Blog

For over 100 years, Utah has served as a backdrop for Hollywood films and television. But the draw to Utah isn’t down to our memorable landscapes alone–it’s in large part due to the talent pool we are building to support these productions on arrival. . Here at Spy Hop, we are invested in preparing the next generation of professional storytellers to become part of this thriving economy. 

Spy Hop, a leader in the field of youth media arts education, announced today that Executive Director Kasandra VerBrugghen will be stepping down from her position this spring. Since joining the organization in 2008, VerBrugghen has transformed Spy Hop from a small, youth media arts organization, into a thriving, nationally recognized nonprofit.

It is with both a heavy heart and a deep sense of fulfillment that I write to share that after nearly 17 years at Spy Hop, I will be stepping down from my position as Executive Director this spring. This decision comes after much reflection and with a commitment to ensuring that Spy Hop continues to thrive under new leadership for many years to come.

Spy Hop’s PitchNic Premiere 2024 celebrated young filmmakers’ short films debuting on the big screen at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center. As one of the most prestigious film programs in the nation, these student filmmakers screened and answered questions about their film to a live audience.

During FanX, Spy Hop hosted a panel where attendees made a game in 50 minutes with the guidance of design mentors, Liz and Mercedes! Check out each unique maze game, and see if you can solve them all.

August 1st — The Urban Arts Gallery buzzed with excitement as Spy Hop students took over a section of this incredible local spot to showcase their creativity for Pixel Gallery. The main event for the evening? The debut of a brand new video game, Dig! Shovel! Go!, which the Power Up! students have spent the last year bringing to life through

On the warm evening of July 18th, Soundwell was packed with community supporters, family, and friends, all eager to cheer on young musical artists for their final performances as part of the Resonate and Musicology programs at Spy Hop. This show, Heatwave, was the final hurrah and celebration of the album releases from two exceptional music groups: SLC F8 and

Spy Hop has been selected to receive a $325,000 grant from the NBA Foundation for programmatic support and to strengthen Spy Hop’s Amplify Black Youth Voice Initiative. The initiative increases Black youth and young adult engagement with Spy Hop’s free media arts mentorships in film, music, audio, and design and leverages Phase 2 Productions, Spy Hop’s video production company, to uplift Black-owned businesses and community partnerships.

Reel Stories is Spy Hop’s longest running film program! Students in this class spend three weeks writing, planning, and filming their own short films that speak to who they are and what they’re interested in. This class culminates in a community screening at the Salt Lake City Public Library. Check out this year’s films, read a bit about each filmmaker, and