Monday, December 24, 2012

Christmas Eve in California

Well, this is weird.  For the first time EVER -- it's Christmas Eve and I'm not heading home to Milwaukee to be with my family.  While I am a little sad and lonesome, I've been able to find some Hollywood Christmas cheer that has definitely lifted my spirits.

For starters, I was caught in the middle of a Christmas Gangnam Style Flashmob on the way home from the mall today.  That was odd, but also kind of cool at the same time.



Then, I passed by a house that appeared to be owned by Clark Griswold.  The decorations outside were truly OUT OF THIS WORLD!  I don't think I've ever seen Christmas decorations that were quite this extravagant   Come to find out, the man who owns the house has done work with Disney animatronics before....Go figure!



Lastly, and perhaps MOST exciting, the Hollywood Christmas Caroling Truck passed by my house tonight! I had NO idea what this was until it came strolling down the block, but as the video will show, it was a magical site for people of all ages to watch.  I've never witnessed such a joyful holiday celebration where people were crazy with excitement and so much Christmas cheer.  I might have to stick around next year to see this pass by again...



My thoughts tonight are with my family and friends in Wisconsin.  I miss everyone like crazy, and I promise I'll be heading home again soon.  Until then, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Sunday, December 23, 2012

Clay Aiken Concert

Tonight I went to see Clay Aiken in concert!  And it was AWESOME!  Back in 2001, Clay Aiken was runner up on American Idol.  In my opinion (and in the opinion of many people), he should have won.  He went on to have the highest-grossing album of the year.  Since then, he's lost a lot of fans and become a pun of a lot of jokes, but I still think his voice is incredible!

I've never been in the front row for a concert before, but there's always a first time for everything!  Clay and his crew put on an awe-inspiring concert that put everyone in the Christmas spirit.  I even managed to get a few great pictures on my cell phone!  Perhaps the most un-expected highlight of the evening was sitting next to Arsenio Hall, who was there to support his former competitor from "The Celebrity Apprentice".  Check out the pictures of my awesome night and be sure to listen to Clay's Christmas album to get in the holiday spirit!



Tuesday, December 04, 2012

DWTS - That's A Wrap!

It's hard to believe, but this season of Dancing with the Stars has already come to an end. Where HAS the time gone?! I've been lucky enough to receive some great exposure this season - working with some truly awesome 'All Stars' both in front of and behind the camera. Here's a few shout outs:


Gilles Marini

Gilles is one of the nicest guys I have ever met. He is humble, caring, and often times, extremely funny. I've enjoyed the time we spent at the dance studio getting to know each other during production. I learned a lot from him about how people 'in front of the camera' live their lives. I will carry the lessons he taught me onto my future production jobs.


Apolo Ohno

Apolo was another great guy I was honored to have met. It's not every day you have a chance to work closely with an Olympic gold medalist. (Much less the most decorated Winter Olympian of all time!) For a man who has won more medals than he can count, he is extremely down to earth and giving. (Lord knows if I won than many medals, it would go to my head!) I loved the fact that Apolo would constantly be pushing me to be the best I could be.

Dave Williams

Dave Williams is part of the Security Team for DWTS. He reminds me a lot of my dad because of his experience with the police, etc... We spent a lot of time together laughing on set about the funniest things. Throughout the season, we also had a special chance to witness history together - by watching the Space Shuttle Endeavour flyover Southern California. He's a great guy who's makes every day a little brighter!



Kathleen Smyth

I don't think I would have been able to do this cycle without Kathleen! We spent countless hours on set together making the best of the craziest situations. Even when things got stressful, we were able to push each other through and make magic happen. After the finale, we were the the two 'lucky ones' who had to stay and wrap the stage while everyone else went to the Wrap Party. Even though we missed out, we found a way to have just as much fun. It's always nice to create great new friendships in the most unexpected places while on the job. :)


There were countless other people that made this experience an enjoyable one. If I listed them all, you'd be reading for a while! This season was a crazy one, but I'm glad I had the opportunity to be a part of such a big show. It's a crazy feeling to be driving to work every morning while you hear everyone on the radio gossiping about the show YOU are working on. Plus, the chance to make new friendships is always a plus in my book! Now....onto the next adventure! Disney, here I come!


