Lights, camera, action! If you dream of making cinematic masterpieces, Sun Prairie Media Center’s summer media workshops are an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Designed for young aspiring journalists, writers, filmmakers, and actors, editors and animators these workshops offer a dynamic space to unleash creativity.
Through hands-on activities at our conveniently located venue in the library, participants will dive into the world of media production, refining their communication skills and bringing their ideas to life. With a camera in hand, a spark of innovation, and a supportive crew team, the possibilities are endless!
Participants will also enjoy daily snacks and receive a digital copy of their projects when the workshop is complete. Scholarships are available for those who qualify!
INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEW REGISTRATION PROCESS
NEW – Online Registration with Xplor at cityofsunprairie.perfectmind.com
Registration opens at 9am on April 8
Registration deadline is set for June 29, however it will remain open until the workshops are filled.
NOTE: Summer workshop schedules are subject to change based on the Sun Prairie Public Library construction project.
Sun Prairie Media Center Memberships are available for discounts on Summer Workshop programs.
Pam Steitz Scholarship is available to those who qualify. Applications must be submitted prior to completing the online registration process to receive the discount rate
2025 SUMMER WORKSHOPS:
Shutterbugs: A Kids’ Summer Adventure in Photography!
This workshop includes a “photo safari” at Sheehan Park, where participants will learn photography basics and explore various subjects. Later, students will edit their photos and learn digital art and graphic design techniques. By the end of the week, each student will create their own original slideshow to highlight their work.
Ages 9-14
Min 4 / Max 6
Session 1: July 7-10, 9am-12pm
FEE: $100 Member / $140 Non-Member
Young Newsmakers: Summer Reporting & Documentary Camp!
Join us for “Adventures in News Reporting” to enhance your newsgathering and documentary skills. Over four days, you’ll learn interviewing techniques, documenting, camera work, and visual storytelling. The following days involve on-location reporting and reviewing footage in the computer lab.
Ages 11-14
Min 6 / Max 8
July 7-10, 1:30-4:30pm
FEE: $100 Member / $140 Non-Member
Animation Magic: Kids Creating Original Animation Projects
Discover how animators create animated cartoons and movies. Designed for students with a desire to learn, this workshop focuses on traditional stop-motion techniques and 2D animation techniques. Learn how to bring art to life with animation. Then add sound and special effects!
Ages 9-14
Min 6 / Max 8
SESSION 1: July 14-17, 9am-12pm
SESSION 2: July 28-31, 1:30pm-4:30pm
FEE: $100 Member / $140 Non-Member
You can Write and Film a Movie! / Screenwriting for Aspiring Filmmakers
This workshop will explore the writing part of filmmaking. Each student will create their own original screenplay. Then, the students will get a taste of film production as they work together by acting in and filming each screenplay. With the emphasis on writing, students will learn to tell their stories with visuals in mind. And they will see their creations come to life on the big screen.
Ages 9-14
Min 6 / Max 8
July 14-17, 1:30pm-4:30pm
KIDS4 Summer TV Studio: Broadcasting Live!
Prepare for an exhilarating journey through the world of live television! From brainstorming innovative script concepts to the artistry of directing, we will create a LIVE television show right in the heart of the studio. This two-day workshop promises to be a dynamic blend of fun, creativity, and collaboration as we develop a show destined to be memorable. What remarkable spectacle will you envision? The spotlight is on you!
Ages 11-14
Min 8 / Max 10
July 21-22, 1:30pm-4:30pm
Radio Rockstars: Summer Podcast Adventures
Explore podcasting as a unique way to share your thoughts and passions with the community. Join our two-day workshop to gain hands-on experience in our 103.5 FM studio studios with state-of-the-art equipment. Play music, participate in lively talk radio, and even go live on 103.5 FM The Sun! Focusing on on-air announcing, programming music, and conducting interviews. It’s This is an excellent chance for young individuals to build confidence on the microphone.
Ages 9-14
Min 6 / Max 8
July 23-24, 1:30pm-4:30pm
Young Filmmakers: Lights, Camera, Action! (Film School and Filmmaking Basics)
Students will engage in film production by creating a summer blockbuster, covering all stages from pre-production to post-production. They’ll learn professional shooting and editing techniques, rotate through roles such as director or camera operator, or specialize in one. The team will produce a unique movie using live sets, special effects, green screen, and create a short trailer.
Ages 9-11
Min 6 / Max 8
July 28-31, 9am-12pm
