
Workshops


Want to see a specific workshop get added to the festival? Have a workshop you really liked in the past? Help us make next year's festival even better by providing YOUR feedback! Tell us what workshops you would like to see happen at Porchlight next year.
Previous Workshops
01
Mary Hollis Inboden – Nailing the On-Camera Audition
Learn the art of auditioning with working actor Mary Hollis Inboden in this hands-on workshop
03
Sahlah Tepes– Behind the Mask: How Special Effects Makeup Transforms
Learn the art of transformation with FX makeup artist Sahlah Tepes! Hands-on and beginner-friendly, this workshop is a must for horror fans, makeup artists, and curious creatives.
05
Scott Baney – Building Worlds: The Secrets of Crafting Props
Join prop artist Scott Baney for a hands-on dive into prop-making magic, from swords to sci-fi gadgets.
07
Haulston Mann – Acting on Stage vs. Screen
Explore the unique challenges (and perks!) of stage vs. screen acting with Haulston Mann. Practice scenes for both!
09
Jen Gerber – Before You Roll: Planning & Setiquette 101
Want to break into film production? Start smart with this 2-day workshop from director Jen Gerber.
02
Chris Churchill – Picture This: The Art of Visual Storytelling in Film
Join director Chris Churchill to learn how shot composition, color, and camera movement bring your story to life.
04
Jordan Rice – Exploring the VFX of Knuckles
Join Jordan Rice from Outpost VFX to see how teams create jaw-dropping visuals, and find your place in the pipeline.
06
Matthew Walton – Lighting the Way: Creating the Right Atmosphere on Screen
Explore how lighting shapes emotion, scene, and story with filmmaker Matthew Walton.
08
Coltan Scrivner – Why Horror Villains are Cats
Join horror researcher Coltan Scrivner as he uncovers the primal psychology behind your favorite villains.
10
Jo Rae – Acting Workshop
Join the Acting Workshop with Jonesboro native Jo Rae for an immersive, hands-on experience designed to help you grow in confidence, technique, and presence!