Monday, November 12, 2012

Just Another Day

Today at work, I was shot in the face will silly string.  The entire episode was recorded with a special slow-motion camera.  In case you are curious, it was done because we were testing the effects of silly string in slow motion on a person's face.  The video is below.  Enjoy!




Thursday, November 08, 2012

Happy Birthday to Me!

Tonight, in the midst of all the crazy things happening at work, I was able to take a night off to enjoy, relax, and celebrate my birthday!  I joined a few friends and colleagues of mine for a few rounds of bowling and it was a lovely time.  Check out some pictures of my friends who came out to celebrate with me!

Aaron is a good friend of mine.  We met during a summer film camp the year before I moved to LA.

Jermaine and I work at the Red Cross together and have also been able to share adventures in the entertainment industry with one another, as well.

Here's another friend who's name is Aaron.  This funny guy works with me on DWTS!

Wednesday, November 07, 2012

When it rains, it pours...

There's a saying that goes, "When it rains, it pours".  I feel like that phrase sums up this industry pretty well.

Over the past two weeks, I've been offered a chance to work on four different shows.  Sadly, I've had to decline all of them because I'm already working on a show.  Most of the gigs I have had to pass up have been jobs that would only last a week or so (new pilots that are filming, etc...).  While they would have been fun to work on and cool experiences for the resume, it is what it is.  But there's was one offer that came across the table that was a little tough to pass up.

Alas, I like to think that everything happens for a reason.  I will continue to remain committed to the show I'm on now.  I don't want to be one of "those guys" who jumps around from show to show and is never loyal.  From what I've heard, that's NOT the way to get ahead in this industry!

Here's hoping I keep getting those calls after my current gig ends!

Sunday, October 28, 2012

I'm going to Disney World!

This week, my parents, a ton of family and friends, and my roommate are all at Disney World.  I haven't been to the resort since 2005, and it's totally time to go back.

This December, I am FINALLY taking a vacation!  It's going to be a trip on a small budget, but words cannot describe how excited I am to go back and experience all the magic that makes Disney World feel like a second home.  I am also extremley anxious to meet up with some long lost friends that I haven't seen in over seven years!

Is it December yet?!?!  :)

Here's a quick blast from the past - a picture of me at Disney in 2005.


Monday, October 22, 2012

The World's Largest Potato!

Today, I pulled into the parking lot at work to find The World's Largest Potato!  Is that crazy or what?!

California NEVER ceases to amaze me!


Thursday, October 18, 2012

ANTM is Coming Back!

I have GREAT news today!  I just learned that America's Next Top Model has been renewed for a 20th Season!  This is a huge accomplishment for the hard working cast and crew that have been making magic on this show for years.  A big congrats to all my friends and colleagues who work the show.  I am looking forward to coming back for another great season early next year! :)




Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Happy Mid-Season!

It's hard to believe, but we have already reached the half way point of our season.  This show seems like a blur because it's going so fast!

Last night, the cast and crew had a chance to celebrate during Tom Bergeron's annual mid-season party.  It was a wonderful party held at a super hip and trendy restaurant in Hollywood.

Highlight of the Evening:  Getting a picture with 'Uncle Tom'.  It was a great night that will not soon be forgotten!  Here's hoping the second half of the season goes just as great as the first!


Thursday, October 04, 2012

2nd On-Air Credit

A few months ago, I was proud to show everyone my first official on-screen TV credit on "The Bachelorette".  Sadly, they mis-spelled my last name, but it was still pretty cool.

Now, I am thrilled to show off my SECOND official on-screen credit from my new show, "Dancing with the Stars".  Best of all -- they spelled my name right this time!  :)

Check it out!


Saturday, September 15, 2012

Dancing with the Stars: All Stars

Well, folks! It's official!  I am pleased to announce today that I am the newest member of the "Dancing with the Stars" family!  I'll be working with their production team this cycle on what is bound to be their biggest season yet!  Check out the teaser trailer for the upcoming season, and be sure to set your DVR!!

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

A New Car

About a week ago (practically 5 years to the date that I moved out to LA), my old mini van broke down.  The 'man van', as many called it, gave me five really great years out here.  I wasn't really planning on getting a new car JUST yet, but in LA, if you don't have a car, you are practically a second class citizen.

