So, a thread has been created with the first stage: "A Story in Pictures"
I ask all participants to familiarize themselves with it and start preparing for task 1 of this stage. :)

By the way, we have a new participant, Gordon Byron; his application is not in the thread because he sent it to me privately and wished to remain anonymous! Gordon Byron is his pseudonym! He really wants to participate and have fun at the contest! :)

That makes a total of 14 people. If there are any more who want to join, they are welcome, but please submit your prepared assignment for Stage 1 right away. The last day for submitting assignments (approximately March 11th) will also be the last day for accepting applications! :)