SUMMER intensive 2026 - Enrolling now
Your teen's first feature film.
The ultimate filmmaking experience: shadow industry professionals for 7 weeks, make a proof of concept, and earn an IMDb credit.
2026 Summer program
July 6 - August 20
MON - THU
10 AM - 3 PM
GRADES 9 - 12
All experience levels welcome!
7 weeks
140+ hours
our 2026 film project
Babe. the kids are posers !
From Script to Screen: Capture the story from every angle. Pittsburgh students (Grades 9-12) will spend the summer working under industry mentorship to produce a narrative film "Babe, The Kids are Posers" and an accompanying documentary "The Story of Magic Hour", mastering both scripted and non-fiction filmmaking.
the experience
From students to a working film crew.
Join us for an immersive, 7-week summer intensive where students (Grades 9–12) transition from students to a working film crew. Our cohort will collaborate to produce a documentary and narrative films, gaining hands-on experience in every department—from cinematography and sound to production management and editing. This is Magic Hour Academy's most intensive and transformative program.
ON THE SET
140+ Hours of Instruction
Direct mentorship from professional filmmakers and teaching artists.
Professional Gear
Hands-on time with industry-standard equipment and professional editing suites.
Daily Fuel
We keep the crew fueled with healthy snacks and drinks provided every day.
A Media Lab Environment
A creative, low-stress clubhouse space where students can explore their voices as artists.
Skills for life
Effective Communication
Learning how to speak up, share ideas, and give and receive constructive feedback.
Professional Accountability
Managing deadlines, mastering time management, and understanding the "on-set" work ethic.
Collaborative Leadership
Solving high-pressure problems as a team and supporting one another's creative vision.
Creative Problem-Solving
Developing the ability to think critically under constraints, adapt to unexpected challenges, and find innovative solutions—both technical and narrative.
what's included
what to expect.
Real gear, real mentorship, real food — plus the durable skills a working set teaches that no classroom can.
We want all students to be able to join us!
Pay what you can tuition
Don't let the $2,000 price tag turn you away. We are committed to making this accessible to everyone. Please use the drop-down menu above to select:
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Tuition Assistance Options — sliding scale based on what your family can contribute.
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Deposit-Only Payment — secure your spot today and arrange the rest later
SUMMER SCHEDULE
SEVEN WEEKS ON SET.
Dates
july 6 - August 20, 2026
Days
Monday - Thursday
Standard Hours
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Safe, Inclusive & Creative
You belong on this set.
At the heart of our Media Lab is a commitment to a safe and inclusive environment. This is a space where every student fits in and is encouraged to find—and be—their true selves. Whether you are an introvert behind the camera or a leader on set, you belong here. We celebrate diverse voices and foster a culture of mutual respect and creative freedom.
Good to know
Attendance policy
To maintain the integrity of a film production, full attendance (Monday–Thursday) is strongly preferred. If your student has a known conflict (e.g., a pre-planned vacation or recurring appointment), please list the specific dates in the "Note" section at checkout. This allows our Program Managers to adjust the production schedule and crew assignments in advance.