Write your script with confidence and a guide
The Creative Sherpa
have a great story to tell and
trying to write your script?
Let me help guide you through the development process as a seasoned development executive and successful Exec Producer…as your personal “Creative Sherpa” to reach your highest goal.
I Can Help You Elevate Your Scripts
Mountain climbers have sherpas to help them get to the top. I will be your Creative Sherpa guiding you to success with your script.
I’m Maura Dunbar and I have nearly four decades of experience in the television industry as a Vice President at ABC where I oversaw movies, mini-series and special projects, and later as Senior Vice President or Original Programming and Development at the Hallmark Channel.
During my tenure as a broadcast/cable exec I have overseen the development and production of over 600 hours of programming and have worked with many acclaimed authors, writers and producers such as Stephen King, Larry McMurtry, John Saul, Dean Koontz, Chris Columbus, Brad Silberling, Aaron Spelling, Jon Avnet, Jordan Kerner, Joel Fields, and James Duff, to mention a few.
I expanded my career when I became EVP/Chief Content Officer of Odyssey Networks and President and CEO of Engage Entertainment where I continued to create and produce original programming and expanded into award winning documentaries, an Emmy nominated game show and over 300 original short form videos for a signature mobile app.
Working with writers has always been my greatest passion and in today’s fast changing industry, more and more focus is being placed on finding “finished scripts” leaving many writers to work through the development process alone. That’s where my help comes in, along with my strong commitment to bringing meaningful stories to the screen, which is evident in my hands-on approach to production, from ideation to the final product.
I am here to help give you a full 360 degree perspective and guidance in writing your best screenplay. Let’s work together and I’ll be your Creative Sherpa to help you reach your goal of writing your best script.
A few of my projects:
Working Together
I work with writers to help them develop the scripts that studios, broadcasters, and streamers want to see.
My 40 years of experience is your edge.
The Concept: We begin by looking at your concept, identifying your audience, and making it appealing to a buyer.
Script Logline
In one or two sentences we nail down your elevator pitch.
Script Outline
Outlines can be as short as 5-7 pages or longer detailed 15-20 pages. It is the structure of your story, your character arcs and plot that forms the foundation of your script. Once we feel you have a solid treatment we move on to the next phase.
First Draft
You deliver a first draft for my review and notes. It’s the first pass at laying out a full script and we will spend time on Zoom going through my notes and discussing. You may record the sessions for your review afterward.
First Revision
Often times your First Revision will be about structure, plot, and making sure you’ve set up compelling characters with fulfilling story arcs. As with First Draft, we will go over my notes together either on Zoom or conference call. You may record these sessions for later review.
Second Revision or Final Draft (Optional)
Depending on how the development process has gone and how satisfied we are that your script is in great shape, further revisions may be needed just as if you were in “development”. This step can either be a Second Draft depending on how much work the script needs to be fine-tuned.
Tailored For You
Step into “The Writer’s Sherpa” develoment process, designed by Maura Dunbar, and unlock the secrets to elevating your storytelling prowess. These sessions are crafted for writers of all levels who are eager to explore new creative heights. Under Maura’s guidance, you’ll learn to navigate the complex landscape of writing with confidence, honing your ability to craft compelling narratives that captivate audiences and stand the test of time.
Maura brings her extensive experience in television production and storytelling to each session, offering personalized mentorship that addresses your unique challenges and aspirations. The sessions are interactive and dynamic, ensuring that you gain practical skills and insights that are immediately applicable to their projects. Whether you’re beginning a new screenplay, have a spec script, or just looking to refine your writing techniques, Maura’s expertise will be an invaluable asset.
Writing for television is an art, a science, and a bit of magic. Maura is your guide through the labyrinth of Story Telling.
Maura Dunbar is a highly acclaimed producer and writing coach working with broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms, and writers, to bring high-quality work to the mediums. This is an opportunity to work with a consummate professional who is focused on helping you get your script produced.
