writing & Structure

May focuses on one of the most essential elements of storytelling — the scene.

A strong script is built moment by moment, and every effective story is driven by scenes that carry purpose, tension, and meaning. This month, Scriptwriters Network invites writers to focus on crafting a single, powerful scene that stands on its own while revealing character, conflict, and intention.

As part of our 40th Anniversary – 12 Months • 12 Ways We Give Back initiative, this challenge is designed to help writers strengthen their storytelling at the foundational level.

The Challenge

Participants are invited to submit one original scene (up to 1,000 words) that demonstrates strong storytelling through action, dialogue, and subtext.

Scripts may be written in standard screenplay format (encouraged) or in a general narrative format.

Focus Areas

Writers are encouraged to concentrate on the following elements:

Conflict — What is happening in the scene, and what is at stake?
Character Intention — What does each character want?
Subtext — What is being said beneath the dialogue?

What Makes a Strong Scene?

A compelling scene should:

Move the story forward or reveal something essential
Contain clear tension or opposition
Show character through behavior, not just words
Leave an impact on the audience

Who Can Participate

This challenge is open to all writers, at any level of experience.

Whether you are just beginning or have been writing for years, this is an opportunity to refine your craft and explore the power of a well-constructed scene.

How to Enter

Please submit your scene via email to:

info@scriptwritersnetwork.org

Subject line:

May Scene Submission

Please include the following:

Your full name
Title of your scene
Please paste your scene directly into the body of your email. Attachments will not be reviewed.

Submission Guidelines

One scene per participant
Maximum 1,000 words
Original work only
Script format encouraged, but not required
Please review your submission for spelling and grammar before sending.

Entry Deadline

All submissions must be received between:

May 1 – May 31, 2026

Prizes

Winners will receive:

🎁 One-Year Free Membership to Scriptwriters Network

🎁 One-Hour Script Consultation with SWN President Melessa Y. Sargent

🎁 Featured Writer Spotlight in the SWN Newsletter

*In addition to the Grand Prize winner, selected Honorable Mentions may be featured on Scriptwriters Network social media and in the SWN newsletter.

Why This Matters

Great writing doesn’t begin with a full script — it begins with a single moment that works.

By focusing on one scene, writers can sharpen their ability to build tension, develop character, and write with clarity and purpose.

Winner(s) & Featured Spotlight

Submissions will be reviewed at the end of the month.

The winner will be contacted and announced during the first week of June 2026.

View all featured winners

Celebrating 40 Years of Writers Supporting Writers

Throughout 2026, Scriptwriters Network continues to celebrate its 40th Anniversary with special opportunities, giveaways, and events designed to support writers at every stage of their journey.

We invite you to join us in honoring four decades of storytelling, mentorship, and community.

*Invite another writer to participate and celebrate 40 years of Scriptwriters Network together.