Directing Workshop Filmmaking Class

BACK TO SET IS A TWO DAY DIRECTING MASTERCLASS

  • Downtown LA Directing Class

    2 day in person directing workshop in LA

    Our 2025 Directing Intensive takes place at the South Park Center Theater in Downtown Los Angeles. Join us to learn film directing from industry pros!

  • Directing Workshop

    EXCLUSIVE PANELS + WORKSHOPS

    BACK TO SET features an inspiring lineup of panels, hands-on workshops, and masterclasses led by top industry professionals, all designed to level up your directing career.

  • Top TV Directors

    networking opportunities

    From morning coffee hours to end-of-day mixers, connect with fellow directors, industry leaders, and special guests in a welcoming and collaborative environment. Build your directing community while you learn!

  • Directing Masterclass

    AWD's BTS SYMPOSIUM IS OPEN TO ALL!

    BACK TO SET is a directing workshop open to all genders and experience levels. All are welcome to learn at this directing bootcamp. AWD members receive an exclusive discounted rate.

PRESENTED BY

PANEL SPONSOR

BRAND SPONSOR

ONSITE SPONSORS

INKIND SPONSORS

FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS FOR THE LATEST GUEST + PROGRAMMING UPDATES! MORE TV + FILM INDUSTRY LEADERS TO COME…

*Programming and guests subject to change based on availability.

FEATURED GUESTS

EXCLUSIVE DIRECTING

WORKSHOPS + PANELS

  • Join us for an exclusive conversation with creatives behind STARZ’s bold and boundary-pushing storytelling. Content and special guests to be announced—stay tuned for an unforgettable session!

  • What makes a general meeting memorable? An iconic director and top film/TV execs break down how to present your authentic voice while aligning with what execs are actually looking for. Includes two live mock generals—with real-time feedback—and tangible takeaways to elevate your next meeting.

    Want a chance to participate live? Submit your reel + resume for consideration!

  • Presented with our partners at SCRIPTATION.

    Watch a director prep a short script with key department heads—DP, 1st AD, Production Designer, Costume Designer, and Producer—in real time. This dynamic session breaks down how to lead a creative, efficient prep meeting and foster team alignment before you hit set.

  • Framing is more than composition, it’s emotional storytelling. Learn how lens choices, shot size, and movement communicate your vision and character perspective.

  • From securing the right agent to navigating contract negotiations, a director’s team plays a pivotal role in shaping their career. This panel brings together leading managers, agents, and entertainment attorneys to break down what each role actually does, how to build and maintain strong relationships, and how to know when it’s time to expand—or change—your team. Walk away with practical insights on getting repped, staying repped, and advocating for yourself at every stage.

  • Presented in partnership with The Black List

    Two selected directors receive live blocking guidance from an acclaimed TV and feature director, working through scenes with actors on stage. See how to break down space, shape movement, and design coverage that supports story.

    Want a chance to block a scene from your feature or pilot script? Submit here! Winners also receive a free month of hosting and free coverage from our parters at The Black List.

  • An experienced editor and director break down how to prep for post before you shoot. Learn how to deliver clean coverage, build a strong relationship with your editor, and embrace the edit as a powerful storytelling tool.

  • Join a selection of AWD’s celebrated ICON Directors—trailblazing filmmakers who have shaped the industry through decades of groundbreaking work—for a dynamic conversation about craft, career longevity, and the evolving landscape for women and gender-expansive directors. Panelists will share insights from their journeys across film and television, offering invaluable perspective and inspiration to directors at every stage of their careers.

  • In this Masterclass, a director takes us behind the scenes, sharing their process for working with actors, from casting through final take. Learn how to shape layered performances while balancing tone, pacing, and emotional arcs.

*Programming and guests subject to change based on availability.

PASSES + SUBMISSIONS

  • Directing Workshop Tickets

    $245

    One Day Pass for Friday, 9/26

    AWD MEMBER RATE: $183.75

  • Directing Masterclass

    $399

    Two Day Pass for Friday, 9/26 and Saturday, 9/27

    AWD MEMBER RATE: $299.25

  • Directing Intensive

    $245

    One Day Pass for Saturday, 9/27

    AWD MEMBER RATE: $183.75

  • pitching workshop

    $15

    Submit your Reel + Resume to take a LIVE general on stage at the workshop with real-world executives and get real-time feedback from a pro!

    terms + conditions apply

  • filmmaking workshop

    $25

    Feeling ambitious? Submit to both the pitching and blocking workshops, double your chances of selection, and save a few dollars!

    terms + conditions apply

  • blocking workshop

    $15

    Submit your Script for a chance to block a scene LIVE on stage with a pro! Winners receive free hosting + coverage from The Black List.

    terms + conditions apply

JOIN Us

September 26-27, 2025

SOUTH PARK CENTER THEATER - 1139 S Hill St.Los Angeles, CA 90015

PARKING: The parking garage is located at 1133 S Olive Street Los Angeles, CA 90015. BTS attendees special rate: $15/day.

 

Interested in becoming a Community Partner? Please email us at bts@allianceofwomendirectors.org for more information!

ABOUT AWD

ALLIANCE OF WOMEN DIRECTORS (AWD) is a nonprofit dedicated to the advancement of women and gender-expansive directors in the entertainment industry. Find out about membership, sponsorship, and year round programming on our website.

The word 'AWD' in bold letters filled with an image of smiling women at a women’s event, with the word 'WOMEN' in red below.