This year, BACK TO SET features THREE interactive workshops where attendees can step onstage and work directly with high-level directors and executives to sharpen their craft in real time.

(Please note: You must purchase a pass to BACK TO SET to be eligible for consideration. Purchase of any submissions below do not admit entrance to the event. Ticket sales and workshop submissions are non-refundable.)

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

Going Up: The Art of the Elevator Pitch

Refine your ability to pitch your project with clarity, confidence, and impact. Led by producer Emmeline Yang Hankins, this interactive session focuses on crafting a compelling, concise pitch that can connect in any room. Two selected participants will have the opportunity to pitch live to Odetta Watkins (Amazon MGM Studios) and additional industry guests for real-time feedback.

Selected winners also receive a $10,000 Rental Package* from our partners at Keslow Camera!
*Subject to Availability. Terms & Conditions Apply

Submit a link to your AWD Member Profile or IMDb page for consideration. You will be asked to provide the link at checkout.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13

In the Room: A Live Mock Casting

Step inside the casting process with a live mock audition that offers directors a firsthand look at how casting decisions are made in real time. Led by casting director Meg Morman, CSA, this interactive session explores how directors can communicate effectively with actors and casting directors to shape stronger performances and find the right fit for a role.

Two selected participants will have the opportunity to cast roles from their own feature or pilot live during the session and also receive a 1 Free Month of Hosting + 1 Evaluation for their submitted script, courtesy of our partners at The Black List!

Submit a link to the scene from your pilot or feature for consideration. You will be asked to provide the link at checkout.

Episodic Prep: Real Time Script Breakdown

Follow a working director’s process as they break down a television script from prep through production planning. Led by AWD Icon Director Rachel Raimist and featuring Scriptation software, this interactive session offers practical tools for identifying key beats, organizing prep materials, and shaping your shooting approach.

One selected participant will have the opportunity to work directly from a sample script during the live workshop and will receive a free one-year subscription to Scriptation.

Selected participant should be familiar with Scriptation, but not an expert level user. Submit a link to your AWD Member Profile or IMDb page for consideration. You will be asked to provide the link at checkout. Selected participant must be able to bring an iPad to use during the session.