Learn from an executive producer and creative executive behind VIKINGS, THE DEAD ZONE, and CLEVERMAN!

Receive pitch deck templates, structure tools, and a personal outreach strategy to position your series for success!

You have a drama series idea that excites you — now it’s time to shape it into something that sells. In today’s global TV market, the opportunity for original storytelling is bigger than ever. But to break through, you need more than just a great concept — you need a development strategy that speaks the language of buyers. This exclusive Stage 32 4-part class gives you the tools, support, and insider insights you need to develop a standout TV drama series and pitch it with confidence.

It’s easy to jump into scriptwriting or deck design too soon — and miss what networks and streamers actually want. Many creators pitch ideas that aren’t fully formed, misread what different platforms are buying, or waste time chasing the wrong industry contacts. This class is designed to help you avoid those missteps. You’ll learn from a seasoned executive who knows exactly what makes a drama series sell — and how to shape your project for the current market.

Your host Adam Fratto is an executive producer and development executive with deep experience shaping hit drama series. His credits include global franchises like VIKINGS, fan favorites like THE DEAD ZONE, and acclaimed genre projects like CLEVERMAN. Adam has overseen scripted series at HISTORY, Reel One, and Pukeko Pictures, and is the founder of Cognito Entertainment, a private equity-backed company focused on high-end scripted and unscripted content. With experience across development, packaging, and pitching, Adam is here to guide you through every stage of turning your idea into a pitch-ready series.

This isn’t just theory — it’s a roadmap. Over four interactive sessions, you’ll take your concept from spark to pitch-ready. You’ll build the foundation of your show, structure your deck, and learn how to talk about your project in a way that gets buyers to lean in. You’ll also receive pitch templates and development tools to support your journey.

This interactive Stage 32 class is held on Zoom and goes substantially more in depth than a Stage 32 webinar. Best of all? As soon as you sign up you will be linked on email with Adam and given a questionnaire to fill out and send back to him. You will have access to him for the duration of your class by email to ask him any questions you have about your craft or career - it’s like having a mentor on demand! And, if you can't make a live session, don't worry! All class recordings will be available 48 hours after each session and you will be able to view them in your Library on your Stage 32 profile. Finally, you can expand your network with like-minded creatives - you'll have a dedicated lounge for interactive support and discussions with your fellow classmates!

PLUS! You’ll Receive:

• A sample rights agreement checklist and option/purchase overview

• A drama structure template and key development questions

• A pitch deck template + a sample outline

• Query email examples + a research tracking worksheet

Session #1: Developing Your Concept: Original Ideas Vs. Adaptations

   • Shaping a dramatic concept into a viable series.

   • Developing original IP and how to identify and pursue existing IP affordably.

   • Understanding what rights are needed, what contracts to consider, and case studies of successful (and scrappy) IP acquisitions.

Assignment: Identify your concept, identify if it’s original or adapted, and write a one-paragraph pitch.

Session #2:  Crafting A Compelling Story For Today’s Market

   • What makes a story irresistible to buyers? We’ll analyze structure, tone, and hook — and examine what networks vs. streamers vs. international platforms look for.

   • We will discuss how to create world-building, character engines, and season arcs that spark interest.

Assignment: Draft your log line and brief series overview. 

Session #3:  Pitching Your Series: Verbal & Visual Tools

   • How to create a killer pitch: verbal pitch strategies (60-second, 3-minute, long-form)

   •  The keys to structuring a pitch deck that gets attention.

   • Students will get the opportunity to practice techniques and common pitfalls in the pitch room.

Assignment: Record your 60-second pitch or draft a 1-page pitch summary.

Session #4: Creating a Strategic Target List

   • Learn how to build a smart target list using tools like IMDbPro and trade press.

   • Understand how to tailor your outreach to buyers, production companies, and reps.

   • Tips on writing email queries, managing meetings, and staying professional in follow-up.

Assignment: Create a personal target list of 10 potential buyers and draft an email query.

• New and emerging writers looking to break into TV with a strong, pitch-ready drama series

• Established filmmakers ready to transition into television development

• Independent producers seeking a clear path to package and pitch their project to buyers

• Showrunners and creators refining their development materials for international appeal

• Anyone at any stage of their career who wants professional guidance and real-world tools from a top industry executive

Monday, June 16th, 3pm-5pm PT

Monday, June 23rd, 3pm-5pm PT

Monday, June 30th, 3pm-5pm PT

Monday, July 7th, 3pm-5pm PT