Hold Her Hand
Scranton, Pennsylvania | Film Feature
Drama
A troubled American soldier meets a fiery Irish bartender one fateful night in 2006, altering the trajectory of both their lives. There's a spark that neither can deny, but they both face the challenge of processing their pasts in order to show up vulnerably and courageously for one another.
Hold Her Hand
Scranton, Pennsylvania | Film Feature
Drama
1 Campaigns | Pennsylvania, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $13,030 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
57 supporters | followers
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A troubled American soldier meets a fiery Irish bartender one fateful night in 2006, altering the trajectory of both their lives. There's a spark that neither can deny, but they both face the challenge of processing their pasts in order to show up vulnerably and courageously for one another.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
.jpeg)
A troubled American soldier meets a fiery Irish bartender one fateful night in 2006, altering the trajectory of both their lives. There's a spark that neither can deny, but they both face the challenge of processing their pasts in order to show up vulnerably and courageously for one another.
Jack, who's on leave during his time serving in the War in Iraq, walks into a bar in Sligo, Ireland with a bachelor party full of lifelong friends. He sees Evelyn slinging drinks. She's fire on the inside but cool as a cucumber externally. Why is he so drawn to her? And she to him? It could be that she's clever enough to make his whole crew shoot the pub's most dangerous whisky. It might be his mysterious allure. Or- it could be that they really see one another. Evelyn is no stranger to darkness. Like Jack, who's struggling from PTSD and childhood trauma, Evelyn knows about tragedy. Though she masks her pain with a cool exterior and a lot of dry humor, she's also gone through adverse childhood experiences that hold her back in her adult life.
There's an electric attraction between these two characters, but they've got to claim and process the hurt of their younger selves before they can begin to evolve both as individuals, and in love. In a powerful and beautiful way, they are accompanied by their inner children of the past throughout the film. What they come to realize is that there's no moving forward- either alone or with one another, until they allow these younger parts of themselves the space to be present, and to heal.
.jpeg)
In each of us there is shadow and there is light. We all have secrets, traumas and difficult events that we've been through, and we each have the capacity to heal through love. Our film will oscillate between these themes through noir flashbacks and dimly lit rooms, to bright, sun-drenched greenery.
.jpeg)
Our film is set both in Sligo, Ireland and Scranton, Pennsylvania. We'll be traveling to Sligo (where the director's cousin and script consultant is from) to capture drone footage of rolling hills as well as close-ups of exteriors of buildings. The other 95% of the principal photography for the film will be captured in the director's hometown of Scranton, PA. Scranton's rough textures, beautiful architecture and staple, local-favorite locations will serve to create a hometown feel that grounds our story in authenticity.
.jpeg)
There are 37 characters in our story, ranging from an airplane steward with one line, to people we see in several scenes, to our main characters. Below are our two main protagonists. It can be said that the antagonists in our story are the troubled and angry inner wounds of them both.
Evelyn
Evelyn is emotionally charged and extroverted. She can be difficult when fired up, but typically masks with a cool exterior. She’s incredibly protective of the ones she loves- especially her grandmother Lisa, who raised her on their family's old dairy farm. Evelyn's Father died when she was six, and her Mother left Ireland shortly after, to seek the successful acting career of her dreams. Evelyn's energy is brazen and strong, but her unprocessed childhood trauma leaves her lacking in confidence. She doesn’t trust her photography or sketch artwork, so she keeps this piece of herself quiet while bartending for a living. If Evelyn is a leaf being tossed around in the wind.. it’s as if she finds her tree the night Jack walks in.
Jack
Jack is cerebral and introverted. He’s curious but cautious. His Mom and Dad split when Jack was five, for reasons unclear to Jack. Ever since, Jack’s Mom, Dolores, has struggled with substance abuse and depression. Having largely raised himself, Jack is independent and strong, but is hardened.. and skeptical of the world that he feels lost in. He found a home in the army - a place where he feels worthwhile and strong. But after all he’s seen, and after the loss of his good friend, Jack is left with post traumatic stress and depression. His inclination toward music is unsupported by his lifestyle, leaving his inner artist starved and out of balance. That first night Jack meets Evelyn.. it’s as if a light turns on in a room that’s been otherwise dark for some time.
