Tue
Mar 10
6:30 PM
The Film Workshop: From Idea to Screen
Select Artist Workshop
Beginner-Friendly
Writing & Film
Date & Time
Tuesday, March 10
6:30 PM
—
9:30 PM
Workshop Description
The Film Workshop is a 3-hour hands-on session led by acclaimed Palestinian American filmmaker Suha Araj, offering rare insight into the real creative process behind shaping stories for the screen. Through a screening of her award-winning short film Rosa and an insider script walkthrough, participants will learn how ideas evolve into structured narratives — including how to write and format a screenplay, develop compelling characters, shape pacing, and apply storytelling techniques used across film and writing. The workshop also covers how to create a lookbook to define tone and mood, and introduces the tools and resources writers and filmmakers use to bring their work to life. Across 3–4 guided creative rounds of prompts and exercises, participants will generate, refine, and clarify their own ideas, with time for questions, feedback, and discussion throughout. You’ll leave with practical insider knowledge, new creative momentum, and a clear foundation for developing your story — whether for film, script, or other written work. No prior film or writing experience required — beginners encouraged! Whether you're a film enthusiast, a writer, or someone looking to learn about different creative mediums with community, this class is for you!
What you'll learn
how films go from concept to structure
how to write a script & format it
character development and pacing
key techniques for effective storytelling
how to build a lookbook to set tone & mood
online tools & resources to use when creating your own film
What you'll take home
a story concept ready to expand into a script or written work
practical insider knowledge of how films and screenplays are actually created
understanding of screenplay format, structure, and pacing
knowledge on how to build compelling characters & emotional storylines
list of recommended tools and workflows used by filmmakers
direct insight and answers to your questions from an award-winning filmmaker
About your instructor
Palestinian-American filmmaker, Suha Araj, is a New York-based writer and director from Ohio who has never had a thigh gap. Her passion lies in telling diaspora stories with humor and detail in order to find our universal connections. She has been supported and awarded along the way and continues to try on new genres and mediums. When she’s not creating a project you can find her directing romantic comedy podcasts, unknowingly mispronouncing words and reading your horoscope.
What can I expect from a workshop at Atelier Dalal?
Workshops are small and hands-on, emphasizing educational instruction on an extensive range of art forms. Our instructors provide 1on1 instruction and guidance during the workshop, and all introductory courses are beginner-friendly.
You will always leave one of our workshops with something you made, plus the knowledge to keep exploring at home.
Cancellation policy
Tickets for this event are non-refundable, so please double-check your calendar before booking! If you're unable to attend, you're welcome to pass your ticket along to a friend—just have them check in under your name!
Photography disclaimer
Please note that by attending, all guests consent to being photographed and filmed. These images and recordings may be used for marketing or promotional purposes at the discretion of Atelier Dalal.
Age restriction & dogs
All guests must be 18 or older to attend. As much as we love your fur babies, pets are not permitted in the studio.








