IFFA WORKSHOPS
Behind the Lens
An Intro to Indigenous Documentary Filmmaking
with Wabanaki Media
Led by renowned filmmakers Nate Gaffney and Desmond Simon from Wabanaki Media, Behind the Lens is a monthly drop-in workshop series designed to introduce Indigenous filmmakers to the early stages of documentary filmmaking. These sessions focus on concept development, pre-production planning, and navigating the documentary landscape with an emphasis on Indigenous storytelling.
Participants will gain valuable insights from guest filmmakers, network with other Indigenous artists, and receive mentorship to help bring their stories to life. Whether you're just starting out or refining your skills, this workshop offers the tools, support, and space to develop your documentary projects in a culturally safe and inspiring environment.
Key Topics:
Concept development and storytelling
Pre-production essentials
Industry insights from experienced Indigenous filmmakers
Join us each month as we create a community of Indigenous storytellers, working together to share powerful and authentic narratives.
How to Register:
To join the Behind the Lens: An Intro to Indigenous Documentary Filmmaking workshop series, please complete the registration form via Google Forms. Once your application is reviewed, selected participants will be contacted via email with further details.
Click here to register https://forms.gle/DTyVFsCifDDG29gx6
For any questions or additional information, feel free to reach out to us at info@Indigenousfuturesfilmacademy.com.
Monthly Acting Training Program
with Cody Kearsley
The Indigenous Futures Film Academy (IFFA) is proud to announce an exclusive monthly online acting training program designed to empower Indigenous actors with the skills and insights necessary to excel in the competitive realm of acting. This unique program, focusing on auditioning techniques and script analysis, will be led by the acclaimed Métis actor Cody Kearsley, renowned for his compelling performances in "RIVERDALE," "SHADOW OF THE ROUGAROU," and “DAYBREAK.”
Program Details:
Duration: This is a monthly program in which participants engage in sessions over 12 months, each designed to build upon the last, ensuring comprehensive skill development and understanding.
Participants: The program is open to 12 Indigenous actors, providing an intimate setting for personalized feedback and interaction. Eligible participants will be selected through an application process assessing their commitment to acting and their potential to benefit from the program.
Curriculum:
Participants will learn the fundamentals of auditioning, including how to make strong choices, present themselves professionally, and understand what casting directors look for.
Building on the basics, this session will delve into advanced audition techniques, on-camera presence, and how to handle cold reads and callbacks.
Actors will learn to break down a script, analyze characters, and uncover the story's deeper meanings to enhance performance.
Teaching actors to apply script analysis skills directly to their audition pieces elevates their performances and interpretation.
Platform: All sessions will be conducted online, allowing actors to join from various locations. Each session will include a mix of instruction, interactive exercises, and Q&A opportunities.
Outcome: By the end of the program, participants will have gained valuable skills in auditioning and script analysis, bolstered by practical experience and industry insights. They will leave the program better equipped to tackle auditions confidently and interpret scripts with depth and nuance.
Dates & Details Coming Soon!
Wiriting for TV with Tai Leclaire
Join us at the Indigenous Futures Film Academy (IFFA) for an exclusive Two-Day Workshop on Writing for Television led by the talented Tai Leclaire. This workshop offers aspiring Indigenous writers a unique opportunity to learn from Tai's extensive experience in the television industry and his creative storytelling techniques.
About Tai Lecla: Tai is a multifaceted creative force in the entertainment industry, known for his work as a Story Editor and actor on the acclaimed NBC comedy series "RUTHERFORD FALLS," created by Mike Schur, Ed Helms, and Sierra Teller-Ornelas. Currently, Tai is developing a new short film with WARNER BROS. STUDIOS, set to stream on MAX in 2024.
A proud member of the 2022 Sundance Native Lab, Tai has earned a spot on The Indigenous List in partnership with The Black List, showcasing his talent and commitment to elevating Indigenous narratives. Additionally, his background as a former house performer at the Upright Citizen’s Brigade Theatre and his performances at various festivals nationwide have honed his skills in both writing and acting.
Workshop Details: In this intensive two-day workshop, Tai will guide participants through the essentials of writing for television, covering topics such as character development, plot structuring, dialogue creation, and the unique aspects of comedic and dramatic storytelling. Participants will gain insights into the industry, learn how to pitch their ideas effectively and receive personalized feedback on their writing.
Whether you're a beginner with a passion for storytelling or an experienced writer looking to refine your skills and understand the television landscape, this workshop is designed to inspire and empower Indigenous voices in the TV writing arena.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's rising stars and take your writing to the next level with IFFA's Writing for TV with Tai Leclaire Two-Day Workshop.
Dates & Details Coming Soon!
Acting 101 with Morgan Holmstrom
Embark on your acting journey with the Indigenous Futures Film Academy (IFFA) by participating in our Acting 101 Two-Day Workshop, instructed by the accomplished actress Morgan Holmstrom. This workshop is specifically designed to provide budding Indigenous actors with foundational acting techniques and industry knowledge, delivered by one of the industry's respected talents.
About Morgan Holmstrom: Morgan Holmstrom has made significant strides in the entertainment industry with notable roles in "SkyMed" (2022), "Outlander" (2022), "Shadow of the Rougarou" (2022), and "Day of the Dead" (2021). Her commendable performances have earned her nominations at prestigious award ceremonies, including the Leo Awards and the UBCP/ACTRA Awards, demonstrating her skill and dedication to her craft.
Workshop Details: Over the course of two days, Morgan will introduce participants to the world of acting, covering essential topics such as character analysis, emotional authenticity, scene study, and audition preparation. The workshop aims to cultivate participants' understanding of acting principles while fostering a supportive environment where they can explore their creativity and expression.
Participants will engage in practical exercises, receive constructive feedback, and gain valuable insights into navigating the acting industry. Whether you aspire to perform on stage or screen, this workshop will equip you with the tools and confidence needed to pursue your passion for acting.
Join us for the Acting 101 Two-Day Workshop with Morgan Holmstrom at IFFA and take the first step toward realizing your potential as an actor. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about Indigenous storytelling and performance.