The Underground

Through our one-of-a-kind cinematic arts programs, students ages 9-19 have access to state-of-the-art equipment, committed mentors, and a dynamic space to showcase their talents to their friends, family, peers, and a wider audience. Our cinematic arts program include: Cinematic Arts School - We offer 12+ semester courses for teens 14-19 in Film Production, Film Studies, and Broadcast Journalism. Each course fullfills Ohio art requirements through flexible credit. Summer Film Program - We offer week-long summer film camps for students in grades 6-12, enabling teens to pursue their passion in a fun environment. In June of 2019, we offered six film camps. Four film camps were held at Sinclair College in Mason and were open to students throughout the region. In addition, two film camps were offered at The School for Creative and Performing Arts and open to SCPA and CPS students. After School Enrichment Program (ASEP) - ASEP's are designed to deepen students' knowledge and understanding of the cinematic arts. Each ASEP is 1.5 hours a week for 4 weeks and serves up to 25 students. ASEP's are offered for students in grades 3-12 and are held on participating schools' campuses. Director Series - The monthly Director Series provides a social and educational experience, enabling teens to learn about a film director, screen a film over dinner, and engage in group discussions with peers/mentors. Each session accommodates up to 50 teens. The series is offered at the School for Creative and Performing Arts as well as Sinclair College in Mason. Teen Film Challenge - The 72 Hour Teen Film competition enables teens to showcase their creativity, production, and post-production skills, empowering them to collaborate in small groups to create a short, marrative film in a three-day period. In 2019, 100+ teens participated and 400+ people attended the film premiere. Golden Lion Awards High School Film Festival - This Midwest Festival is the only nonprofit, youth focused, regional event of its kind in the US. It provides opportunities for student filmmakers to improve skills and receive recognition for their films. 1200+ teens participated in 2019.