Kelly Marcel Writing & Directing Intensive
Overview
The Full Armor Conservatory is now accepting submissions for a free, in-person Writing & Directing Intensive with Kelly Marcel, taking place on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
This intensive is designed for Louisiana-based writers and filmmakers looking to deepen their craft, clarify their voice, and better understand the creative and practical realities of working across studio and independent film.
The event will take place on Saturday, April 18th from approximately 9:00am-6:00pm in New Orleans. Venue TBA.
All participants are required to be present for the entire duration.
About Kelly Marcel
Kelly Marcel is a screenwriter and director based in London and New Orleans. Her credits include Saving Mr. Banks, Fifty Shades of Grey, Venom, and Venom: Let There Be Carnage, which marked her directorial debut. She also created the television series Terra Nova and The Changeling for Apple TV.
Who Should Apply
This workshop is open solely to Louisiana residents and is free of charge.
We welcome applications from writers and filmmakers actively working in film or television, as well as creatives working in other industries who are developing narrative projects.
Applicants should be prepared to actively engage with peer work and participate fully in the day-long intensive on Saturday, April 18.
Investment
Free! The Full Armor Conservatory is covering the full cost for this workshop as part of its mission to build a thriving, high-achieving Arts and Entertainment community.
Submission Requirements
Please submit a single packet containing the following materials:
Letter of Intent
A brief statement explaining why you’d like to participate and what you hope to gain from the intensive.Writing Sample (up to 10 pages)
If you knew you’d get a greenlight today, what script would you bring? These pages should reflect the story you’re most passionate about telling.Availability Confirmation
Written confirmation that you are fully available on Saturday, April 18.Resume
Creative or professional resume highlighting relevant experience.Letters of Recommendation (optional)
Selection Process
Participants will be selected based on the strength of their submission materials, clarity of voice, and demonstrated commitment to their craft. Selected applicants will be notified in advance of the workshop date.
How to Apply
Please email all required materials to theconservatory@fullarmorfilms.com
Events at the Full Armor Conservatory
At the Full Armor Conservatory (FAC), we design immersive, expert-led programs for actors, screenwriters, and filmmakers. Whether you’re stepping in front of the camera, developing your next screenplay, or looking to expand your professional network, our events bring top-tier training — usually found in major industry cities — right here to Louisiana.
Event Types
On-Camera Acting Workshops
For emerging actors ready to take their craft to the next level.
Small group format: 8–10 actors per workshop for maximum personal attention.
Led by industry leaders: Past instructors include acclaimed acting coach Bob Krakower, known for his work at Juilliard, the Atlantic Theatre Company, and with major stage and screen productions.
Hands-on training: Live scene work, self-taping techniques, and individual feedback to help you stand out in today’s casting environment.
Networking opportunities: Connect with peers and industry professionals to expand your creative circle.
Who should attend: Emerging Louisiana-based actors, with priority given to Greater New Orleans residents.
Screenwriting Intensives & Speaker Series
For writers who want to elevate their storytelling and break into the industry.
Selective and supportive: 4–6 emerging writers per intensive, each developing an original short set in or inspired by New Orleans.
Led by working professionals: Past speakers and workshop leaders include Tom Fontana (Oz, Borgia), Bradford Winters (The Americans, Oz), and other acclaimed TV and film writers and producers.
Collaborative experience: Writers’ room–style workshops, peer feedback, and group discussions about the art and business of screenwriting.
Practical industry skills: Pitch practice, career advice, and insights into navigating the professional writing landscape.
Community connection: Opportunities to network with fellow writers, filmmakers, and potential collaborators.
Who should attend: Emerging screenwriters with a passion for storytelling and a connection to New Orleans culture.
Roadmap to the Soul for Artists
A workshop series dedicated to unlocking emotional accessibility and deepening character work.
Transformative training: Led by experienced facilitators Dean and HollyKem Sunseri, Roadmap to the Soul for Artists helps actors, writers, and storytellers overcome emotional and psychological barriers that can limit their work.
Creative exploration: Through guided exercises and scene work, participants learn to tap into authentic emotion and bring greater depth to their performances or writing.
Open to all storytellers: The workshop benefits anyone looking to tell more truthful, resonant stories — whether on stage, on screen, or on the page.
Who should attend: Actors, writers, and other creatives who want to connect more deeply with their characters and stories.
Why FAC Events Are Different
Intimate settings that allow for meaningful interaction and personalized mentorship.
World-class instructors who are actively shaping the industry.
A focus on community, ensuring that each event not only teaches craft but builds lasting creative relationships.
Free for local artists whenever possible, as a part of our mission to make industry-level training accessible at home.
Past Highlights
Our On-Camera Acting Workshop with Bob Krakower at the historic Francis Ford Coppola House was an immersive two-day experience combining technical skill-building and career mentorship.
Our Screenwriting Intensive & Speaker Series with Tom Fontana paired small-group script development with conversations featuring acclaimed screenwriter Tom Fontana.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a performer, a writer, or a storyteller in any medium, FAC offers opportunities to grow your craft and connect with the New Orleans creative community.
Stay Updated: Join our mailing list to hear about upcoming workshops and application openings.
Apply Early: Our events have limited spots and fill quickly.
“Here in the South, we’re often overlooked. But we have stories to tell, too. It’s been great to have so many diverse voices in the room.”
— Luke Harris, Writing Cohort 2024
“After working with Bob this weekend, I genuinely feel a shift—it’s a game changer in how I approach my work. I feel reinvigorated, reinspired, and deeply humbled. It was a rich and meaningful experience.”
— Amy Le, Acting Cohort 2025
“To have someone like Tom Fontana in New Orleans is a really big deal for local writers like myself. Absolutely exciting and inspiring.”
— Kai Tan, Writing Cohort 2024
“It's vital to have opportunities like this in New Orleans. To further our community education but also involvement. I appreciated that there is an application process—that fosters opportunities to connect, and intimacy with the number of participants.”
— Adam Stephenson, Acting Cohort 2025