Masterclass: 10 Laws of Vertical Storytelling
Masterclass: 10 Laws of Vertical Storytelling
What makes a story truly work on the vertical screen? Richard Lawson and Denee Busbee of Hyperlens share ten practical principles for creating stories specifically for the format. This masterclass explores the creative choices that shape compelling vertical storytelling, from structure and pacing to performance and visual composition, offering a framework for creators looking to make the most of the screen.
Saturday, October 17, 2026
11:00 AM · AMC 19th Street, Theater 1
Richard Lawson
Co-Founder of Hyperlens Studios · Hyperlens Studios
Richard Lawson is an acclaimed actor, director, educator, and co-founder of Hyperlens Studios. Across a six-decade career, his credits span film, television, and theater, including Poltergeist, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, and Beauty in Black. He founded Richard Lawson Studios in 2005 and has dedicated much of his career to mentoring artists. Through Hyperlens Studios, Lawson is helping develop new models for storytelling, distribution, creator ownership, and sustainable creative careers.
Denee Busby
Co-Founder of Hyperlens Studios · Hyperlens Studios
Denee Busby-Howard is a producer, showrunner, capital strategist, and co-founder of Hyperlens Studios. She currently serves as showrunner of Legacy on BET+ and has produced projects including Angel, Lot Patrol, and The Stray House. Working across traditional production and the growing micro-drama space, she combines creative development with expertise in film financing, tax incentives, and distribution, building new pathways for creators and culturally resonant storytelling across platforms.
