fem script lab
Founded in 2015, FEM SCRIPT LAB is a writing lab for women and non-binary screenwriters in Ontario, held at The Theatre Centre. The lab is a place for screenwriters to share and receive feedback on work that is in development.
We support screenwriters at the development stage while providing professional development through masterclasses, networking opportunities, and industry events.
our mission
Our mission is to nurture screenwriters, invest in women-driven stories and create a community that promotes women as creators of content. We provide peer and mentor feedback as well as actor reading sessions in an environment that encourages innovation and creative risk-taking.
FEM SCRIPT LAB encourages submissions from trans women and non-binary people. We aim to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all screenwriters to share their work.
FSL is made possible with the generous support of Ontario Arts Council and Toronto Arts Council.
TESTIMONIALS
from our featured writers and industry mentors…
MONICA ZOU
Featured Writer – November 2018
“Participating in the FEM Script Lab was an amazing experience. It was the first time I got to hear a table read of my script, along with candid feedback from readers who have never seen the show bible (like real audiences). The different voices across the table opened my eyes to the multitude of perspectives and interpretations of my story, which will definitely serve to make the next draft even better. The emphasis on strong women on and off the page is also greatly appreciated; my voice was heard and valued which meant the world to me.”
JANET MACLEAN
Industry Mentor – May 2019
“FEM Script Lab offers a fantastic, well-run opportunity for female and non-binary writers to workshop their scripts and receive the feedback they need to raise their work to the next level. I had a great time acting as mentor for an evening, and found the event stimulating and even inspiring. The actors and writers gathered around the table were supportive of one another, insightful, energetic, and creative ⏤ just the sort of community writers need to produce their best work. FEM Script Lab is a terrific way to raise female voices in film and television.”
RAKHEE MORZARIA
Featured Writer – August 2018
“Daphney Joseph and I had parsed over our script and believed it was sitting in a great spot. The FEM Script Lab allowed us to gain valuable feedback on pieces we'd missed, where to clarify moments, as well as technical aspects in formatting. In all, the whole experience was very empowering. We felt confident we were on the right track and were given tools to bring our script to the next level.”
CHRIS ROSS
Featured Writer – March 2019
“Thanks to FEM Script Lab, I was able to tackle my feature script revisions with a clear idea of the changes I needed to make to elevate my screenplay to the next level. The combination of the actors’ performances and the feedback I received on the script was incredibly valuable, and has given me a much-needed fresh perspective on the story. Professional and productive ⏤ I highly recommend this experience!”
JILL GOLICK
Industry Mentor – November 2018
”FEM Script Lab is an incredible resource for creators. Hearing your work read by actors and the feedback of peers is invaluable in the writing process and essential to getting intellectual property market ready. The presence of a more experienced writer mentor is also fantastic. Techniques, strategies and approaches to writing are passed down and senior writers are connected to newer, younger talent. I found the level of writing and professionalism in the lab impressive.”
BRONWYN SZABO
Featured Writer – September 2018
“FEM Script Lab gave me the most comprehensive and efficient notes I could have asked for on my project. Knowing that I was being cheered on to go and implement the constructive feedback I got made me excited for my next rewrite, and the opportunity to be personally coached by an esteemed industry mentor was a huge honour. It totally blew the door open to me on a project I’d previously felt had come to a creative standstill. I’d highly recommend this to any female-identifying or non-binary writer!”
