Live Pitch Experience

A one-night immersive storytelling event inspired by the feature screenplay, The Weight of Silence by Shannan E. Johnson.

THE STORY

The Weight of Silence is a contemporary Southern crime drama feature set against the rarely seen world of Black cowboys in Houston, Texas.

After her estranged father, a revered Black cowboy, is murdered in a string of serial decapitations, a sharp, guarded butcher returns home to bury him and get the hell out of Houston, only to be pulled into an investigation that re-entangles her in a toxic love triangle and exposes a buried family secret she's spent her life running from.

THE EXPERIENCE

The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience is an immersive storytelling event that invites audiences into the world of the feature script of the same name that explores Black rodeo culture, mystery, and family secrets. More than a staged reading, this experience is a bold reimagining of how stories are introduced to Hollywood, blending performance, atmosphere, and innovation.

We're looking for co-conspirators who believe in taking risks, championing original voices, and backing fresh ideas from the ground up.

Help us bring this experience to life

It takes a village to open a gate. Become part of the story behind the story.

Every contribution towards our $20,000 goal will cover the time and talent of our cast and crew and products and services from local businesses.

Join us as we build something extraordinary together.

$1064 raised toward our $20,000 goal
SUPPORT

Interested in becoming an in-kind sponsor or official event partner?
We'd love to hear from you.
Contact us to discuss custom partnership opportunities.

CONTACT US

The Team

  • Shannan E. Johnson, Writer/EP, The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience

    Shannan E. Johnson

    WRITER/EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
    Former TV exec turned screenwriter and CEO + Head Consultant of The Professional Pen, a script consultancy developing screenwriters from idea to pitch.
    Credits: Syfy, FOX, Hallmark, allblk

  • Jason Dirden

    Director
    An actor, writer and director; Jason's work has stretched from Broadway to the screen. Working opposite the likes of Denzel Washington and Viola Davis, his audience favorites include Greenleaf, American Soul and Power Book III: Raising Kanan.

  • Artis J. Olds, Creative Director, The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience

    Artis J. Olds

    CREATIVE DIRECTOR
    Through The Art Is Brand, Artis partners with artists, institutions, and organizations to shape experiences rooted in culture.
    Credits: STOMP, October London, Kanye West, Expo 2025 Osaka

  • LATex Media, Event Partner, The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience

    LATEX Media

    EVENT PARTNER
    LATex Media is a multi-platform production company that develops and produces bold & authentic narrative film and television content for global audiences through innovative storytelling, strategic partnerships, and branded networking events.
    Team: Rodney Turner, Founder/CEO, Tawana Turner, Partner


  • Sista Brunch, Production Partner, The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience

    Sista Brunch

    PRODUCTION PARTNER
    Sista Brunch is a Black women-led podcast centering honest conversations with Black women and Black gender expansive creatives working across film, television, and media.
    Team: Fanshen Cox Co-Creator/EP/Host, Maegan Philmore Producer, Narrative

  • Stefan Paris, Sponsorships Producer, The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience

    Stefen Paris

    SPONSORSHIP PRODUCER
    Stefen Paris is a screenwriter, creative strategist, and civic and community engagement connector. His work allows him to bring people, brands, and stories together through meaningful partnerships, authentic storytelling, and experiences that create lasting impact.

  • Shari Bihms-Ervin, Sponsorship Producer, The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience

    Shari “Ri” Bihms-Ervin

    SPONSORSHIP PRODUCER
    An entertainment event producer and fundraising strategist specializing in high-profile events, film initiatives, and impactful experiences, Shari connects creatives, brands, and investors through events that inspire engagement and lasting partnerships.

EVENT FAQ’s

  • Contributions support the production of The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience, including technical elements, creative talent, guest experience, and event operations. Contributions support the event itself and do not represent an investment in the feature film.

  • Contributions to The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience are not currently tax-deductible. Organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities or alternative giving arrangements are encouraged to contact us.

  • Absolutely. We welcome conversations with businesses, organizations, and individuals interested in sponsorship opportunities, in-kind support, or custom partnerships. Please contact us to learn more.

  • The Weight of Silence Live Pitch Experience is not a traditional ticketed event. The evening is designed to introduce the story to industry professionals, creative collaborators, and supporters who can help move the project forward.

    Our goal is to put the right people in the room and give this story its best opportunity to become a feature film. By supporting the event, our co-conspirators become part of that journey and help make the next chapter possible.