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October 31, 2006
30 Rock @ The Museum of Television and Radio -- 10.30.6
Tracy and Tina
The Museum of Television & Radio hosted a panel with the creative forces behind 30 Rock as part of their ongoing Media as Entertainment discussion series.
NOTES
--During the Q&A session, it was revealed that a gaggle of real live NBC Pages had flocked to the event. You could tell which audience members were Pages by the existence of hope and promise in their eyes.
--What current TV programs does Tina Fey imbibe?: Project Runway and The Office.
--Despite writing the show with Alec Baldwin in mind, Tina confessed she didn't think they would get him. Casting directors auditioned nearly 60 actors for Alec's role. When Baldwin came to host SNL for the 12th time, Tina said to Lorne, "Let's just ask him." AND SO IT WAS.
--Something that is uniquely engaging about 30 Rock is the show's ability to crossover with the stars and execs of the NBC Universe in semi-realistic ways: Conan O'Brien had a featured role in an episode that was screened, Chris Parnell and the NBC Page Program have supporting spots, even former GE head Jack Welch got a shout out.
--They've used 8 directors so far for this season and apparently that is typical for a new show.
--Including Fey, the show has 10 writers--a mix of vets and hot-shot rookies. FUN FACT: Improvisation is encouraged with the dialogue.
--The network has NEVER given the 30 Rock writers a note in reference to Studio 60. In fact, the words "Studio" and "60" weren't even mentioned during the discussion or the Q&A.
--The MT&R has a keen eye for engaging television panels, however, engaging doesn't always equal longevity. Judd Apatow disciples might note that both Undeclared and Freaks and Geeks were cancelled almost immediately following panels at the MT&R in LA. It seems like 30 will rally through the season--the upcoming move to Thursdays shows the brass has faith.
--Tracy Morgan's on-screen entourage was SPOTTED in the crowd.
--UPCOMING: The museum is hosting Welcome to the Funhouse with Robert Smigel on November 9th. Enter the promo code "funhouse" when buying tix online to receive a $10 discount on the non-member price.
Writer Robert Carlock and Actress Jane Krakowski
Posted by The Apiary at October 31, 2006 2:54 PM
Comments
"Tracy Morgan's on-screen entourage was SPOTTED in the crowd."
Was Dot-Com there?
Posted by: Jack at November 1, 2006 1:44 AM
i'll never not be in love with tina fey
Posted by: keith h. at November 1, 2006 12:00 PM