Take One is a 12‑week, semester‑long filmmaking lab led by two experienced instructors hosted at Cactus Club.
This free program introduces participants to many stages of the filmmaking process—from brainstorming ideas and writing scripts to hands‑on production, editing, and final screenings.
Key objectives include:
• Providing a comprehensive foundation in many aspects of film production
• Helping students identify their areas of passion—be it cinematography, writing, directing, sound design, or editing
• Building professional networks within the local and broader filmmaking communities
• Empowering students to gain confidence and develop their creative voice as emerging filmmakers
• Develop familiarity with industry-standard editing software
Students will complete the course with not just skills and finished short films, but also the support of community mentors and peers. MCTS Transportation cards will be provided.
Take One Applicaton
Launched in Fall 2025, Take One is a free, semester-long youth filmmaking program that introduces teens to fundamentals of visual storytelling, video production, editing and art collaboration. Through hands-on workshops, students learn to develop ideas, operate equipment, and produce their own short films in an artist-powered, supportive, and inclusive environment.
The goal is to impart students with an understanding of many elements of the filmmaking process, find what areas of filmmaking interest them the most, make professional connections in the filmmaking community (locally and nationally/internationally), and build confidence as emerging filmmakers. The class accommodates 30 students each semester and registration is free to all.
Take One grows young creative talent across Milwaukee, connects students to broader communities of their interest and celebrates a culture of symbiotic arts education. Providing free equipment and educational resources, this youth program transforms student experiences and expands arts accessibility in the city.
Enrollment for the Fall 2026 course is now open!
Please note that the application to enroll does not guarantee admission into the program. Depending on the number of applicants, there will be a selection process to ensure that we are serving students from across the city. A plurality of zip codes will inform this process.
- Designed for high school aged students
- 12-week program led by two instructors
- The goal is to impart students with an introductory understanding of many elements of the filmmaking process, find what areas of filmmaking interest them the most, make professional connections in the filmmaking community, and build confidence as emerging filmmakers
- The class will accommodate 30 students in a semester and registration will be free to all.
- Learn the basics of industry-standard editing software with included subscriptions to Adobe Premiere.
- MCTS pre-loaded bus passes provided as needed
- Classes on-site at Cactus Club inside our live room at 2496 S. Wentworth Ave.
- Weekly guest presentations/workshops from film professionals
- An overview of the filmmaking process- start to finish: pre-production, lighting/cinematography, directing, sound design, editing.
- End of semester student film showcase at local theater
Why is Take One Special:
- Hands-on learning: students create films from concept to final cut
- Accessible programming: free!
- Mentorship driven: teaching artists and weekly industry guests guide students through various stages of production
- Youth voice centered: curriculum is adapted directly to student needs
Looking for ways to support Take One? We are looking for:
- Financial support for supplies, equipment, and teaching artist stipends
- Support for the final screening event for the student showcase
- Partners for direct class participation or in-kind resources
