Manitoba Directors Lab

In partnership with:

A hands-on directing lab for emerging to mid-level Manitoba-based directors working in scripted film.

Applications open

Apply by February 11, 2026 at 5 p.m. CT

Apply now

About

The Manitoba Directors Lab, delivered in partnership with On Screen Manitoba, is a five-day, full-time, Winnipeg-based training program for up to six emerging to mid-level directors living in Manitoba.

The program is aimed at creators who wish to develop their skills as a director of scripted projects.

Designed as an intensive hands-on lab, the program strengthens participants’ on-set directing skills while supporting professional growth in scripted film production.

Under the guidance of award-winning director Karen Lam, the lab combines workshops, case studies and practical exercises focused on scene breakdown, working with an editor, shot listing, blocking and interviewing for directing jobs. Participants will work with local expert department heads to explore the director’s relationship with key departments such as casting, visual effects, cinematography and stunts.

At a glance

  • Applications open: January 14, 2026
  • Applications close: February 11, 2026 at 5 p.m. CT
  • Selected participants notified: February 19, 2026

Key information

Program dates
March 23 to 27, 2026
Location
Full-time, in-person in Winnipeg
Cost
Application and tuition fees are generously covered by our partners. Limited travel and accommodation support may be available for participants living outside Winnipeg.

To be eligible you must:

  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Currently live Manitoba, Canada
  • Be aged 18 or over
  • Have at least one directing credit. This may include a short film, web series episode, scripted digital content or other comparable scripted work
  • Not participate in another training program that would conflict with your full-time participation in the lab

We strongly encourage applications from Manitoba-based directors who also identify as one or more of the following: Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, women, 2SLGBTQ+, people with disabilities and / or members of religious minority communities.

Program phases

Commitment to underrepresented voices

The National Screen Institute partners with a visionary network of donors, businesses, and private and public organizations to provide industry-informed training in screen-based media, equipping creators across Canada with the skills to tell unforgettable stories. 

By prioritizing storytellers from equity-deserving communities – including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, women, 2SLGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and those in regional and remote areas – the institute helps build a more sustainable industry and a workforce ready to meet evolving market demands. 

Students and alumni find their voices and places on the global stage, strengthening the creative economy and shaping a better world. 

Questions

Please review the FAQs below. If you have any further questions or need support, email Ursula at ursula.lawson@nsi-canada.ca or call 204-956-7800.

Frequently asked questions

Meet the faculty

A person with long dark hair smiles while looking off to the side with a hand under her chin. She is wearing a light-colored top, and the background is bright and plain.

Karen Lam

Director Advisor

Ursula-Lawson

Ursula Lawson

Senior Programs Manager

Jess-Gibson

Jessica Gibson

Manager of Programs & Development

Program Partners

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