What a thrill to produce The Writers Lab’s 2021 U.S. Lab this past week!
Supported by Meryl, Oprah and Nicole (no last names needed!) TWL is the only program in the world devoted exclusively to script development for women-identifying writers over 40. The ongoing uncertainty of Covid meant this year’s retreat was virtual, but that fact allowed TWL to select 17 writers (versus the usual 12) to participate. Juggling 17 writers, 17 mentors, 22 industry guests, and 40 alumni writers was no small feat, but a great producing team (on 2 continents!) pulled it off without a hitch.
2021 Lab participants
And check out just a few of this year’s incredible mentors and guests!
Priya Amritraj - VP of Television and Film, Hyde Park Entertainement
Michael Arndt - writer, Little MIss Sunshine, Star Wars VII, Toy Story 3
Amy Herzog - writer, HBO’s Scenes from a Marriage, Obie winning plays Mary Jane and 4000 Miles
Rita Hsiao - writer, Mulan, Toy Story 2
Riva Marker - producer, Beasts of No Nation, The Kids are Alright
Michelle Satter - founder, Sundance Institute Feature Film Program
Tracy Scott WIlson - writer, Respect, Fosse/Verdon, The Morning Show)
Mary Jane Skalski - producer, The Station Agent, The Visitor
Frida Torresblanco - producer, Pan’s Labyrinth, Rudo y Cursi
You can see the full list of 2021 Lab Participants and scripts—as well as Finalists and semifinalists (selected from over 1,000 submissions!)— HERE
The Lab is presented by co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon, with New York Women in Film & Television, and in collaboration with the Writers Guild of America, East, with in-kind support from The Black List, Falco Ink, Film Fatales, Filmarket Hub, Final Draft, and Roadmap Writers.