what is a fiction podcast
Fiction podcast is a scripted story, voiced by actors, for the specific intention of being heard. Also known as scripted, storytelling or narrative podcasts. It is an audio file that can be downloaded and listened to later. Popular genres include: drama, comedy, mystery, sci-fi, horror and thriller. You listen to fiction podcasts online.
difference between screenplay and fiction podcast
Fiction podcasts are shorter and 15-60 minutes long. No visual cues, only audio cues. All information must be relayed with sound including dialogue and special sound effects (thunderstorm, creaking doors, explosions, footsteps). Fiction podcasts are several episodes long. Think of it as cinema for the ears.
OUR PODCAST JUDGES
FAQ
What are the awards?
The first place winner will get production of their podcast. We will cast the voice actors and shoot the first episode.
What are the deadlines and entry fees?
early deadline is July 3, 2023 – $50
final deadline is July 17, 2023 – $60
How many episodes can I submit?
You can submit up to two episodes 5-30 pages in length of your series with the overall content of the story not going longer than 70 pages. You should also include a series outline, detailing the events of the remaining episodes in the series.
What do I need to put on the title page?
We only want the title of the podcast.
Can I submit more than one podcast?
Yes, but you must fill out separate entry forms for each one.
Who does the judging?
All the judging is done by our team of judges and Scriptapalooza.
I don’t live in the US, can I enter?
Yes, we do accept podcasts from around the world.
If I win, does Scriptapalooza own the podcast?
No, you retain all the rights to your work.
What is the correct format for podcasts?
Your podcast should be formatted similar to a screenplay, without the visual descriptions. The font should be 12-point Courier type.
RULES
All fiction podcasts must be written in English.
The podcast must be the writers’ original work.
Adaptations are accepted but the writer must own the copyright.
Submit your podcast in PDF format.
We do accept children’s fiction podcasts.
We strongly suggest you register your podcast with US Copyright office.
All podcasts must not have been sold or distributed in the past.
All submissions must be accompanied by the appropriate entry fee and application.
Scriptapalooza reserves the right to reject or disqualify any entered podcast.
The winner/winners consent to Scriptapalooza using their name, script title and any other relevant information for promotional purposes on their website/newsletter.
Scriptapalooza Inc. or any other partner, employee or agent associated with this competition claims no ownership nor first right of option to any original podcast submitted to this competition. All ownership and rights to the podcasts submitted to this competition remains with the original rights holders until and unless other agreements are made.
SCRIPTAPALOOZA IS PROUD TO HAVE BEEN FEATURED IN
podcasts we recommend
how to write a podcast, when you only know screenwriting
You are already ahead of the game. Fiction podcasts and screenwriting both are storytelling. The format will basically remain the same, however, much shorter with audio cues as opposed to visual cues.
Think of it more like episodes for a TV show. The episodes length can be 15, 20, or 30 minutes. The idea is to keep the listener engaged to want to keep listening to the series. The ending of each one should feel unresolved yet interesting enough to retain your listeners.
As a writer, you also want to grab and hook your listeners in the first several minutes of the podcast, or they lose interest and tune out. It’s similar to a screenplay’s first 20 pages. You want to draw them in and become invested into what will happen next.
do you have a screenplay that you want to reformat to a fiction podcast?
You would need to break your screenplay into sections. A standard script usually has around 120 pages. You can break that up into 4, 6, or 8 podcasts. As you consider rewriting you script into a podcast keep in mind that you will no longer need visual cues. You will, however, be adding audio cues. All relevant information will be heard through narration or character dialogue and sound effects. Check out transcripts of popular fiction podcasts online to help you understand.
