Film and Video Programs
Pitch-Nic
Ages 15-19
October 2007-September 2008
Mondays & Wednesdays 4pm-6pm
Tuition*: $165/month
Pitch-Nic was conceived in 2002 as an exciting, hands-on way to unite talented, passionate young filmmakers with supporters of youth filmmaking. This intense year-long workshop allows experienced student filmmakers to create a professional-caliber documentary or narrative film. With the guidance of professional mentors—and with access to professional production values—these filmmakers truly experience every aspect of the production process. Pitch-Nic participants should have a strong drive, good work ethic, open mind, and deep commitment to filmmaking.
Film and Video Apprenticeship
Ages 15-19
Fall Apprenticeship: July 2007-December 2007
Spring Apprenticeship: January 2008-June 2008
Tuesdays & Thursdays 4pm-6pm
Apply Now »
General Information Form »
The Film and Video Production Apprenticeship Program offers a thorough insight into the production process from script to screen. Focusing on visual language, narrative structure, and performance, the apprentices create numerous film and video projects in various genres, including documentary, fiction, television commercials, industrial videos, and public service announcements. Emphasizing experience, personal vision, motivation, and technical ability, apprentices learn many aspects of the industry as they produce projects and collaborate with others. The program provides hands-on education and real-world career experiences. For almost six months, youth apprentices work with professional industry mentors and instructors to design, develop, and implement affordable media works for local non-profit organizations. Young people of high school age are given the unique opportunity to:
- Receive valuable creative, technical, and vocational skills in media and technology.
- Develop critical learning, media literacy, and leadership skills.
- Earn a modest weekly stipend (an important source of income for our participants).
Youth Documentary Arts Program (YDAP)
YDAP introduces students to the art and craft of documentary filmmaking. Spy Hop’s documentary program empowers youth to find their voice, realize their stories, and become critical producers by providing them mentorship, instruction, equipment, and an outlet to share their voices.
Spy Hop’s documentary programs provide a safe space for students to explore their creativity while initiating community dialogue about a variety of intriguing topics. Introduced to the storytelling process as well as digital cameras, recording equipment and editing systems, you are able to explore issues close to their life with trained documentarians.
DOCUMENTING COMMUNITIES
Ages 14-19
At Spy Hop Oct 30-Dec 14; Tues 4pm-6pm
At University of Utah Jan 8 -May 1; Tues & Thurs 4:10pm-5:40pm
Free
This collaboration with the College of Humanities at the University of Utah involves high school and college-age youth in the production of video documentary works that 
explore local “communities.” The program provides an invaluable experience for students to examine their own beliefs, senses of identity, and communities, as well as those of others. Through screenings and round table discussions the Documenting Communities serve as stepping off points for dialogue about such topics as stereotypes, diversity, tolerance, racism, cultural knowledge, tradition, and community itself.
REEL STORIES: Sundance Institute’s Youth Documentary Workshop at Spy Hop Productions.
Ages 16-19
March 2008-August 2008
Free
Sundance Institute and Spy Hop Productions are excited to offer Reel Stories, an intensive workshop that gives Utah high school students the opportunity to work with the country’s best documentary filmmakers. Reel Stories provides a safe space for students to explore their creativity and take artistic risks, while learning the art and craft of documentary filmmaking. During this unique hands-on experience, participants work with experienced filmmakers to produce short documentaries. The first part of the program focuses on story development, the creative process, nonfiction filmmaking styles, camera operation, and production. The second part is dedicated to learning Final Cut Pro editing software and transforming raw footage into a completed documentary. Reel Stories culminates with an evening presentation of the completed shorts before an audience of peers, family, and friends. Students learn how to formulate a solid pitch and a well-thought-out story, as well as how to be resourceful filmmakers. In addition, guest Sundance Film Festival filmmakers host mini-workshops, screen their films, and offer creative feedback to the youth.
Seasonal Programs
Ages 14-19
Offered in Fall, Spring, & Summer
(See Upcoming Class Schedule for Dates)
Tuition*: Part I Classes $195, Part II Classes $265
Filmmaking I & Filmmaking II
These four- to six-week programs are offered several times a year, in the fall, spring, and summer. Whether you are a beginning filmmaker, want to improve upon what you know, or want to gain experience for other Spy Hop programs, these classes are a good place to start.
*Tuition assistance available for all tuition-based programs. Call (801) 532-7500 for more information.
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