Welcome!
Welcome to the New York Film Academy’s summer programs for kids in Los Angeles! Whether they’ll be learning the craft of filmmaking or acting for the camera, students should come ready to commit themselves to an intensive, fun, and rewarding experience.
We ask that parents read through this packet carefully. It provides information that will prove invaluable in orienting yourselves to our program.
We look forward to an exciting summer in Los Angeles!
NYFA at a Glance
MISSION STATEMENT
NYFA Kids Programs are based on the philosophy of “learn by doing.” Every curriculum stems from that belief. NYFA believes that the most effective way for our campers to master their chosen craft is to immediately start creating their own work in a hands-on intensive working environment.
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
NYFA Kids Programs are based on the philosophy of “learn by doing.” Every curriculum stems from that belief. NYFA believes that the most effective way for our campers to master their chosen craft is to immediately start creating their own work in a hands-on intensive working environment.
NYFA VALUES
Leadership – To be a successful artist in these collaborative fields, leadership qualities are important. Through the work and development of the projects that campers make or perform in, they can enhance their ability to engage others to work together and create impactful art.
Creativity – We encourage campers to think outside the box. The challenges inherent in these crafts force campers to develop creative solutions to achieve desired results.
Collaboration – Quality leadership and collaboration go hand in hand. To achieve educational and creative goals, campers must work together and often depend on their classmates’ assistance to execute their projects. Collaboration fosters the ability to conduct oneself with professionalism and respect to others and their creativity.
Discipline – The discipline required to create quality work is extraordinary. A camper will need to practice the art of discipline, and try their hand at a craft that requires full dedication to succeed.
Expression and Individuality – Through visual and performing arts, our campers have an extraordinary opportunity to express their point of view and discuss their thoughts, ideas and concerns. We encourage campers to use their own experiences to inform their work, which often results in truthful and moving storytelling.
OUR INSTRUCTORS
NYFA’s faculty members are active performing and visual arts professionals. They all have a passion for the arts including storytelling and teaching and are consistently given the highest praise from our campers.
STAFFING
The Director of Youth Programs supervises all Kids Program staff, which includes instructors, technical and teaching assistants. Questions regarding Camper Services should be directed to the Director of Youth Programs.
Registration
All NYFA camps have open enrollment, though NYFA prerequisites may apply. No previous experience is required. The application for the camps may be filled out online. A deposit ($500) is required to secure the camper’s spot in the program of their choice. Once the application and the deposit have been made, the camper will receive an online packet containing forms that must be filled out by the camper and their parents/ guardians. Such forms include COVID protocols, rules and regulations, medical forms and pick up release forms.
Summer Camp Forms In Applicant Portal
Parents and students will need to sign all required Summer Forms in the Application Portal.
In addition to signing all required forms, you will need to submit the Health Examination Form, front and back copy of medical insurance card detailing health information (for student), and a CURRENT photo (of student) in the Applicant Portal.
If you have any questions, contact us at 818-333-3558 ext. 1085 or email [email protected]
Orientation
Due to space restrictions we will not be asking parents to attend Monday Orientations. Due to this we ask you that please read the Welcome Letter Email from the Director of Programs in its entirety, which will arrive before your program starts.
Dates
Orientation (depending on your start date):
Monday, July 8th – 9 am
Monday, July 22nd – 9 am
Monday, August 5th – 9 am
Supervision
Students in the kids program will be supervised at all times – in class, while filming in the school or in the surrounding areas, at lunch, and up until the time they are picked up at the end of the day.
The pick up process will include signing your student out with a teaching assistant at the end of each day at 4PM. Please refer to the details in your welcome letter.
Lunch
Students have one hour to eat lunch. All students must bring a packed lunch that does not need to be refrigerated or microwaved each day. There will be no ability to order or purchase lunch elsewhere.
Transportation
Please make all transportation arrangements before the program begins. It is important that all students arrive on time every day (as set by the schedule you’ll receive at orientation).
Students must be picked up at 4:00 PM.
Medical Care
If students are in need of any medical attention, they should immediately advise their instructor or teaching assistant. Staff will take them directly to the nearest medical facility.
If needed, please make sure your child is supplied with any prescription medication they will need for the duration of your program. (Please note: we cannot be responsible for dispensing medication – this is the responsibility of the student). If the student has a recurring medical condition we should be made aware of, please send us his or her medical history, as well as any information or records that may assist doctors in treatment.
Please inform us of any allergies the student may have on the Medical Release form.
We suggest you contact your insurance provider if you are unsure whether your policy covers your child in Los Angeles, CA.
Remember to fill out the medical information form in the Applicant Portal and upload the front and back of your insurance card.
Important Contact Info
NYFA Address:
3300 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91505
NYFA Main Office Number: (818) 333-3558
NYFA Website: nyfa.edu/summer-camps
General Questions:
Email: [email protected]
Camp Director Bio
Christopher Pettoni is a writer, actor, filmmaker and educator based in Los Angeles who has been a member of the NYFA community since 2016. He received a BFA in Film and Television Production from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a Minor in Producing. He also holds an MFA in Screenwriting from California State University Northridge, earning both degrees with honors. Chris has studied acting at the Stella Adler Academy & Studio in Los Angeles and New York City. His work has been honored in screenwriting competitions and film festivals across the country, and has been exhibited on major television networks. Chris believes in the power of art and storytelling to heal society and uplift individuals toward the highest expression of themselves. His passions include food, travel and finding inspiration in nature.
Checklist
Tuition is due 30 days before the start of your program. Please pay via this link below:
ATTN: Kids Program
*You will need your student’s ID number which is located in the top corner of the invoice that was sent to you via email.
- Inform NYFA of any changes to your address, email or phone.
- Complete your Summer Forms in the Applicant Portal (including the medical release form, self release form and COVID-19 forms).
- Please contact us with any questions.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOU THIS SUMMER!
Preparation
We look forward to seeing the amazing work you will produce during camp. In the following pages we have outlined information for Filmmaking and Acting for Film. Please read through the section designated for your program.
FILMMAKING STUDENTS
While their ideas will evolve throughout the program, filmmaking students may give themselves a head start by engaging in some light preparation prior to starting the workshop. Students should prepare by writing down any story ideas, character notes or other thoughts related to possible film projects. Remember to think visually! Students can begin to sketch stories out in storyboard form, similar to a comic book. Students should bring this material with them to class. Film students should also consider music they will use in their films.
ACTING FOR FILM STUDENTS
Acting for Film students can prepare by watching their favorite actors in movies and on television! But afterwards they should put their thinking hats on and ask themselves, what is it about the performance that makes the actor so captivating? Students should note specific scenes that move them and attempt to be able to explain why.
In preparation for the workshop, we encourage acting for film students to take a shot at reading plays and scripts involving young people. They can find these either online, or in printed compilations found in the library or bookstore. (One example: “Awesome Plays for Teens & Tweens” by Christina Hamlett). If there is a particular scene or monologue they wish to work on, they should bring it to class! Their instructors may be able to integrate the piece into the curriculum.
