deadCenter University Screenwriting Workshop at
Rose State College
deadCenter University Screenwriting Workshop at Rose State College was a free, multi-session program held in early 2025 for high school and college students interested in screenwriting. Led by industry professionals, including Kyle Kauwika Harris, Chris Hoyt, Matt Payne, Victor Caballero and Marcus Mallard, the workshop covered storytelling structure, character development, and professional formatting. Held across four sessions, it provided selected participants with hands-on mentorship and the opportunity to develop original scripts. Two standout participants were chosen to write scripts for short films later produced and premiered at the 25th Annual deadCenter Film Festival.
Sponsored by
Clandestine
Written by Ariana Almeida
Clandestine follows Silvia, a young immigrant custodian whose quiet routines mask a rich inner world. As she finds connection with a fellow worker, her hidden creative passion begins to surface, leading her to reimagine the life she thought she was limited to.
Eleanor
Written by Makinley Paige Montez
Eleanor is a dedicated and passionate young dancer at the height of her training. When unexpected challenges threaten her future, she's forced to reexamine her identity beyond the world of dance. As she navigates personal struggles, shifting priorities, and complex relationships, Eleanor begins a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and transformation.
SCREENWRITING MENTORS
CHRIS HOYT
KYLE KAUWIKA HARRIS
MATT PAYNE
Screenwriting @ Rose State
Marcus Mallard is the Program Coordinator for the Film Studies & Digital Media program at Rose State College, where he also serves as a Professor of English.
With a strong background in screenwriting, digital storytelling, and Avid-certified editing, Marcus is dedicated to providing students with hands-on, industry-relevant experience. He led the development of Rose State’s A.A.S. in Film Studies & Digital Media and actively partners with organizations like deadCenter University to mentor aspiring filmmakers through immersive production workshops. Marcus is passionate about empowering students to find their creative voice and build meaningful careers in film and media.
MARCUS MALLARD
Victor Caballero is an award-winning producer and director of independent films. His latest film, “Seeker,” has won Best Thriller and Best Directing awards at regional film festivals.
One of Victor’s passions is teaching students the art of cinema. Since 2017, he has provided hands-on filmmaking experience through the OKCine Latino Film Institute, where each student has the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and tools needed to become filmmakers. Since taking the lead in deadCenter’s education programming in August 2023, Victor has brought dC’s Statewide Education Tour to more than 14,000 students, giving them an introduction to filmmaking and a workforce development experience tol help them gauge their interest in a film career.
Jóvenes Latinos Emprendedores Profesionales recently named Victor to its list of 20 Under 40 young Latino Entrepreneurs and Professionals, and he will receive the Bare Bones International Film Festival’s Trailblazer Award in early May.
