Manhattan Campus • Union Square
City Cinema offers two summer 3-week sessions plus 12-week weekend semester programs throughout the year.
The 12-week schedule gives students time to build skills, collaborate deeply, and complete polished portfolio work.
Dates: Jan 24 — Apr 25, 2026
Meets Saturdays, 11am–6pm
Dates: Jan 25 — Apr 26, 2026
Meets Sundays, 11am–6pm
Two 3-week sessions in the heart of NYC with hands-on directing, acting, and production collaboration.
Dates: June 29 — July 17, 2026
Mon–Fri, 10:30am–5pm (no class on July 4)
Dates: July 20 — August 7, 2026
Mon–Fri, 10:30am–4:30pm
Starts July 20, 2026
FilmLaunch offers an exciting introduction to the dynamic world of digital media. Students will embark on a journey through the rich legacy of cinematic storytelling, exploring everything from the origins of the first moving images to the evolution of film, all the way to the video content we consume on our phones today. The course emphasizes how stories can drive change in the world, analyzing works from revolutionary filmmakers, especially those rooted in New York City—home to some of the greatest stories ever told. As the storytellers of tomorrow, you will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on technical filmmaking, culminating in a collaborative project where you will work in teams to write, direct, and produce a short film together.
Starts June 29 & July 20, 2026
The Actor's Lab introduces SOCAPA City Cinema’s innovative "toolbox" approach to acting, allowing students to explore a variety of techniques and discover what resonates most with their unique style. Participants will actively engage with these methods through scenes curated by the instructor, and they will have the chance to apply their skills in student short films produced by their filmmaking peers. This immersive experience fosters creativity and collaboration, empowering students to develop their craft in a dynamic environment.
Starts June 29, 2026
Writers Room immerses students in the fundamentals of screenwriting, from idea generation and narrative structure to developing characters and crafting authentic scenes. Designed for aspiring writers, the course provides hands-on experience in writing short screenplays and developing treatments for feature films and TV pilots. Alongside writing exercises, you’ll gain insight into the industry’s inner workings, preparing you for the dynamic world of film and television writing.
