Mosalsalat Screenwriters Lab (MSL) is a selective development lab for Arab screenwriters working on original narrative television series projects.
The Lab is designed for writers at an early professional stage who are developing their first or second original series, and who already have a completed pilot script and prior professional experience in film or television.
MSL focuses on the specific creative and structural demands of long-form serial storytelling. This includes episodic structure, character engines, season arcs, and the narrative thinking required to sustain a story over multiple episodes. It is not an introductory workshop, nor a general screenwriting course.
The Lab operates within the realities of the Arab television ecosystem while engaging with international series development practices and standards. It aims to support writers in strengthening the narrative foundations of their projects and in developing tools that can be applied to future series work.
Participation in MSL does not guarantee commissioning, production, financing, or distribution.
What the Lab Focuses On
Mosalsalat Screenwriters Lab is project-centered. Development work during the Lab may include:
- Strengthening the pilot episode as the foundation of the series
- Clarifying the series concept and long-term narrative engine
- Developing character systems capable of sustaining episodic storytelling
- Articulating the first season arc and its internal progression
- Exploring tone, genre, and audience positioning within regional and international contexts
Development takes place through one-on-one consultations with creative advisors, alongside group discussions and structured peer feedback.
Who the Lab Is For
MSL is intended for Arab screenwriters who:
- Are working on their first or second original narrative television series
- Have a completed pilot script for the submitted project
- Have prior professional experience in film and/or television
- Are ready to engage critically with their work and the work of others
- Can commit to full, in-person participation in the Lab if selected
Applicants may apply as independent screenwriters, co-writers, or writer-directors.
Who the Lab Is Not For
MSL is not suitable for applicants who:
- Are developing feature films (see Rawi Screenwriters Lab)
- Are at an introductory or training level in screenwriting
- Do not yet have a completed pilot episode
- Are developing projects that are already in production, commissioned, sold, or publicly distributed
- Are seeking production funding or market attachment through the Lab
Lab Format
Mosalsalat Screenwriters Lab is delivered as an intensive five-day, in-person lab in Jordan.
Selected participants are expected to attend all sessions, prepare materials when required, and actively participate in discussions and peer feedback.
The Lab is conducted in a professional working environment that values seriousness, openness, generosity, and mutual respect.
Language and Translation Support
MSL is primarily designed for Arab screenwriters. Application materials may be submitted in Arabic or English, as specified in the application guidelines.
The working language of the Lab includes English. Translation and/or interpretation support may be provided on a case-by-case basis, subject to the needs of the selected participants and the Lab’s logistical capacity.
Requests for language support do not affect eligibility or selection and do not constitute a guarantee that such support will be provided.
