This production initiative at Brandcenter turns student scripts into professionally produced ads.
At its core, the initiative is an ambitious experiment in collaboration, mentorship, and local film community development.
Graduate students from the Brandcenter’s Art Direction and Copywriting tracks are selected to have their original scripts produced, working alongside seasoned professionals to bring their ideas to life. Through this immersive experience, they gain a deep understanding of the full production process, and learn how to adapt and elevate their ideas in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
At Brandcenter, we prepare students for a future shaped by creativity and emerging technologies. As AI continues to transform creative workflows, this initiative reinforces the enduring value of traditional production skills. The Production Master Class provides a powerful foundation in creative collaboration, sharpening students’ craft and strengthening their ability to adapt, collaborate, and lead.
“This opportunity is invaluable to our students as they head into their creative careers. Not only do they experience the steps of pre- and post-production first hand, but they also see how their ideas can improve through collaboration with professionals. Understanding that production is an adaptive, collaborative process is crucial in our industry. Plus, having a professionally produced spot in their portfolio can elevate how recruiters view their work.”
Tom Scharpf, Chair of Art Direction, pictured above (far left) on the set of the Party City spot
The Work:
MasterClass: Fashion Farmer
Art Director – Chen Li (Art Direction, 2026)
Art Director – Lori Tsai (Art Direction, 2026)
Copywriter – Casey Hickman (Copywriting, 2026)
Production Manager – Gabe Glassmann (Creative Brand Management, 2026)
Creative Director – Tom Scharpf (Art Direction, 1998), Chair of Art Direction
Director: FWENS (Micah Gendron+Devin Whetstone)
Producers: Christina Garnett, John Marin, Micah Gendron
Expand Credits
PRODUCTION + POST PRODUCTION:
Director: FWENS (Micah Gendron+Devin Whetstone)
Producers: Christina Garnett, John Marin Makes, Micah Gendron
Assistant Director: Brendan Riley
Director of Photography: Alex Kent
1st AC: Scott Inge
2nd AC: Eric Eaton
Gaffer: Trevor Hart
Key Grip (G&E Swing): Robb Barnes
2nd Grip: Seth Peterson
Production Designer: Mariya Boykova
Art Director: Lauren Healy-Flora
Art Assistant: Ruben Andres
Stylist: Esther J Han
Wardrobe Assistant: Colter Beach
Production Assistant: Christian Stephens
Casting Director: Sheri Bias
OCP (Non-Union): Byrdie Hearn
OCP (Non-Union): Rayna Wilson
OCP (Non-Union): Dave Hobbs
BTS: Ben Comenetz
Editor: Max Redinger
Assistant Editor: Sebastian Zufelt
Sound Design, Audio Mix: Revolve Audio, Paul
Color + Flame + Finish: Randie Swanberg
Post Production: No.6
Producers: John McAdorey, Laura Molinaro, Alex Tracy
Executive Producer: Craig Martin
Special Thanks:
VA Film Office
The Hanover House
Virginia production crews
Party City
Production Company – Mondial
Director – Darren Genet, ASC
Executive Producer – Patrick Mack, Mondial
Agency Producer – Marjorie Fajardo, The Martin Agency
Peter Nashel, Creative Director/Founder, duotone audio group
Ross Hopman, Executive Producer, duotone audio group
Gio Lobato, Senior Producer, duotone audio group
Dana Hom, Director, Music Licensing, duotone audio group
Photo courtesy FWENS
“This project reminded me that presenting creative work is more than just selling something. A great creative presentation invites people to collaborate on a shared vision.””
Henry Coffey (Copywriting, 2025), pictured above (second from right) as part of the U-Haul team
Industry Partners
These dedicated professional partners make the Production Master Class possible.
