Production Zone
The Production Zone: After-School Filmmaking Program
A Hands-On S.T.E.A.M. Adventure
The Production Zone isn’t your typical after-school activity — it’s a project-based, STEAM-powered filmmaking experience where middle school students create their own original short film from the ground up. Over 12 after-school sessions plus one full Saturday production day, students step into real filmmaking roles as they write, plan, shoot, and complete a movie together.
Guided by working industry professionals, students learn how to think like filmmakers, solve problems like engineers, communicate like leaders, and collaborate like a true production team. This is where creativity meets confidence — and where students discover skills that last far beyond the final cut.
Open to Middle School Students
Tuesdays & Thursdays
4:15 PM – 6:15 PM
January 27 – March 5, 2026
PLUS:
One Full Shoot Day — Saturday, February 28
10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
What Makes The Production Zone Different
A True S.T.E.A.M. Program
Filmmaking naturally blends Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Students experiment with light, sound, camera technology, creative design, spatial awareness, timing, and teamwork — all through the fun of creating a film in a professional film studio!
Hands-On Learning With Real Gear
Students use professional cameras, lighting, sound equipment, and stabilizers as they learn how to:
- Set and frame shots
- Capture clean audio
- Light scenes with intention
- Block actors for continuity
- Problem-solve complex on-set challenges
This is not a simulated project — it’s the real deal.
Project-Based Workflow
Every student contributes meaningfully to one completed short film.
They brainstorm, plan, shoot, and review actual footage — building technical skills and creative confidence in the process.
Mentorship From Working Filmmakers
Our instructors are industry professionals who bring real-world experience and an encouraging, youth-centered teaching style. Students get to learn directly from people who do this work every day.
Team-Driven Creativity & Collaboration
Filmmaking is the ultimate teamwork experience. Students learn how to:
- Communicate clearly
- Take on leadership roles
- Support each other’s ideas
- Adapt to challenges
- Make decisions as a crew
These are workforce-ready skills that transfer to every future path.
Technology Literacy
By the end of the program, students understand:
- Camera systems
- Audio recording
- Lighting design
- Set etiquette
- Post-production concepts
This builds confidence with tools and technology that are increasingly important in today’s world.
A Safe, Creative, Inclusive Space
The Movie Institute’s mentoring approach ensures every participant feels: seen, supported, included, and empowered. Kids flourish here — creatively and personally.
Studio Screening & Celebration
Once the film is completed, families are invited to an in-studio premiere where students watch their work on the big screen.
Screening Date: TBA (It’s always a highlight of the program!)
Why It Matters
Making a movie changes how young people see the world. Once they’ve experienced the filmmaking process from the inside, they don’t just watch films differently… they think differently.
They problem-solve differently. They communicate differently. They see themselves differently. This program is where that transformation begins.
Program Tuition
2026 Introductory Rate: $299
(Limited-time pricing for our first session) Regular Tuition: $349
Payment flexibility available upon request.