Parking is free and provided by the venue.

Yes, children age 7+ accompanied by an adult or legal guardian are welcome.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible and Handicap parking also available.

Saturday, September 6

Actor Empowerment Summit & Solidarity Brunch - Chicago 2025

By Michael A. Dean

Get ready to boost your acting career at the Actor Empowerment Summit - a weekend full of workshops, networking, and inspiration!

Date and time

Location

CineCity Studios

2429 w 14th street Chicago, IL 60608

Agenda

Saturday 9.6

Sunday 9.7

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Welcome to the Actor Empowerment Summit - Doors Open

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Coffee Connections with Cyn Live!

Cynthia Kaye McWilliams

Glenn Davis

☕️✨ Kicking off AES Chicago 2025 - Coffee with Cyn She's bold, she's brilliant, and she's brewing up real talk with Creative Director of the Steppenwolf Theatre & Tony Award Winner - Purpose - Glen...

11:15 AM - 11:45 AM

Opening Session w/Glenn Morshower

Glenn Morshower

Beloved actor, coach, and mentor Glenn Morshower sets the tone with his signature blend of inspiration, humor, and wisdom. Glenn Introduces Chuck Brown. A message from AFCU. Glenn Morshower Introduce...

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM

Self-Tape to Set Panel

Randy Bernales

James DuMont

Experts walk actors through the journey from audition tape to being on set — with practical strategies for landing roles and thriving on set. Featuring Randy Bernales, James DuMont +

12:45 PM - 1:00 PM

JJ Velazquez — Becoming Who You Are

JJ Velazquez

KeyNote Speaker: JJ shares his remarkable journey from wrongful incarceration to national advocate and storyteller, offering insight on resilience and reclaiming purpose.

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Lunch (served) + JJ Velazquez Book Signing

A break to eat, connect, and recharge. JJ Velazquez will sign copies of his book during lunch. After Lunch, A Special Message from Sponsor: Mark B. Weiss.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Actor Workshop Block 1

Keith Arthur Bolden

LaRoyce Hawkins

James DuMont

Hands-on training led by one of our coaches: Amy Lyndon, LaRoyce Hawkins, James DuMont, Keith Arthur Bolden. Actors gain practical tools for craft and career.

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM

Game Show Q&A: Audition Answers

CynCity Creative

A high-energy, interactive session styled like a live game show. Attendees ask audition questions, and experts deliver live, unfiltered answers with humor and strategy. Lead by CynCityCreative.

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Artistry Mentor Panel

Keith Arthur Bolden

Tonia Jackson

Kurt Naebig

Erica Arvold

Veteran artists share unfiltered stories and career wisdom, offering mentorship and guidance on sustaining a creative path. Featuring Tonia Jackson, Kurt Naebig, + Moderated by Keith Arthur Bolden.

5:45 PM - 6:45 PM

Equity in Filmmaking Panel

Greg Kwedar

Clarence Maclin

JJ Velazquez

Director Greg Kwedar (Sing Sing) discusses his groundbreaking model of equal pay for all cast and crew, and how equitable filmmaking is reshaping Hollywood. Featuring Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin, & ...

Good to know

Highlights

1 day, 6 hours
ALL AGES
In person
Free venue parking
Doors at 9:00 AM

Refund Policy

No Refunds

About this event

Film & Media • TV

Welcome to the Actor Empowerment - Summit Chicago 2025!

Join us on Saturday, September 6th & 7th 2025 at CineCity Studios for a day filled with inspiration, networking, and empowerment for actors of all levels.

This 2 Day in-person event will feature multiple workshops, panel discussions, actor activations, and keynote speakers who will share their insights and experiences in the entertainment industry.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow actors and industry professionals to take your career to the next level. Come Ready to be Inspired and Empowered. Filtered water stations available. Please bring water tubmlers & cups, a pen and favorite notebook.

Full Run of Show Below!

For all Questions contact your Host: Michael A. Dean

actorempowermentsummit@gmail.com

Follow @actorsummit for updates

Organized by

Michael A. Dean

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