.jpeg)
I see the world through a trauma-sensitive lens. Whether I’m making art, working on a character or teaching yoga- I’m moving through space and time with a commitment to sensitivity. Everyone has been through something. But there are those among us who struggle the most- with childhood trauma, grief from a recent loss, chronic illness, severe depression, anxiety, substance abuse disorders and so much more. Hold Her Hand tells a story about a man with PTSD, depression and a history of neglect, who meets a woman who’s dealt with immense loss in childhood, and who manages fear and anxiety around abandonment. Both characters suffer a loss of self worth, and they struggle to pinpoint their authentic identity. The weight of managing their unprocessed trauma is like carrying a boulder around on their shoulders day in and out.
These burdens are familiar to anyone managing trauma. Our society’s pressure to keep life moving quickly, while often neglecting our emotional processing, only makes that boulder heavier.
No one who struggles should be left alone, or be forced to set aside their pain. So often, neglecting our pain can lead to exiling our inner child of the past. In our story, each of the main character’s younger selves join them on their journey- reminding them that the processing of the past must come before they can open their hearts to each other.
.
Hold Her Hand - while it touches upon many important topics such as PTSD, childhood neglect, suicide and mental health- is ultimately a story about healing through love.
But why now?
There is an enormous amount of content to digest on all streaming platforms right now. There’s more television than ever and a new movie to watch every day. But how much of it can we identify with? How much of what we see is uplifting and real; hopeful and relatable?
Our world is currently in an upheaval of violence, corruption and chaos. Those of us who need help the most are being stripped of resources, aid, and dignity. I’ve been writing this screenplay for six years, and finally it feels imperative that the time to take action and bring it to life- is right now. Our story counters the present day culture that encourages violence, exhaustion and exclusion. We instead offer a narrative of hope, inclusion and love. Worth is our birthright. It is every human’s right to feel safe, to feel seen- and to feel loved. Hold Her Hand champions the notion that all humans deserve support, love and respect- especially in the face of hardship and trauma.
We're using this platform to raise a portion of our production costs, and we need your help! Our projected shoot dates are October 6th - October 29th, 2025. After we wrap production, we'll head into a post-production phase where we'll work on editing, creating and/or licensing music, submitting our film to festivals and working with a film aggregator to distribute it onto streaming platforms. No contribution is too small. It means the world that you consider helping us bring this meaningful and timely story to light.
-Jessica Cadden Osborne, Writer & Director
Hold Her Hand is fiscally sponsored by From the Heart Productions, a 501(c)3! That means any contribution you offer is fully tax deductible.
Follow the film's facebook and instagram,
And the Motion Arts website to continue contributing to this film after our Seed&Spark campaign has ended.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Equipment
Costs $6,500
We'll need a camera, sound equipment, lights, monitors, mount rigs, headsets, batteries and more!
Incidentals
Costs $4,500
This will cover craft services (FOOD!), car rentals and any needed permits for the duration of our shoot.
Location Rentals
Costs $2,500
We'll be shooting at over a dozen locations for this film including an airport, several restaurants and bars, a hospital, a hotel and a gym.
