78. Crafting a TV Pilot with Christina Pumariega

In this episode, Jennifer talks to Christina Pumariega all about the tangible aspects of TV writing, pilots, and storytelling. Puma shares what inspired her to write her first pilot, how she ended up landing a writer’s room gig, and the importance of community. They delve into the intricacies of structure - from creating compelling loglines to storyengines to ABC breakdowns to character descriptions. They discuss the art of breaking story, carding, the challenges of both starting and ending a script, and the messy process of writing. Plus they share the value of persistence & discipline,   seeking feedback & mentorship, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.

About Christina: Christina Pumariega acts and writes. Often simultaneously. She is the author of VOS! (Crossing Borders Festival at Two River Theater), Joan Dark (DCPA Colorado New Play Summit, Jane Chambers Prize runner-up, O’Neill NPC finalist), Lei Chiede/She Asks (O’Neill NPC finalist) and Her Math Play (EST/Sloan Foundation in collaboration with Hartford Stage Company, BAPF finalist). Her plays have been developed at Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater, the New Harmony Project, the Lark, New Georges, Hartford Stage Company and Ammunition Theatre Company. She is currently under commission by Denver Center for the Performing Arts and Two River Theater. TV writing credits include “Turner & Hooch” (Disney+) and “Bluff City Law” (NBC). Acting on and Off-Broadway and in television and film, Pumariega has cross examined Coach Taylor, made out with the Fly and set a Cuban pharmacy ablaze in a corset. She’s been an Expert Contributor to BackStage Magazine and has taught at Yale, NYU, Pace and other institutions. Pumariega created and leads the collective Más Páginas: both a writers’ group dedicated to nurturing diverse voices; and playwriting and screenwriting classes held entirely online. Born and raised all over the south, her father is Cuban, her mother is Italian-American. MFA Acting, NYU.

Christina’s IG: @christinapumariega

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