Event Timeline:
Friday, September 25, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM PT
Saturday, September 26, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM PT
About the Workshop:
Great performances don't happen by accident — they're directed. Are you ready to step up?
This isn't just a workshop. It's a rare, highly selective opportunity to train alongside elite industry professionals. Curated by the Television Academy's Directors, Writers, and Performers Peer Groups, this exclusive two-day intensive is designed for emerging and early-career directors who are serious about mastering the craft of working with actors.
You won't just learn — you'll rehearse, direct, observe, and connect.
This hands-on, immersive experience will transform how you communicate with performers and elevate your storytelling.
Whether you're preparing for your first episodic job or looking to bring deeper truth to your next short, this intensive will sharpen your instincts and elevate your directorial voice.
Admission is extremely limited — only 12 directors will be selected.
This is your invitation to take the seat you've been working toward.
You will be notified within three days indicating whether you have or have not been selected to participate.
The workshop will be led by two-time Emmy Award-winning Mary Lou Belli. She has been directing television for over 30 years including NCIS: New Orleans, Black Lightning, Bull, Legacies, Station 19, Sweet Magnolias, Pitch, Monk, Famous in Love, Devious Maids, The Quad, American Woman, and Hart of Dixie, Disney's The Secret of Sulphur Springs, The Ms. Pat Show, Wizards of Waverly Place, Sister, Sister, Girlfriends, and The Game. She is the co-author of four books: The NEW Sitcom Career Book, Acting for Young Actors, Acting for the Screen, and Directors Tell the Story, which she co-wrote with fellow DGA member Bethany Rooney. She is currently serving her second term as co-Governor of the Television Academy’s Directors Peer Group.
If you are feeling ill, please do not attend.
This event is presented and hosted by the Television Academy.