2026 CFF First Act Script Lab
Wednesday, November 4 | 11 AM | Tempest Studios
PINEVILLE – PILOT (ACT ONE) | Maya Connell
Three months after returning to her small Pennsylvania hometown, 22-year-old aspiring writer Cameron “Cam” Valentine finds herself slipping back into a life she thought she had outgrown.
THE THINGS SHE DIDN’T SAY | Nicki Marie Schreier
Ellie Johnson, a high school senior and lacrosse captain, struggles under the pressure of academics, college recruiters, and her parents’ expectations.
THE COLLAR | Elijah Johri
Braxton (late 20s), is maintaining track for a railroad with his gang when he meets Bruce (18) through his job. Working together Braxton gives Bruce a haunting warning.
A POOL FULL OF NIGHTMARES | Venus Bayat
Based on the short story “A Pool Full of Nightmares” by Bijan Najdi. After twenty years away, Morteza returns to his hometown and, on his very first day back, is arrested for killing a swan.
How it works:
The first act of each script will be brought to life by local actors in a staged reading, offering the unique opportunity to get involved in the development of locally-grown projects. You will be there to offer immediate feedback and insights, helping the writers fine-tune their scripts for the screen.
Based on your votes and feedback, the first act that most compels you will receive the first-ever Made In PA cash award to be used for research, development, and production purposes anywhere in Pennsylvania.