Insurance
Costs $2,500
Every professional film set needs proper insurance to protect both talent and crew while on set.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
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Jessica Cadden Osborne (WRITER, DIRECTOR, CASTING DIRECTOR) is a professional actress, dancer, producer, director and choreographer from Northeastern Pennsylvania. Jessica had a strong artistic upbringing through classical ballet before focusing on modern and jazz dance techniques at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, from where she graduated with a BFA in Jazz and Theatre Dance Performance. In NYC, Jessica received her acting training from Terry Schreiber Studios. An Actors Equity member since 2011, Jessica has performed in many regional theatres throughout the United States, and found a home at Radio City Music Hall from 2008-2015 as a Radio City Rockette. Ms. Osborne also spent five years as a cast member in the avant-garde, off-broadway show Fuerza Bruta. A SAG-AFTRA member since 2012, Jessica has enjoyed working on both short and feature films, in both leading and supporting roles- as seen on her IMDb here. JCO has co-produced several short films including a documentary about organ donation, and she has co-produced several NYC stage works including Punch Out Productions' run of Fool For Love at Bank Street Theatre, as well as A Shift: Personal Works and Political Outcries at the Brick Theatre in Manhattan. Jessica enjoys teaching as a Rostered Artist in the state of PA, educating youth and older adults in an array of dance styles, in addition to teaching well-being practices and self expression through movement. Making film with her husband is Jessica's favorite thing to do, and she's thrilled to have just founded their newest production company together, Motion Arts, LLC. Jess has always written on the side- an eclectic array of poetry, fiction, self reflection and blogs covering topics such as wellness and motherhood. She's been writing the screenplay Hold Her Hand since 2019- and is excited to finally share this important story on film. See more at her website here.
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Jake Wentlent (DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY, EDITOR, VFX SUPERVISOR) is a versatile artist with a passion for storytelling. He excels both in front of and behind the camera, creating engaging and thought-provoking stories.
As a carpenter, Jake specializes in energy-efficient remodels, creating sustainable and beautiful pieces. He is also a skilled filmmaker, having shot and edited several short films. Jake uses his creative eye and technical skills to create polished films, and he is experienced in editing and developing visual effects (VFX).
As an actor, Jake has tackled challenging roles such as Brick in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Bottom in A Midsummer Night's Dream, and Lee in True West. Through his performances, he explores the depths of human emotion, connecting with audiences in a meaningful way.
Aside from his work as an artist, Jake has taught an acting class at Penn State while he was a graduate student. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and passion for the craft with aspiring performers.
With a focus on excellence, Jake is constantly seeking opportunities to learn and grow. Whether he's working on a carpentry project, producing a film, or performing on stage, he creates impactful and meaningful work.
MK Cadden (ASSISTANT DIRECTOR) grew up in Dunmore, PA with her four brothers, mom & dad. She has always found peace & joy in being creative, and it has been a lifelong dream to have a career in film & television. MK started acting at a very young age in local theater & through high school. She starred in her first feature length film in college and a number of short films, as well as produced her own shorts. After college, she moved to Los Angeles and began working in Post Production on one of the largest visual effects shows on television. MK is so excited to be joining the crew of Hold Her Hand as assistant director & cannot wait to create this beautiful piece of art with the other amazing creatives involved!
See more on MK at her website here.
Kathleen Stuart (LINE PRODUCER) is a professional actor and singer based in New York City. Born and raised on the Hawaiian Island of Oʻahu, in the ahapuaʻa of Heʻeia, Kathleen was guided by local educator and theater director Ron Bright and nurtured by the island’s performing arts community from a young age. When Kathleen was a sophomore at Castle High School, her performance in the lead role of Nellie Forbush in South Pacific earned her a personal invitation from Founder Peter Coxhead to begin her professional training at Mountview Academy of Theater Arts in London, England. Following graduation with a BFA in Musical Theater, Kathleen joined Actor’s Equity Association within her first two years in New York, working in American regional theater, national tours, and collaborating with NYU’s MFA students developing work under the advisory of Michael John LaChiusa and William Finn. Her work in the arts then expanded with training in Moment Work from Moisés Kaufman and company members of Tectonic Theater Project.
A SAG-AFTRA member since 2011, Kathleen has worked on camera in Hawaii Five-0 directed by Peter Weller and in Aloha Heart for Hallmark. She has worked as both a casting assistant and a production assistant for national commercial campaigns for clients including Oscar Myer, Blue Buffalo, and Turner Broadcasting.
