Collaborate with us on the backstory for Azeglio Manzella, one of the supporting characters in THE DISCO BALL. We are seeking a writer to tell Azeglio’s backstory as a scripted short story, which will ultimately become a core consumptive component of Chapter 1.
Submission Guidelines
Interested writers should submit an original short script based on the included story context and creative considerations.
Submissions should be:
- English language
- 3-5 pages
- Written in script format
- First person narration in the voice of Azeglio Manzella
Story Context
The seeds of Azeglio’s backstory are planted in Chapter 1 during Captain Alma Cooke’s discussion with Dr. Bauer:
“Az was overseeing two experiments that failed in the last 72 hours. He was pretty upset, and the teams on the ground were too, but as near as I can tell he did everything he was supposed to. Sometimes things just fail. Gave him the day to try to put it behind him. In a much longer conversation, perhaps months from now and back on Earth, I might mention that this is what I wanted to believe, but something about Az’s panic at the first failure gave me the sense that it was a result of something he did or didn’t do, though I genuinely couldn’t say what. Then again, that experiment had something to do with cultivating a type of cell that might be used to treat optic nerve damage, and I know that Az is incredibly close to his father who’s blind, so maybe the failure just hit too close to home.”
Creative Considerations
The goal is to create a comprehensive backstory written like a short story with a clear beginning middle and end, but in script format and with the freedom to include dialogue with other characters from Azeglio’s life. In short, make Azeglio a three-dimensional character.
Questions that may be addressed include:
- What got him passionate about science and space exploration in the first place?
- What is the nature of his relationship with his father, and how have they bonded despite the inherent challenges of his father’s blindness?
- Does he have a history of latent anxiety or mental health struggles?
Interested writers should submit an original short script specifically written for Azeglio’s backstory (creative portfolio and writing sample optional).
Our creative team will review all submitted applications, considering narrative writing proficiency, creativity, and alignment with the creative guidelines and existing world of THE DISCO BALL. The writer whose script best meets the criteria will be contacted and provided with feedback. This may involve discussions on refining plot points, touching up dialogue, or changing narrative details to ensure the design aligns with the vision of the character, episode, and franchise.
The writer’s whose script is chosen will work closely with the creative team to finalize, incorporating feedback and making any necessary revisions.
Once finalized, the approved short story will be integrated into the story, appearing in Chapter 1 of THE DISCO BALL core narrative.
Writer will be appropriately credited and recognized for their contributions.