Fundamentals of Directing: From Visualization to Post-Production – 4 Part Lab (September 2026)

4-Part Private, Interactive Zoom Class — 100% Satisfaction Rating

ONLY 4 Spots Remain - Learn from an accomplished director who's worked for Hulu, FX, Comedy Central, and more.

Includes downloadable handouts on shot lists, camera levels, pre-production, and more.

2026 is one of the best times in years to step into the director's chair. Streamers, networks, and independent producers are hungry for fresh voices who can walk onto a set and lead with confidence — and that's exactly the skill set this class builds. Directing means mastering every stage of a project: developing your visual point of view, working with actors, planning pre-production, and steering post-production to the finish line. Master that, and you put yourself in the room for opportunities most filmmakers spend years chasing.

Heath Cullens is a director best known for It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Great Minds with Dan Harmon, and FX's You're the Worst, with additional credits including Idiotsitter (Comedy Central), Deadbeat (Hulu), and Black Jesus (Adult Swim). He also produced the Lionsgate feature Armed Response, starring Cary Elwes, Ethan Embry, and Alan Arkin. A Drama League Directing Fellowship recipient and Lincoln Center Theater Directors Lab member, Heath is sharing his full process exclusively with Stage 32.

Over four sessions, you'll learn:

• Session 1 — The Director's Role: Your visual style and point of view, key terminology, and effective collaboration.
• Session 2 — Pre-Production: Text analysis, shot lists, camera basics, and scheduling.
• Session 3 — Production: Working with actors, making your day, knowing when you've "got the shot," and managing your crew.
• Session 4 — Post-Production: Working with your editor and navigating notes from producers and investors.

You'll leave with a clear, practical grasp of every step a director takes — and the confidence to bring it straight into your next project.

Plus, exclusive handouts to use on set:

• Camera level & shot size guide
• Shot list templates
• Ground plans (hand-drawn examples)
• Pre-production guide
• Mood board
• Camera bible & techniques

This interactive class runs on Zoom and goes substantially deeper than a webinar. Once you sign up, you'll be connected by email with Heath and sent a questionnaire so he can tailor feedback to your project from day one. You'll have his direct email access for the full class — like a mentor on demand. Can't attend live? Every session is recorded and in your Stage 32 library within 48 hours. You'll also get a dedicated lounge to connect with fellow classmates.

What past students say:

"Sometimes you sign up for a class not knowing what to expect. This one I could never have anticipated — Heath went above and beyond. One of the best classes I've taken on Stage 32 or anywhere else." — Angela R.

"Heath gave us the ability to look for the big ideas when directing, not just one or two nuggets. Thank you for always bringing the best instructors." — Susan L.