Kathleen also enjoys creatively developing her own art. Recently, she developed and headlined an original cabaret for the I’m a Bright Kid Foundation in Honolulu. Ms. Stuart also recreated Bette Midler’s 1985 standup Mud Will Be Flung Tonight, which she performed at Dixon Place in Manhattan.
Kathleen regularly performs live with the The Kathleen Stuart Trio, which formed in 2018 and has grown tremendously since its inception. The trio now performs jazz residencies in Manhattan venues including on the Plaza at Rockefeller Center.
Learn more about Kathleen here
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Luz Cabrales (CASTING ASSOCIATE)
Luz is a talented filmmaker and creative professional in the Scranton area. Luz is passionate about nurturing young talent and helping them develop their professional skills. Luz holds a Bachelor of Science in Media Arts and Animation from The Art Institute of California, and she also has a Master of Arts in Communication Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies from Marywood University. As the founder of Scranton Films, she has hands-on experience in managing and executing various film projects and is dedicated to the idea of "Bringing Film Back to Scranton." She has worked on several documentaries, short and feature films for her team and peers, including notable projects like "Shadows of the Past" (Producer, Director & Editor), "Scranton’s Championship Season" (Producer & Editor), "The Libby Show" (Editor), "Julie and the Dearly Departed Players" (Producer, Director & Editor), "PAlette: Exploring the Colors of Pennsylvania" (Series Co-Creator, Director & Editor), "Sing to Me" (Producer & Director ), "Behind Some Dark Cloud," (Production Coordinator ) and many more, showcasing her versatility and expertise in the independent film industry. Luz, is also the Co-founder of the Independent Film Creative Hub, a filmmaker’s hub/database where they connect creatives through virtual social media platforms, live streaming workshops, networking sessions, a free film streaming platform, Scranton Talks (Online filmmakers talk show), The Mystery Box Film Challenge, and NEPA Film Society networking events. All together encouraging filmmakers to collaborate on keeping the filmmaking scene alive while nurturing new talent and preparing them with new skills to take their career in film further than they thought they could. With her diverse skills, education, and commitment to nurturing talent, Luz is making a
significant impact in the independent film industry in Scranton and its surrounding areas, reflecting her creative vision, passion for her community, local talent, and dedication to promoting the arts.
For more information about her work and list of projects, visit www.scrantonfilms.com
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A troubled American soldier meets a fiery Irish bartender one fateful night in 2006, altering the trajectory of both their lives. There's a spark that neither can deny, but they both face the challenge of processing their pasts in order to show up vulnerably and courageously for one another.
Jack, who's on leave during his time serving in the War in Iraq, walks into a bar in Sligo, Ireland with a bachelor party full of lifelong friends. He sees Evelyn slinging drinks. She's fire on the inside but cool as a cucumber externally. Why is he so drawn to her? And she to him? It could be that she's clever enough to make his whole crew shoot the pub's most dangerous whisky. It might be his mysterious allure. Or- it could be that they really see one another. Evelyn is no stranger to darkness. Like Jack, who's struggling from PTSD and childhood trauma, Evelyn knows about tragedy. Though she masks her pain with a cool exterior and a lot of dry humor, she's also gone through adverse childhood experiences that hold her back in her adult life.
There's an electric attraction between these two characters, but they've got to claim and process the hurt of their younger selves before they can begin to evolve both as individuals, and in love. In a powerful and beautiful way, they are accompanied by their inner children of the past throughout the film. What they come to realize is that there's no moving forward- either alone or with one another, until they allow these younger parts of themselves the space to be present, and to heal.
In each of us there is shadow and there is light. We all have secrets, traumas and difficult events that we've been through, and we each have the capacity to heal through love. Our film will oscillate between these themes through noir flashbacks and dimly lit rooms, to bright, sun-drenched greenery.
