On May 10, Chicago-area AD/UPMs attended a skills training event. Presented by the DGA Training Program and the Chicago Coordinating Committee the event was designed for these members to brush up on the essential skills required to successfully do the job of an Assistant Director.
After an introduction from DGA Field Representative Jennifer Peat, the attendees were treated to a Q&A with UPM Rich Lederer (Empire), 2nd AD Andrew Spellman (Chicago Med) and Production Coordinator RoseMary Prodonovich (Proven Innocent), where the panelists discussed paperwork and set etiquette.
Following the panel discussion, the attendees learned more about the employment of actors under the SAG-AFTRA Codified Basic Agreement in a special presentation from SAG-AFTRA’s Director of TV/Theatrical Kathy Byrne.
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 Co-Chaired by Directors John McNaughton and Thomas Wekony, Jr.