The Disney ABC Writing Program is one of the most prestigious writing programs in the entertainment industry for emerging writers. Every year, thousands of aspiring screenwriters and television writers apply through a rigorous process that involves crafting original spec scripts and submitting application materials, including a key introductory essay. This essay header is one of the first impressions prospective candidates make on the program’s selection committee. As such, it is crucial to spend time thoughtfully crafting an effective header that encapsulates your unique voice and creative vision.
Your essay header should aim to capture the evaluators’ attention within the first few lines in order to compel them to read on. It sets the stage for the reader to get to know you and your writing strengths through the essay that follows. While there are no strict guidelines for the header, focusing on the key elements of establishing your authentic voice, connecting to the Disney brand values, and generating intrinsic reader interest will help position you as a strong candidate.
One of the most important aspects is crafting an authentic, genuine writer’s voice from the very beginning. The selection committee is looking for candidates who are able to authentically express their creativity and storytelling instincts. Rather than copying pre-determined headers you’ve seen work for others, take time to reflect on your inspirations, influences and what excites you most about being a writer. Personal anecdotes, specific genres or story aspects you’re passionate about, and any insights into your creative evolution can help capture your individuality while also making an emotional connection with readers.
Expressing a clear understanding and passion for the Disney brand identity is also crucial given the program’s exclusive focus on cultivating new writing talent for Disney and ABC projects. Touch upon what inspires you about the company’s legacy of quality family entertainment storytelling, its renowned legacy characters and worlds, or the shared values of optimism, adventure and heart that define so many Disney tales. Reference specific Disney/ABC properties, stories or genres you’re eager to contribute new stories to in order to demonstrate your sincere enthusiasm and alignment with the company’s mission.
In addition to voice and fit with the brand, your header must generate intrinsic reader interest to hook the evaluators into continuing. Consider opening with an intriguing question, quote, brief moment from a story, description of a character or setting, or micro-scene that teases at possibilities. Providing just enough context and mystery to make the reader want to learn more is key. Visual, sensory details can bring your ideas to life on the page in a memorable way. Avoid cliches and keep language concise yet evocative.
Stories often start with the asking of a question, so beginning your essay header with an open-ended question that sets the stage for possible answers within your essay can be an effective hook. For example: “What if a group of misfit toys found their way into a secret workshop one Christmas Eve?” Or posing a thought-provoking quote that hints at themes you’ll explore further: “‘All the world will be your enemy, Prince with a Thousand Enemies, and whenever they catch you, they will kill you…but first they must catch you.’ How far would you go to save your kingdom?” Either approach keeps the reader engaged to understand the context and meaning behind your opener.
Providing a short but vivid micro-scene or moment can also serve to immediately pull evaluators into your narrative universe. For instance: “The dusty attic hid many secrets, but 9-year-old Lucy never expected to find a magical portal concealed behind an old trunk. As she peered inside, a rush of color and light overwhelmed her senses. Where did the strange doorway lead, and what adventures would she find on the other side?” Short excerpts like this utilize descriptive details and a sense of discovery to ignite curiosity about your story and characters. They set an immediate visual tone that lingers in the reader’s mind.
Other highly effective options for essay headers include:
A character-centric opening that introduces an intriguing personality through actions,dialogue or inner thoughts: “As Prince Philip stared out at the darkened castle walls, he wondered if he’d ever truly escape his gilded prison and discover who he was really meant to be.”
Planting the seeds of an interpersonal conflict or situation that leaves questions unanswered: “Evelyn had tried for years to blend into the background and keep her special talents hidden, but when mysterious accidents start plaguing the school play, she’ll have to decide if it’s finally time to embrace what makes her different.”
A brief overview of a key setting that establishes mood and leaves visuals to the imagination: “Beyond the towering redwood forest, at the edge of a cliff overlooking turbulent gray seas, a crumbling Victorian asylum had stood silent and secrets for decades.”
A micro-plot kernel that hints at possibilities: “When a routine test flight goes horribly wrong, pilot Jess Smith awakens to find herself stranded on a bizarre alien world with her experimental spacecraft in ruins. Now she must rely on her wits to survive and search for a way home, if such a place even exists anymore.”
No matter which structure or approach you choose for your essay header, focusing on crafting an authentic, compelling voice through vivid descriptions, memorable characters, intriguing questions or intriguing micro-moments will help capture reader attention in those vital first lines. With practice and feedback, you can refine your abilities to succinctly convey your passions and creative talents to stand out among applicants. Most importantly, let your innate storytelling instincts shine through to connect with evaluators on an emotional level through your writing. With the right header, the rest of your application essay can unfold organically to frame you as a strong emerging talent for the prestigious Disney ABC Writing Program.
Andrew Stroud