Our film is set both in Sligo, Ireland and Scranton, Pennsylvania. We'll be traveling to Sligo (where the director's cousin and script consultant is from) to capture drone footage of rolling hills as well as close-ups of exteriors of buildings. The other 95% of the principal photography for the film will be captured in the director's hometown of Scranton, PA. Scranton's rough textures, beautiful architecture and staple, local-favorite locations will serve to create a hometown feel that grounds our story in authenticity.
There are 37 characters in our story, ranging from an airplane steward with one line, to people we see in several scenes, to our main characters. Below are our two main protagonists. It can be said that the antagonists in our story are the troubled and angry inner wounds of them both.
Evelyn
Evelyn is emotionally charged and extroverted. She can be difficult when fired up, but typically masks with a cool exterior. She’s incredibly protective of the ones she loves- especially her grandmother Lisa, who raised her on their family's old dairy farm. Evelyn's Father died when she was six, and her Mother left Ireland shortly after, to seek the successful acting career of her dreams. Evelyn's energy is brazen and strong, but her unprocessed childhood trauma leaves her lacking in confidence. She doesn’t trust her photography or sketch artwork, so she keeps this piece of herself quiet while bartending for a living. If Evelyn is a leaf being tossed around in the wind.. it’s as if she finds her tree the night Jack walks in.
Jack
Jack is cerebral and introverted. He’s curious but cautious. His Mom and Dad split when Jack was five, for reasons unclear to Jack. Ever since, Jack’s Mom, Dolores, has struggled with substance abuse and depression. Having largely raised himself, Jack is independent and strong, but is hardened.. and skeptical of the world that he feels lost in. He found a home in the army - a place where he feels worthwhile and strong. But after all he’s seen, and after the loss of his good friend, Jack is left with post traumatic stress and depression. His inclination toward music is unsupported by his lifestyle, leaving his inner artist starved and out of balance. That first night Jack meets Evelyn.. it’s as if a light turns on in a room that’s been otherwise dark for some time.
I see the world through a trauma-sensitive lens. Whether I’m making art, working on a character or teaching yoga- I’m moving through space and time with a commitment to sensitivity. Everyone has been through something. But there are those among us who struggle the most- with childhood trauma, grief from a recent loss, chronic illness, severe depression, anxiety, substance abuse disorders and so much more. Hold Her Hand tells a story about a man with PTSD, depression and a history of neglect, who meets a woman who’s dealt with immense loss in childhood, and who manages fear and anxiety around abandonment. Both characters suffer a loss of self worth, and they struggle to pinpoint their authentic identity. The weight of managing their unprocessed trauma is like carrying a boulder around on their shoulders day in and out.
These burdens are familiar to anyone managing trauma. Our society’s pressure to keep life moving quickly, while often neglecting our emotional processing, only makes that boulder heavier.
No one who struggles should be left alone, or be forced to set aside their pain. So often, neglecting our pain can lead to exiling our inner child of the past. In our story, each of the main character’s younger selves join them on their journey- reminding them that the processing of the past must come before they can open their hearts to each other.
.
Hold Her Hand - while it touches upon many important topics such as PTSD, childhood neglect, suicide and mental health- is ultimately a story about healing through love.
But why now?
There is an enormous amount of content to digest on all streaming platforms right now. There’s more television than ever and a new movie to watch every day. But how much of it can we identify with? How much of what we see is uplifting and real; hopeful and relatable?
Our world is currently in an upheaval of violence, corruption and chaos. Those of us who need help the most are being stripped of resources, aid, and dignity. I’ve been writing this screenplay for six years, and finally it feels imperative that the time to take action and bring it to life- is right now. Our story counters the present day culture that encourages violence, exhaustion and exclusion. We instead offer a narrative of hope, inclusion and love. Worth is our birthright. It is every human’s right to feel safe, to feel seen- and to feel loved. Hold Her Hand champions the notion that all humans deserve support, love and respect- especially in the face of hardship and trauma.
