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.