All classes take place at the
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, Room 213
357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster On.
On Wednesday's in the summer, the parking lot entrance on Wilson will be blocked off for the Farmer's Market. Please use the Queen St entrance.
IN THE NEWS
Hamilton Spectator - Hamilton gets its own film school, aligned with festival.
Beyond James - And, Action! Local Film School Debuts This Fall
Bay Observer - A Hamilton Film School Opens in the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Ancaster News - Curtain rises for the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Beyond James - I Took An Acting Class and Ended Up in The Hamilton Film Festival
CBC Hamilton - Hamilton puppeteer teaches kids the power of imagination
Beyond James - And, Action! Local Film School Debuts This Fall
Bay Observer - A Hamilton Film School Opens in the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Ancaster News - Curtain rises for the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Beyond James - I Took An Acting Class and Ended Up in The Hamilton Film Festival
CBC Hamilton - Hamilton puppeteer teaches kids the power of imagination
SPRING 2024
Summer Filmmaking Camps!
Get ready for a new summer of filmmaking! Some weeks are already sold out!
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
The kids will produce a short film during the camps and we will premiere them at the Hamilton Film Festival in October! A "reel" script-to screen experience!
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
The kids will produce a short film during the camps and we will premiere them at the Hamilton Film Festival in October! A "reel" script-to screen experience!
Setiquette
Sunday March 24th
1pm - 4pm
$60 + hst
357 Wilson St E, Ancaster, Room 213 - Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
1pm - 4pm
$60 + hst
357 Wilson St E, Ancaster, Room 213 - Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
It’s the best couple name for Set Etiquette! For anyone who is hoping to be on a set soon and would like to feel prepared for what it will look like! We will go over terms you’ll hear on set and what they mean. We will go over who to talk to about what, and who not to! We will practice hitting our marks, finding our light, using props correctly for sound, continuity and so much more! This is the course we hope actors will take prior to a demo reel short film! :)
HamOnt Acting Studio owner Jessica Clement has been working professionally as an actor for TV and Film for 15 years.
Her work has received many shining reviews and awards, specifically for her performance leading the feature film “Night Blooms”, and as a series regular in the CBC/WGNA series “Pure”. She has acted alongside wonderful talents such as: Nicolas Cage, Richard Gere, Peter Outerbridge, Sarah Levy, Jason Priestley, Jason Isaacs, and Robert Pattinson. Jessica has a burning passion for her craft and works on it constantly both on and off set. Jessica is currently filming a spin off series of Amazon Prime’s “The Boys” as well as two feature films and dedicates all of her time off set to her acting students.
Writing Room
Monday Evenings on April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13
6pm - 8:30pm
$240 + hst (for all 6 classes)
357 Wilson St E, Ancaster, Room 213 - Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
6pm - 8:30pm
$240 + hst (for all 6 classes)
357 Wilson St E, Ancaster, Room 213 - Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Once a week for 6 weeks, with the option for additional sessions.
Anyone who knows me knows that I will tell you quite frankly that you cannot call yourself a screenwriter unless you actually finish a screenplay. To be fair to all the screenwriters out there, like myself, who struggle in this extremely competitive craft, would you call someone a tradesperson who has not completed the required apprenticeship in their chosen trade?
Writing Room welcomes all serious screenwriters at any level of experience to join me each week for 2-3 hours to get it done. I’ll facilitate discussion on craft screenwriting, bring in guest screenwriters, and share information about screenwriting podcasts and books. Most importantly, allow time for each screenwriter to share a work in progress and allow feedback
3 Requirements:
1) A working story idea, at any stage: synopsis or treatment, partial or complete draft of a screenplay.
2) Be open to sharing and listening to well-meaning and honest criticism.
3) Most important is the willingness to try and see it through to the end.
Anyone who knows me knows that I will tell you quite frankly that you cannot call yourself a screenwriter unless you actually finish a screenplay. To be fair to all the screenwriters out there, like myself, who struggle in this extremely competitive craft, would you call someone a tradesperson who has not completed the required apprenticeship in their chosen trade?
Writing Room welcomes all serious screenwriters at any level of experience to join me each week for 2-3 hours to get it done. I’ll facilitate discussion on craft screenwriting, bring in guest screenwriters, and share information about screenwriting podcasts and books. Most importantly, allow time for each screenwriter to share a work in progress and allow feedback
3 Requirements:
1) A working story idea, at any stage: synopsis or treatment, partial or complete draft of a screenplay.
2) Be open to sharing and listening to well-meaning and honest criticism.
3) Most important is the willingness to try and see it through to the end.
Facilitator: Terrance Odette
Award winning Writer/Director Terrance Odette began his career creating, producing and directing music TV series & specials, including over 150 music videos before writing and directing HEATER (1999) to great critical acclaim (Variety, Village Voice, MacLean’s, Globe & Mail, voted Top-Ten All-Time Canadian Films Vancouver Sun). Odette’s work has garnered numerous awards for both writing and directing. And have screened at Sundance, Berlinale, TIFF, VIFF, LIFF UK, Mumbai. FALL (2014) with Michael Murphy (Manhattan) and Cannes prize-winner Best Actress Suzanne Clement (Mommy) received 5 CANADIAN SCREEN AWARD Nominations including Best Picture Odette’s Latest efforts include documentary feature UNIMAGINABLE (2023), narrative film/TV BIKE (TV/Streaming). Feature scripts optioned include, BRETHREN, SKIN THE GHOST and LIGHT Of THE VOID.
Award winning Writer/Director Terrance Odette began his career creating, producing and directing music TV series & specials, including over 150 music videos before writing and directing HEATER (1999) to great critical acclaim (Variety, Village Voice, MacLean’s, Globe & Mail, voted Top-Ten All-Time Canadian Films Vancouver Sun). Odette’s work has garnered numerous awards for both writing and directing. And have screened at Sundance, Berlinale, TIFF, VIFF, LIFF UK, Mumbai. FALL (2014) with Michael Murphy (Manhattan) and Cannes prize-winner Best Actress Suzanne Clement (Mommy) received 5 CANADIAN SCREEN AWARD Nominations including Best Picture Odette’s Latest efforts include documentary feature UNIMAGINABLE (2023), narrative film/TV BIKE (TV/Streaming). Feature scripts optioned include, BRETHREN, SKIN THE GHOST and LIGHT Of THE VOID.
ART DIRECTION
Saturday and Sunday April 20 & 21 (2-Day Workshop)
9am - 5pm
$325
357 Wilson St E, Ancaster, Room 213 - Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
9am - 5pm
$325
357 Wilson St E, Ancaster, Room 213 - Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
ART DIRECTION
Limited to Twelve participants, this weekend workshop features live instruction, with collaborative group assignments and presentations, mentoring and special guest designers from film and theatre.
Students should have access to a laptop or tablet for visual research purposes.Successful completion of this course will enable the student to:
The workshop fee includes a sketchbook, watercolour paint and watercolour paper. Prior to the workshop, students will be emailed two script options and will be asked to read their script of choice.
Limited to Twelve participants, this weekend workshop features live instruction, with collaborative group assignments and presentations, mentoring and special guest designers from film and theatre.
Students should have access to a laptop or tablet for visual research purposes.Successful completion of this course will enable the student to:
- Analyze script content and break down a script for a shooting schedule
- Understand the roles of the Art Department and the key collaborative structures
- Explore concept design and create mood boards
- Learn research and presentation skills
- Practice time management, budgeting and planning skills
The workshop fee includes a sketchbook, watercolour paint and watercolour paper. Prior to the workshop, students will be emailed two script options and will be asked to read their script of choice.
Laura Keightley
Interior Designer Laura Keightley works as a Production Designer and Set Decorator in the art departments of Television and Film. Her knowledge of studio construction builds combined with her experience in delivering state of the art, trend setting, character driven movie sets has shaped Laura’s skills in creating unique and distinctive treatments for each project and client.
You’ll find Laura’s credits as a Production Designer on TV shows and films for Reel One Entertainment, Champlain Media, Neshama Entertainment and as an Art Director, Set Decorator and Decoration Buyer – for Networks ranging from Amazon Prime, Apple and CBS, to Lion’s Gate, Netflix and Sony Pictures.
Docs Done Write
Coming this spring.
Monday Morning Homeschool Filmmaking Class for Kids!
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
$135 All 10 Classes (save $15)
$15 Per Class
Monday mornings from 10am - 11:30am we'll take the classes through different techniques of filmmaking. Some classes will be one-offs, and others we will focus on a larger project. This hands-on class will give the student an opportunity to use filmmaking equipment, and discover filmmaking techniques. This can also include scene study (watching a scene and analyzing it). Ideal for kids 8-12. You can always sign up at any point and contribute. You don't have to do the entire 12 classes to participate
April
8, 15, 22, 29 (no class on Easter Monday)
May
6, 13, 27 (no class on Victoria Day)
June
4, 11, 18
$135 All 10 Classes (save $15)
$15 Per Class
Monday mornings from 10am - 11:30am we'll take the classes through different techniques of filmmaking. Some classes will be one-offs, and others we will focus on a larger project. This hands-on class will give the student an opportunity to use filmmaking equipment, and discover filmmaking techniques. This can also include scene study (watching a scene and analyzing it). Ideal for kids 8-12. You can always sign up at any point and contribute. You don't have to do the entire 12 classes to participate
April
8, 15, 22, 29 (no class on Easter Monday)
May
6, 13, 27 (no class on Victoria Day)
June
4, 11, 18
Tuesday Evening Filmmaking Classes - All Ages
$24 + HST per lesson
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
Like music lessons, for movie making!
Weekly, one-on-one, 30 minute, filmmaking lessons for all ages! We will work with the student to focus on their interest in filmmaking. It could be directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, sound, stop motion, or filmmaking in general. You must book a month at a time. You always get first choice to maintain your monthly timeslot. Please contact us here to request a spot between 3:30 and the last lesson starts at 8:30pm but earlier or later lessons can be arrange. There are two rooms running this session offering more times for students. The instructors will be Nathan Fleet, and Michael Penney. If you sign up in the middle of the month, select "individual class" from the payment menu.
April $120 + hst
2,9,16,23,30
May $96 + hst
7,14,21,28
June $72 + hst
4,11,18
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
Like music lessons, for movie making!
Weekly, one-on-one, 30 minute, filmmaking lessons for all ages! We will work with the student to focus on their interest in filmmaking. It could be directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, sound, stop motion, or filmmaking in general. You must book a month at a time. You always get first choice to maintain your monthly timeslot. Please contact us here to request a spot between 3:30 and the last lesson starts at 8:30pm but earlier or later lessons can be arrange. There are two rooms running this session offering more times for students. The instructors will be Nathan Fleet, and Michael Penney. If you sign up in the middle of the month, select "individual class" from the payment menu.
April $120 + hst
2,9,16,23,30
May $96 + hst
7,14,21,28
June $72 + hst
4,11,18
WEDNESDAY EVENING ACTING CLASSES - 10 PART
SPRING SESSION
10 Classes
Spring Session
$149 + hst
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
6pm - 7pm, Kids ages 8-12
7:30 - 8:30pm, Teens and adults
April 3,10,17,24
May 1,8,15,22,29
June 5
Spring Session
$149 + hst
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
6pm - 7pm, Kids ages 8-12
7:30 - 8:30pm, Teens and adults
April 3,10,17,24
May 1,8,15,22,29
June 5
A fun way to learn some acting skills specifically for the screen, taught by working actors!
You will learn many of the techniques and skills required for on-screen acting including on camera techniques, reading and memorizing scripts, working with other actors in a scene, various styles and genres, exercises, and information you will need if you would like to pursue acting as either a hobby, a skill, or a profession!
You will learn many of the techniques and skills required for on-screen acting including on camera techniques, reading and memorizing scripts, working with other actors in a scene, various styles and genres, exercises, and information you will need if you would like to pursue acting as either a hobby, a skill, or a profession!
HamOnt Acting Studio owner Jessica Clement has been working professionally as an actor for TV and Film for 15 years.
Her work has received many shining reviews and awards, specifically for her performance leading the feature film “Night Blooms”, and as a series regular in the CBC/WGNA series “Pure”. She has acted alongside wonderful talents such as: Nicolas Cage, Richard Gere, Peter Outerbridge, Sarah Levy, Jason Priestley, Jason Isaacs, and Robert Pattinson. Jessica has a burning passion for her craft and works on it constantly both on and off set. Jessica is currently filming a spin off series of Amazon Prime’s “The Boys” as well as two feature films and dedicates all of her time off set to her acting students.
ORPHANED ACTOR'S CLUB - Weekly
$20
6pm - 7pm
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
(Starts Thursday January 11th)
6pm - 7pm
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
(Starts Thursday January 11th)
Orphaned Actors Club is for any actor who is unrepresented and looking for an agent to take them under their wing. The strike is over! It’s time to dive in and find that agent! But it can be a scary step. Many actors feel alone and overwhelmed in the process of submitting to agencies. This can cause them to push it off or second guess their actions. This program exists as support for all of those actors until they land that agent! We will hold each other accountable, offer guidance and advice, and press that “submit” button all together!
THURSDAY EVENING - ACTOR'S GYM - Weekly
Thursday Evening Actor's Gym
(Starts Thursday January 11th)
$25
7pm - 8:30pm
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
Come flex your acting muscles with one of our working actors! This is an ongoing drop-in class every Thursday except during winter break, and march break. Whether you are looking to keep your skills sharp, or need some specific guidance on an upcoming role or audition, this is the class for you! It is a drop-in but please register online so we know that you are coming.
(Starts Thursday January 11th)
$25
7pm - 8:30pm
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
Come flex your acting muscles with one of our working actors! This is an ongoing drop-in class every Thursday except during winter break, and march break. Whether you are looking to keep your skills sharp, or need some specific guidance on an upcoming role or audition, this is the class for you! It is a drop-in but please register online so we know that you are coming.
1 on 1 - DAYTIME
$48 per hour session
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Room 213
If something we offer doesn't fit into your schedule, we offer daytime 1-on-1 sessions in person, and online.
These are available in one-hour classes and you can focus on your area of study. Please reach out in advance to inquire about a date / time, and your area of interest. Email
These are available in one-hour classes and you can focus on your area of study. Please reach out in advance to inquire about a date / time, and your area of interest. Email
EXPERIENCE A MOVIE BEING MADE FROM SCRIPT TO SCREEN
Fly On The Wall: The Making of an Indie Feature
$99 + hst
Ongoing | Enter anytime
Sign up anytime and get access to all previous materials.
Once registered, you will receive your private access. Any in-person experiences will be recorded and posted online so no matter where you live, you can experience everything.
Feb 2024 STATUS: Post Production
Experience the entire process of a movie being made, from development to the screen. EAST END, will be a dramatic feature film, (hopefully) made in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It is in the very early stages of development and we want you to be able to experience the process via documents, images, videos, live video feeds, and in-person experiences. How long this will take is unknown, but it will be a real-world experience of an independent Canadian feature-film attempting to get financed, produced and released. Successes or failures, you will experience the whole process as a fly on the wall.
The 5 stages you will access and experience are:
Every movie has a different plan or strategy and each creative project is like starting from scratch. We don't always have all the answers but we look for solutions and possibilities in order to complete the work. The hope is that this Fly On The Wall project helps other filmmakers on their journey through this insight, strategy, and inspiration.
The 5 stages you will access and experience are:
- Development: Budgeting, script writing, funding and applications, team building, casting, email correspondence, successful or rejected funding, film festival and release strategies.
- Pre-Production: Locations, casting, rehearsals, script breakdowns, permit applications, insurance, legal
- Production: On-set experiences, access to dailies, access to call sheets and correspondence, behind the scenes video and audio
- Post Production: Editing room experiences, seeing the score come to life, sound editing and mixing experiences, marketing and promotional materials.
- Exhibition / Distribution: Release strategies implemented, tickets to festival screenings (hopefully), sales (hopefully)
Every movie has a different plan or strategy and each creative project is like starting from scratch. We don't always have all the answers but we look for solutions and possibilities in order to complete the work. The hope is that this Fly On The Wall project helps other filmmakers on their journey through this insight, strategy, and inspiration.
Give the gift of filmmaking!
We have so many classes and camps, for all ages, that run year-round, and now you can gift these to that budding star, the emerging filmmaker, or to someone who wants to try something new!
Click BUY NOW and enter the amount you wish to gift. We will mail out a gift card to you so if you are doing this for Christmas, make sure you order between Dec 14 - 19. We can also send a virtual gift card if requested.
SAFETY & REFUNDS
All our camps and classes will follow the current guidelines as set out by the province of Ontario. You can read the guidelines https://covid-19.ontario.ca/public-health-measures
Full refunds will be issued if the camps have to close, or reduce capacity, as a result of public health measures.
For non-public health related cancellations, you will be refunded less a processing fee.
CONTACT
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, On, L9G 2C1
Room #213
Questions or Contact: info@hamiltonfilmfestival.com
About the owner.
Nathan Fleet has been working in the field of entertainment for over 25 years. A natural educator, a musician by trade, and a filmmaker by default, Nathan has written, produced, directed, edited, composed and acted for several film, television, music video, and corporate productions. He is currently working on the 17th Annual Hamilton Film Festival, a TV series called WILD CHILD, as well as producing many other projects. Nathan teaches music and filmmaking, runs the Hamilton Film Festival, founded (and is the chair of) Lights Camera Hamilton, and he runs the music and film company Blue Pick Media. |
© 2023 Hamilton Film Festival Ltd.