We're using this platform to raise a portion of our production costs, and we need your help! Our projected shoot dates are October 6th - October 29th, 2025. After we wrap production, we'll head into a post-production phase where we'll work on editing, creating and/or licensing music, submitting our film to festivals and working with a film aggregator to distribute it onto streaming platforms. No contribution is too small. It means the world that you consider helping us bring this meaningful and timely story to light.
-Jessica Cadden Osborne, Writer & Director
Hold Her Hand is fiscally sponsored by From the Heart Productions, a 501(c)3! That means any contribution you offer is fully tax deductible.
Follow the film's facebook and instagram,
And the Motion Arts website to continue contributing to this film after our Seed&Spark campaign has ended.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Equipment
Costs $6,500
We'll need a camera, sound equipment, lights, monitors, mount rigs, headsets, batteries and more!
Incidentals
Costs $4,500
This will cover craft services (FOOD!), car rentals and any needed permits for the duration of our shoot.
Location Rentals
Costs $2,500
We'll be shooting at over a dozen locations for this film including an airport, several restaurants and bars, a hospital, a hotel and a gym.
Insurance
Costs $2,500
Every professional film set needs proper insurance to protect both talent and crew while on set.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Jessica Cadden Osborne (WRITER, DIRECTOR, CASTING DIRECTOR) is a professional actress, dancer, producer, director and choreographer from Northeastern Pennsylvania. Jessica had a strong artistic upbringing through classical ballet before focusing on modern and jazz dance techniques at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, from where she graduated with a BFA in Jazz and Theatre Dance Performance. In NYC, Jessica received her acting training from Terry Schreiber Studios. An Actors Equity member since 2011, Jessica has performed in many regional theatres throughout the United States, and found a home at Radio City Music Hall from 2008-2015 as a Radio City Rockette. Ms. Osborne also spent five years as a cast member in the avant-garde, off-broadway show Fuerza Bruta. A SAG-AFTRA member since 2012, Jessica has enjoyed working on both short and feature films, in both leading and supporting roles- as seen on her IMDb here. JCO has co-produced several short films including a documentary about organ donation, and she has co-produced several NYC stage works including Punch Out Productions' run of Fool For Love at Bank Street Theatre, as well as A Shift: Personal Works and Political Outcries at the Brick Theatre in Manhattan. Jessica enjoys teaching as a Rostered Artist in the state of PA, educating youth and older adults in an array of dance styles, in addition to teaching well-being practices and self expression through movement. Making film with her husband is Jessica's favorite thing to do, and she's thrilled to have just founded their newest production company together, Motion Arts, LLC. Jess has always written on the side- an eclectic array of poetry, fiction, self reflection and blogs covering topics such as wellness and motherhood. She's been writing the screenplay Hold Her Hand since 2019- and is excited to finally share this important story on film. See more at her website here.
Jake Wentlent (DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY, EDITOR, VFX SUPERVISOR) is a versatile artist with a passion for storytelling. He excels both in front of and behind the camera, creating engaging and thought-provoking stories.
As a carpenter, Jake specializes in energy-efficient remodels, creating sustainable and beautiful pieces. He is also a skilled filmmaker, having shot and edited several short films. Jake uses his creative eye and technical skills to create polished films, and he is experienced in editing and developing visual effects (VFX).
As an actor, Jake has tackled challenging roles such as Brick in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Bottom in A Midsummer Night's Dream, and Lee in True West. Through his performances, he explores the depths of human emotion, connecting with audiences in a meaningful way.
Aside from his work as an artist, Jake has taught an acting class at Penn State while he was a graduate student. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and passion for the craft with aspiring performers.
With a focus on excellence, Jake is constantly seeking opportunities to learn and grow. Whether he's working on a carpentry project, producing a film, or performing on stage, he creates impactful and meaningful work.
