BACK TO SET | JUNE 12 + 13 2026 | LOS ANGELES
BACK TO SET IS A 2 DAY DIRECTING MASTERCLASS OPEN TO ALL
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2 day in person directing workshop in LA
Our 2026 Directing Intensive takes place at Woodbury University in Burbank, CA. Join us for two days in person, learning alongside fellow directors.
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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.
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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!
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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.
2026 BACK TO SET SPEAKERS
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JOSIE ANDREWS
DIRECTOR
Microdramas -
ELIZABETH DELL
MICRO DRAMAS EXECUTIVE
HOORAE -
RACHEL GOLDBERG
FILM & TV DIRECTOR
(GenV, Agatha All Along, The Burbs) -
Emmeline Yang Hankins
PRODUCER & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT
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YAXING LIN
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
DramaBox -
RACHEL RAIMIST
FILM & TV DIRECTOR
(Elsbeth, Bel-Air, Wu-Tang: An American Saga) -
Odetta Watkins
HEAD OF DRAMA SERIES
Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios -
ERIS ZHAO
CO-FOUNDER
Bad Larry Productions -
BTS TICKETS
$350
STandard pass includes:
• Full access to all BACK TO SET panels and programming
• Networking opportunities with fellow directors and industry professionals
• Lunch and refreshments both days
GENERAL ADMISSION
$500
DIRECTOR’s CIRCLE pass includes:
• Full BACK TO SET admission
• Director’s Circle Reception the evening before the symposium
• Professional Director Portrait Session during event
• Complimentary submission access to hands-on workshop opportunities
• Recognition as a Director’s Circle supporter in the event program
DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE
$100 off!
AWD Members receive $100 off any pass level. To redeem, visit the Member Center for your discount code.
AWD MEMBER DISCOUNT
BACK TO SET 2026 | WORKSHOPS + PANELS
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Dive into the fast-growing world of vertical storytelling. Learn how framing, pacing, and performance shift when creating for mobile-first platforms. Taught by USC Adjunct professor and verticals director Josie Andrews.
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Step inside the casting process with a live audition, offering directors a firsthand look at how choices are made in real time. Learn how to communicate with actors and casting directors to find the right performance. Session led by Meg Mormon, CSA. Submission info coming soon!
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Explore how directors bring a scene to life through blocking, camera placement, and performance. This hands-on session breaks down the collaboration between director, actors, and camera team. Taught by AWD Icon Director Rachel Goldberg. Submission information coming soon!
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Follow a working director’s process as they break down a script for television. Gain practical tools for prep, from identifying key beats to planning your shooting approach. Taught by AWD Icon Director Rachel Raimist. Submission info coming soon!
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A grounded look at what it takes to get an independent feature made. From development to distribution, this session covers the creative and logistical realities of indie filmmaking. Panelists include Olivia Newman (Remarkably Bright Creatures) and Tiny Mabry (Mississippi Damned).
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Understand how to translate story into visuals through lens choices, composition, and movement. Learn how to collaborate with your DP to build a cohesive visual language.
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Refine your ability to clearly and confidently pitch your project. This session focuses on crafting a compelling, concise pitch that connects in any room. Taught by Producer Emmeline Yang Hankins. Pitch to Odetta Watkins (Amazon/MGM) + more! Submission information coming soon!
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Join executives and creatives from STARZ for a conversation on the current television landscape, including what they’re looking for in directors. The panel will also feature the introduction of the six selected candidates for the STARZ x AWD Creative Leadership Lab.
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Explore emerging technologies reshaping how stories are made. This session looks at practical applications of AI and virtual production, and what directors need to know to stay ahead.
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Panelists include Elizabeth Dell (Hoorae), Yaxing Lin (DramaBox) and Bofan Zhao (Bad Larry Productions).
Please note that programming is subject to change based on speaker availability.
DON'T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT!
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HEAR FROM BTS 2025 ATTENDEES
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DON'T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT! ✳︎ HEAR FROM BTS 2025 ATTENDEES ✳︎
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Joining us from out of town? Woodbury University is conveniently located just minutes from the Hollywood Burbank Airport.
Looking for accommodation? Hampton Inn and Suites Los Angeles Burbank Airport is just across the street and is offering BTS Attendees a special discounted rate of $199.00 + tax per night. Please book at the link here by May 12th for special pricing! Hampton Inn offers waived parking fees, complimentary breakfast, and free shuttles to and from the Burbank airport with this deal.
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.
