Disney/ABC DGA Directing Program Submission Period Opens Today

Launched in 2001, the Disney/ABC DGA Directing Program is one of the longest-running programs of its kind in the entertainment industry. Created through the Talent Development & Diversity department, the two-year professional Directing Program focuses on potential episodic directing opportunities on Disney/ABC series. The Los Angeles-based program affords selected participants shadowing assignments with veteran episodic directors, mentoring by Disney/ABC Television Group (DATG) network or studio creative executives and exposure to an array of industry professionals. The submission period opens Tuesday, October 1, 2013 through 11:59 pm ET/PT Wednesday, November 27, 2013. For more information about the application process visit www.abctalentdevelopment.com

Current program director Rob Greenlea, a former dolly grip, made his episodic directing debut last season on "Grey's Anatomy." His work not only earned him praise, but a second directing assignment this season scheduled to shoot in March, 2014. After the 2010 redesign of the program, participating directors have secured a number of directing assignments on current and past series including "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC), "Desperate Housewives" (ABC), "Private Practice" (ABC), "Pretty Little Liars" (ABC Family) and "Shake It Up" (Disney Channel).

Among the program directors who have successfully launched episodic directing careers are Zetna Fuentes, "Pretty Little Liars," Switched at Birth, "The Carrie Diaries," and Seith Mann "Nurse Jackie" and "Elementary." With an unprecedented 25 DATG series supporting the program, the directing talent pool has attracted an array of newcomers and industry professionals including actors Regina King, "Southland" and Kimberly McCullough, "General Hospital," award-winning writer/director Ryan Coogler, "Fruitvale Station," editor Susan Vaill, "Grey's Anatomy," music video director Nzingha Stewart, "Joss Stone,""Jay-Z" and comedy writer Maxine Lapiduss "Roseanne."

Program applicants must be at least 21 years of age and able to legally work in the United States. Previous professional experience working in production is strongly encouraged.

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