MK Cadden (ASSISTANT DIRECTOR) grew up in Dunmore, PA with her four brothers, mom & dad. She has always found peace & joy in being creative, and it has been a lifelong dream to have a career in film & television. MK started acting at a very young age in local theater & through high school. She starred in her first feature length film in college and a number of short films, as well as produced her own shorts. After college, she moved to Los Angeles and began working in Post Production on one of the largest visual effects shows on television. MK is so excited to be joining the crew of Hold Her Hand as assistant director & cannot wait to create this beautiful piece of art with the other amazing creatives involved!
See more on MK at her website here.
Kathleen Stuart (LINE PRODUCER) is a professional actor and singer based in New York City. Born and raised on the Hawaiian Island of Oʻahu, in the ahapuaʻa of Heʻeia, Kathleen was guided by local educator and theater director Ron Bright and nurtured by the island’s performing arts community from a young age. When Kathleen was a sophomore at Castle High School, her performance in the lead role of Nellie Forbush in South Pacific earned her a personal invitation from Founder Peter Coxhead to begin her professional training at Mountview Academy of Theater Arts in London, England. Following graduation with a BFA in Musical Theater, Kathleen joined Actor’s Equity Association within her first two years in New York, working in American regional theater, national tours, and collaborating with NYU’s MFA students developing work under the advisory of Michael John LaChiusa and William Finn. Her work in the arts then expanded with training in Moment Work from Moisés Kaufman and company members of Tectonic Theater Project.
A SAG-AFTRA member since 2011, Kathleen has worked on camera in Hawaii Five-0 directed by Peter Weller and in Aloha Heart for Hallmark. She has worked as both a casting assistant and a production assistant for national commercial campaigns for clients including Oscar Myer, Blue Buffalo, and Turner Broadcasting.
Kathleen also enjoys creatively developing her own art. Recently, she developed and headlined an original cabaret for the I’m a Bright Kid Foundation in Honolulu. Ms. Stuart also recreated Bette Midler’s 1985 standup Mud Will Be Flung Tonight, which she performed at Dixon Place in Manhattan.
Kathleen regularly performs live with the The Kathleen Stuart Trio, which formed in 2018 and has grown tremendously since its inception. The trio now performs jazz residencies in Manhattan venues including on the Plaza at Rockefeller Center.
Learn more about Kathleen here
Luz Cabrales (CASTING ASSOCIATE)
Luz is a talented filmmaker and creative professional in the Scranton area. Luz is passionate about nurturing young talent and helping them develop their professional skills. Luz holds a Bachelor of Science in Media Arts and Animation from The Art Institute of California, and she also has a Master of Arts in Communication Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies from Marywood University. As the founder of Scranton Films, she has hands-on experience in managing and executing various film projects and is dedicated to the idea of "Bringing Film Back to Scranton." She has worked on several documentaries, short and feature films for her team and peers, including notable projects like "Shadows of the Past" (Producer, Director & Editor), "Scranton’s Championship Season" (Producer & Editor), "The Libby Show" (Editor), "Julie and the Dearly Departed Players" (Producer, Director & Editor), "PAlette: Exploring the Colors of Pennsylvania" (Series Co-Creator, Director & Editor), "Sing to Me" (Producer & Director ), "Behind Some Dark Cloud," (Production Coordinator ) and many more, showcasing her versatility and expertise in the independent film industry. Luz, is also the Co-founder of the Independent Film Creative Hub, a filmmaker’s hub/database where they connect creatives through virtual social media platforms, live streaming workshops, networking sessions, a free film streaming platform, Scranton Talks (Online filmmakers talk show), The Mystery Box Film Challenge, and NEPA Film Society networking events. All together encouraging filmmakers to collaborate on keeping the filmmaking scene alive while nurturing new talent and preparing them with new skills to take their career in film further than they thought they could. With her diverse skills, education, and commitment to nurturing talent, Luz is making a
significant impact in the independent film industry in Scranton and its surrounding areas, reflecting her creative vision, passion for her community, local talent, and dedication to promoting the arts.
For more information about her work and list of projects, visit www.scrantonfilms.com