Los Angeles: Writers Workshop with Hollywood Writers

A Unique Writers Workshop in Los Angeles Led by Emmy-Winning TV Writer

This 1.5-hour writers workshop in Los Angeles offers a rare glimpse into the world of professional television writing. Led by Jim Vallely, an Emmy award-winning TV writer, and Maggie Rowe, a best-selling author, the experience combines expert coaching with an authentic writers’ room setting. The tour takes place at Jim and Maggie’s home in Los Angeles, specifically in a poolside cabana, providing an intimate setting for aspiring writers.

What sets this workshop apart is its hands-on approach. Participants get the chance to workshop their own scripts, learn how to conquer writer’s block, and discuss what makes a strong opening. The session also includes tea from the garden and coffee with pastries, creating a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere. Although the experience is short, its focus on practical tips and direct participation makes it highly valuable for those interested in the craft of storytelling.

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Key Points

• Led by Emmy-winning TV writer Jim Vallely and author Maggie Rowe.
• Includes participation in a real writers’ room setup.
• Focuses on developing script openings and overcoming writer’s block.
• Held at Jim and Maggie’s Los Angeles home in a poolside cabana.
• Small group size limited to 10 participants for personalized attention.
• Includes tea, coffee, and pastries, creating a cozy learning environment.

Meet Jim Vallely: An Emmy Award-Winning Guide

The workshop is led by Jim Vallely, whose credentials include an Emmy award for his work in television. His experience in the industry brings depth to the session, as he shares tips of the trade and explains what makes a great beginning in a script. Participants benefit from his practical insights, delivered in an accessible, friendly manner.

Jim’s background ensures that the workshop is informative for aspiring writers seeking real-world advice. His approach emphasizes casting aside writer’s block and finding the creative muse, making the session especially helpful for those struggling with starting or continuing their scripts.

Maggie Rowe’s Role in the Workshop

Joining Jim is Maggie Rowe, a best-selling author with a talent for storytelling. She brings a personal touch to the session by guiding participants through discussions about story beginnings and sharing her insights on crafting compelling narratives. Maggie is also involved in workshopping a script, providing constructive feedback that mimics the environment of a TV writers’ room.

Her presence enhances the workshop by balancing industry expertise with literary skill, making it a perfect blend for writers interested in both screenwriting and prose.

The Authentic Writers’ Room Experience

One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity to participate in a real-life writers’ room. Maggie Rowe selects a script from the group—possibly your own—and works on the beginning in a collaborative setting. This practical exercise is designed to demonstrate how professional writers develop story ideas, discuss scene structure, and refine dialogue.

This part of the session is interactive and engaging, giving participants a taste of what it’s like to write for television. The small group size ensures that everyone receives personalized attention during the workshop.

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The Setting: Jim and Maggie’s Los Angeles Home

The workshop is held in a delightful outdoor space at Jim and Maggie’s residence. The poolside cabana offers a comfortable and inspiring environment for learning, with garden tea adding a relaxing touch. The casual atmosphere encourages open discussion and creative exchange, making it ideal for writers of all experience levels.

Since the session takes place at their home, the environment feels more like a friendly gathering than a formal class. Participants should be prepared for an intimate setting that fosters personal interaction.

Food, Drink, and Small Group Dynamics

Participants enjoy tea from the garden alongside coffee and pastries from a nearby local shop. These refreshments contribute to a casual, convivial atmosphere and help fuel creative conversations.

The group is limited to 10 participants, ensuring close interaction with Jim and Maggie. This small size allows for more tailored feedback and deeper engagement, making every participant’s voice heard.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The workshop is designed for flexibility, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later, which makes planning more convenient amid changing schedules.

The activity is entirely in English and wheelchair accessible, accommodating a variety of guests. The main location is Jim and Maggie’s Los Angeles home, with the session held outdoors in a poolside cabana.

Who Should Enroll in This Writers Workshop

This experience is best suited for aspiring writers, screenwriters, or storytellers interested in learning from industry professionals. Whether you want to improve your script openings or gain insight into the television writing process, this workshop offers practical advice and hands-on experience.

Participants who enjoy small, intimate settings and interactive learning will find this tour especially rewarding. However, those seeking a longer or more comprehensive workshop may need to explore other options.

Comparing Similar Experiences in Los Angeles

While this workshop is unique in its personalized approach and home setting, similar experiences like studio tours or general city sightseeing are available. For example, the Universal Studios Hollywood general admission ticket or the Warner Bros. Studio tour offer studio access but lack the hands-on script development focus of this workshop.

This tour’s emphasis on practical script work and personalized feedback makes it stand out among Los Angeles activities centered on Hollywood.

Final Thoughts on the Los Angeles Writers Workshop

This short yet impactful workshop provides valuable insights into the craft of storytelling, especially for aspiring television writers. The combination of expert guidance by Jim Vallely and interactive script work with Maggie Rowe offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood writing.

While the 1.5-hour duration means it’s not a comprehensive course, the personalized attention and engaging environment make it a worthwhile experience for those eager to enhance their writing skills and understand the industry better.

Anyone seeking a practical, intimate, and inspiring workshop in Los Angeles focused on script beginnings and overcoming writer’s block will find this experience highly beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the workshop last?
The workshop lasts 1.5 hours.

What is included in the experience?
Participants receive tips from Jim Vallely, participate in a real writers’ room with Maggie Rowe, and enjoy tea, coffee, and pastries.

Where does the workshop take place?
It is held at Jim and Maggie’s Los Angeles home, specifically in a poolside cabana.

Is the group size large or small?
The workshop is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, interactive group.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the session.

Do I need to have writing experience?
While experience isn’t mandatory, the workshop is especially useful for writers interested in television and script development.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the workshop is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring or prepare?
Participants can work on their own scripts, so bringing your script or ideas is encouraged, but not mandatory.

Can I reserve my spot now and pay later?
Absolutely, booking now with pay later allows flexible planning.

Is this suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, the small group setting and interactive approach make it appropriate for beginners and experienced writers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby