Virtual Pitch Nights featuring Inspired Screenwriting
AWD Directing Members are invited to a special two-part virtual pitching series presented in partnership with Inspired Screenwriting, featuring the 2025 competition finalists.
Across two sessions (May 4 and May 11) a total of 13 standout writers will pitch their original projects live to an audience of AWD directors, allies, and guests from Women of Cinematic Arts (WSC). Each writer will have approximately five minutes to present, followed by a brief Q&A.
These sessions are a great opportunity to hear fresh ideas, connect with emerging and established screenwriters, and discover potential collaborators.
Register for one or both sessions on the events’ calendar pages (May 4 HERE; May 11 HERE). Each offers a new slate of projects and voices. We can’t wait to see you there!
Location Spotlight – Chicago, Illinois Film Offices
AWD Directing and Ally Members are invited to an upcoming Location Spotlight Series conversation featuring Natasha Olguin, Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Film Office, and Louis Ferrara from the Illinois Film Office.
This session will offer a practical, insider look at the benefits of filming in Chicago and across Illinois, including local incentives, location diversity, and production resources available to directors. Whether you’re developing your next project or actively planning production, this is a chance to better understand how to leverage what the region has to offer.
The presentations will be followed by a 15-minute Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask specific questions and engage directly with both offices. REGISTER HERE.
AWD x AWFC Speed Networking Mixer
Ready to meet your next creative collaborator? AWD Directing Members and Alliance for Women Film Composers are hosting a fast-paced, high-energy evening designed to spark new partnerships between directors and composers.
We’re bringing together 20 directors and 20 composers for a series of fun and inspired one-on-one conversations. Whether you’re looking for your next scoring partner or a director who shares your creative vision, this is your chance to connect, collaborate, and build lasting relationships within our community.
Spots are limited and will be filled via lottery.
*RSVP HERE by EOD May 3rd to be entered.
Mental Health Awareness Month – Wellness Day
AWD Directing and Ally Members are invited to a restorative Day of Wellness in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. Together we will create a space to reconnect, recharge, and support one another in community.
The day will feature a guided Sound Bath, an immersive meditative experience where soothing vibrations from instruments like crystal bowls and chimes help calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. We’ll also offer a Breathwork Session designed to gently guide participants through intentional breathing techniques that enhance clarity, emotional balance, and overall well-being.
Together, these practices create an opportunity to slow down, tune inward, and cultivate resilience in a supportive, creative community. Light, healthy snacks will be provided to nourish both body and mind. Come as you are, and leave feeling refreshed and connected.
Spots are limited and will be filled via lottery.
*RSVP HERE by EOD May 3rd to be entered.
BDAI Presents: Directing in the Vertical Space
The Black Directors Advancement Initiative invites its members to a virtual panel and learning workshop designed to introduce and demystify the rapidly growing vertical content space.
As platforms continue to prioritize mobile-first storytelling, vertical content has evolved from social media experimentation into a legitimate, high-demand production format across entertainment, branded content, and digital series. This session will provide directors with a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes understanding of what it takes to successfully direct in this space.
Reach out to the BDAI Committee to register!
AWD + Odyssey Theatre Community Partner Night
AWD is thrilled to be a Community Partner of the Odyssey Theatre! Come see us in the lobby before the May 15th performance of “Hymn.”
GET YOUR TICKETS HERE using code AWD20.
ABOUT THE SHOW:
Two strangers from very different neighborhoods meet at a funeral.
Gil knew the deceased. Benny did not.
Benny is a loner anchored by his wife and children. Gil longs to fulfill his potential. They form a deep bond but as cracks appear in their fragile lives, they start to realize that true courage comes in different forms.
R&B rhythms and gospel, boxing and rounds of scotch, uncover shared histories and hidden wounds in Hymn, directed by L.A. award-winner Gregg T. Daniel, in a much-anticipated co-production with the Odyssey Theatre and the Lower Depth Theatre. This soulful play takes a look at love, faith and friendship and asks “what does it take to be a good father, brother or son.” Written by celebrated playwright Lolita Chakrabarti, best know for her stage adaptation of the novel Life of Pi and Hamnet.
Virtual Social Sunday
Social Sundays are a great place for AWD Directing and Ally Members to relax at the end of the weekend, prepare for the coming week, and find community!
This month will be hosted by AWD Board Members and Member Relations Committee Chairs Amanda Donenfeld and Jan Johnson Goldberger.
The topic will be “Welcome to the Matriarchy”! How do we tell stories and run productions from the lens of the matriarchy? We will explore what it really means to embody the matriarchy and how that can show up in how we re-imagine what storytelling and production looks like. REGISTER HERE.
AWD Mixer + Demo at Picture Shop
AWD Directing Members are invited to a behind-the-scenes tour and demo at Picture Shop’s post-production facility. This is an opportunity to get an up-close look at the finishing process.
Picture Shop’s team will walk us through their Seward facility, offering insight into the tools, workflows, and creative collaboration that bring projects across the finish line. Whether you’re deep in post or preparing for it, this session is designed to demystify the process and give you a clearer path forward.
Following the tour, stay for a mixer with light refreshments. Connect with fellow directors and the Picture Shop team, share experiences, and continue the conversation in a relaxed setting.
Spots are limited and will be filled via lottery.
*RSVP HERE by EOD May 13th to be entered.