The Filmmaking program is a progressive and comprehensive curriculum that offers introductory through advanced filmmaking classes in a hands-on environment working with state-of-the-art equipment. The program focuses on filmmaking technique, emphasizing the pre-production process, visual storytelling, and artistic style. Click the button below to find our course catalog.
In-person fall classes start September 20. Save your child’s spot today – classes sell out every year!
FUNDAMENTALS OF FILMMAKING
(GRADES 6-8)
In this class, students learn the critical elements of making a narrative film, including the pre-production process (organizing your film, logistics, visualization, stylistic choices), to production (principles of cinematography and sound) and post-production techniques. This fast-paced, comprehensive course lays the foundation for any serious filmmaker looking to create their own project and is a prerequisite for the Narrative Filmmaking Project class and the Conservatory Film Program at Imagination Stage.
FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER 2D & 3D ANIMATION
(GRADES 6-12)
Students will learn the “tradigital” medium of animation and illustration. Explore the fundamental principles of animation and learn how to create projects with FireAlpaca 2D animation software in Fundamentals of Computer 2D Animation, then move on to Computer 3D Animation, where you will gain hands-on experience with Blender – a free software for creation and animation in 3D.
FILM HISTORY & THEATRE
(GRADES 7-12)
How do we determine which movies are “good” or “bad”? This introductory course will highlight the brief history of film theory and how the study has impacted the making and reception of movies we all love and hate. The course will impart tools which will make students more effective in analyzing motion pictures.
HIGH SCHOOL FILMMAKING INTENSIVE
(GRADES 9-12)
This comprehensive, two-day workshop is for the highly motivated, but very busy, high school student who wants a serious fast track through the film curriculum. The focus is on critical elements of making a narrative film, from the pre-production process (organization, logistics, visualization and stylistic choices) to production (cinematography and sound) and post-production techniques. Regardless of the level a student enters this class, there is much information to be learned and will give the student a solid foundation as they work through the curriculum and independently as filmmakers.
NARRATIVE FILMMAKING PROJECT
(GRADES 7-12)
In this production class, students will apply knowledge from previous classes or camps to create a fully-fledged short narrative film.
FILMMAKING CONSERVATORY WORKSHOPS
(GRADES 9-12)
In these workshops students will focus on the three essential and complex areas of directing, lighting, and sound. These workshops are a stepping-stone (and required) for students who wish to advance to the Independent Film Study Program.
Please note: in order to register for the conservatory workshops, students must have taken one of the following: High School Filmmaking Intensive Workshop, Narrative Filmmaking Project, or a 3-week filmmaking summer camp.
DIRECTING WORKSHOP
Students will gain insights into working with actors (terminology and techniques, rehearsal process), script analysis, breakdowns, and budgets.
LIGHTING WORKSHOP
Students learn advanced concepts and techniques (theory and practice) of using light to tell stories and create mood.
SOUND DESIGN WORKSHOP
Students gain knowledge and skills in recording and post-production sound design.
INDEPENDENT FILM STUDY
(GRADES 9-12)
Write, produce, and direct your own short film from concept to final product using Imagination Stage equipment under the guidance of a filmmaking mentor.
(GRADES 9-12)
Actors interested in the medium of film learn the unique techniques of working in front of the camera by rehearsing for and performing a fully-fledged original movie.
DAVID STERN
Director of Digital Media
David Stern has been in the film industry for over 30-years. He has worked for a number of production companies in New York and Washington as a writer, director, producer, and editor, making dozens of short narratives, documentaries, and promotional videos. The Forgiving (theforgivingmovie.com) is David’s third feature film as writer/director, along with Loopholes and Dead Giveaway. David has taught film at George Washington University and currently at Imagination Stage, where he is also the Director of Digital Media and film instructor. David has won a number of awards including: CINE Golden Eagle, IAC London International Film Festival Gold Seal, TCG National Video Contest, and Silver PEER Award.
TRYKA FILM COALITION
The Tryka Film Coalition consists of high school students who want to make films or be part of a filmmaking community. Although housed at Imagination Stage, high school students connect with each other to learn about and produce films. Meetings are once per month and free.
For more information and to see some of their work: trykafilm.com.
