In January 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Cairo joined forces with the Middle East Media Initiative (MEMI) and Egyptian script development hub Birthmark Scenario to host a series of workshops for television scriptwriters. These sessions were designed to provide Egyptian screenwriters with direct interaction with experienced American writers, introducing them to the "Writers' Room" format prevalent in the U.S. television industry.
This initiative aligns with the Embassy's efforts to support Egypt's creative arts sector and nurture emerging talent among Egyptian screenwriters.
The workshops featured prominent figures such as David Isaacs (Cheers, Mad Men), Larry Balmagia (M*A*S*H), Larry Andries (Six Feet Under, Alias), and Terri Kopp (In Contempt, Law & Order). They guided selected Egyptian showrunners, screenwriters, and producers through the program.
Deana Nassar, MEMI Program Director, stated, "This workshop opportunity offered established and emerging Egyptian TV writers and producers valuable tools to develop and sell Egyptian stories in the global TV marketplace." The initiative also aims to foster enduring professional relationships between creative communities in both countries.
MEMI is supported by the U.S. Department of State in collaboration with the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. It organizes training sessions and creative collaborations for TV, media, and digital professionals from both regions. Additionally, MEMI facilitates script development workshops in the U.S., masterclasses with leading American TV showrunners, and job shadowing opportunities on American television productions for Egyptian participants.