TBU Productions

TBU was initially founded in 2007 by Prince Sprauve as an after-school program called Revolution Studios in Schenectady, NY. The program offers disadvantaged students opportunities to freely participate in the production of music, music videos, short films and full length feature films. By providing this outlet for creative expression, students are inspired to strive for greater academic performance, embrace responsible behaviors and promote awareness of social issues relevant to their community.

The first large scale project was a film entitled “Fast Life,” which made its public debut on April 25, 2013. The plot of “Fast Life” depicts the circumstances that attract teens to a life of violent crime, written from the perspective of the students involved. This project received local media coverage and inspired discussion about the issue of poverty among Schenectady residents. A number of local organizations contributed to its completion, including Proctors Theatre, Glen Sanders, Ellis Hospital, Schenectady Police Department, 96.3 Jamz, New Bethel Community Church, Daily’s Funeral Home, Price Chopper, Shop Rite, Sandy’s Cafe, Cuts & Blends, Vale Cemetery, Sodexo Food Company, Schenectady City School District, Schenectady Youth Boxing, Bob Carney(Schenectady District Attorney), Holiday Inn, Advantage Transit Group, Metroland Magazine, Prudential Manor Homes and Albany Broadcasting. 130 students, 15 Schenectady School District employees, and 25 community volunteers were involved in its production. As a result, the response to “Fast Life” was overwhelmingly positive; over 1,500 people attended the film's premier.

Shortly after the release of "Fast Life," Sprauve teamed up with long time friend and colleague, Ryan Sanborn, to expand his vision. Together, they restructured the program as a 501c3 non-profit organization. In 2016, TBU will be producing "Cradle"- a film that addresses the alarming teen pregnancy rates in Schenectady. It will be accompanied by an original soundtrack, a documentary featuring local teen parents, and several commercials and music videos. Additionally, forums pertaining to sexual health matters and professional development will also be facilitated by TBU and its partners.


Partnerships include:


Schenectady Foundation

Carlilian Foundation

Community Fathers

Proctors Theater

Ellis Hospital

Planned Parenthood

Schenectady Youth Boxing

New Bethel Community Church

Schenectady Coalition - Umatter (consists of over 80 organizations that have come together to address some of the major issues in Schenectady)