On May 31, DGA members from the Chicago-area gathered for a day of learning during a pair of presentations designed to enhance the knowledge of AD/UPMs.
The day kicked off with Everything You Wanted to Know About SAG-AFTRA Contracts (But Were Afraid to Ask!), a discussion hosted by the DGA Assistant Director Training Program. Kathy Byrne, SAG-AFTRA's Director of Film and Television in Chicago, led the attendees in a practical overview of the rules and regulations covering the employment of principals and minors under the new SAG-AFTRA Codified Basic Agreement.
Following the SAG-AFTRA presentation, the second half of the seminar was a panel discussion on set etiquette presented by the DGA’s Chicago Coordinating Committee (CCC). In a conversation moderated by CCC member/UPM Richard Lederer (Empire), 1st ADs Lorin Fulton (South Side), James R. Giovannetti, Jr. (Chicago Fire), Michelle Gonsiorek (Chicago Med), and 2nd AD Stefan Rand (Chicago Fire) explored subjects such as including running the first team, checking in background performers and getting them camera ready, and setting the background action.
Both discussions were followed by a Q&A period where the presenters took questions from the audience.
About the Committee:
The Chicago Coordinating Committee was formed in the mid-1960s to coordinate Guild activities in the Chicago Area, including acting as liaison between members and the Guild, disseminating information, and promoting public awareness of the Guild. The Committee is currently Co-Chaired by Directors John McNaughton and Thomas Wekony, Jr.
About the Assistant Director Training Program
The DGA Assistant Director Training Program is designed to provide opportunities for a limited number of individuals to become Assistant Directors in Film, Film Television & Commercial production. Upon completion of the program, graduates are qualified to join the DGA as Second Assistant Directors..