I am happy to announce today that I have found a new car!  It's a Saturn Vue, and so far, I love it!  I must give a special shout out to everyone who helped me through this unique experience which I hope I will not be going through again ANY time soon.  My parents are the best, and they helped support me so I could make this move :)  John Boswell is also a fantastic friend who's opinion on these things I value greatly.  It's nice to have support when you are making major life decisions!  Here's hoping this car lasts at least another 5 years!

Check it out :)


Saturday, September 01, 2012

Happy 5 Year Anniversary!

Hello, everybody!! Boy, it's been a while since I posted a blog! I'm sorry to all of you that check often hoping for a new update. Part of the reason I have not been blogging lately is because this has been one of my busiest years ever! I am thankful and very blessed to have had some great gigs come my way since the start of 2012. 

Today, I celebrate my 5 Year Anniversary in Los Angeles. It's hard to believe that it's already been 5 years since I moved away from Milwaukee to this crazy city we call Los Angeles. When I first moved out here, I knew nobody. I quickly found ways to get my 'foot in the door', and I remember meeting a friend who worked with one of the studios in town. He told me, "If you can make it past your first year, you are in good shape. If you can make it five years, you can be here for a lifetime". The phrase really stuck with me, and I often share it with my friends that move to LA. In my five years here, I have seen so many of my friends come and go. Many leave because LA is so different and they are not used to the big change. Others leave because they think it's too hard. And sometimes, people leave in search of other opportunities. 


That being said, one thing remains the same. I am still here and still moving strong. I wasn't sure if I would make it 5 years in this city. I wasn't sure of anything, really. I've had so many wonderful opportunities and experiences, and I have received an overwhelming amount of exposure in this industry. I am not a household name, nor am I making big paychecks, but I feel like I am well on my way. I love this industry. I have seen every side of this city, worked for a variety of television shows, appeared on numerous shows, met countless celebrities, produced and directed my own projects, traveled with work, and even started my own camp. I am thankful every day. I know that not everyone gets the type of opportunities that I have had. I know this could all be taken away in an instant. 


LA has taught me a lot. LA has taught me to appreciate small moments and love big moments like they may never happen again.  Have friends, but make sure they are friends.  Always be willing.  I am not like everyone else and I will never be like everyone else.  I am special and have a lot of talents to be thankful for.  People love my energy and find it irreplaceable.  I can do whatever I want to do.  I can make great decisions.  I am a good teacher.  I am a great friend. I have great friends.  I hate traffic. The list can go on and on! 


I don't have a lot of friends, but the ones I have are amazing. My friends back in Milwaukee that still stick by my side mean the world to me. They know who they are. I am also blessed to have some fantastic friends here in California, too. It's really nice to have people you can trust in an industry where trusting people is often difficult. As always, my family has always been there to support everything, and it, too, means the world to me. 


In a nutshell, hopefully you've had a chance to see what LA has been like for me over the past five years. It has been a wild ride, and I know that I am just getting started. I am thankful every day for the opportunities, and I cannot wait to see what's in store for the future. 


Inhale big, EXHALE BIG! I made it!!!


Happy 5 Year ANNIVERSARY!!!

Friday, August 31, 2012

Live Sitcom Taping Success!

Tonight, the fourth year of my Summer Entertainment Camp came to a close with the taping of two live TV sitcoms.  It was a wonderful event that everyone truly enjoyed.  This historic evening marked the first time scripted material was taped before a live studio audience in the state of Wisconsin by young adults.  Check out our posters for the two different shows:


These sitcom tapings were an opportunity for children from all backgrounds to come together, create a unique story, and share it with the community.  They went from script to screen in just two weeks time. The kids did all the work - creating the scripts, finding the props and costumes, building the sets, running the lights, sound, and cameras, and countless other tasks.  At the end of the evening, our children were confident that what we did this summer was 'rare' and 'cool'.  I couldn't agree more.  These are children with a sense of humor that shows an awareness of the world around them that is authentic.  Unlike a regrettable number of young men and women in their generation, these kids embrace and thrive on hard work.  Their eagerness to learn and deployment of learning means they are ready and most able to succeed.

The taping of "The Robert and Rosie Show" before a live studio audience!

Sarah Kick and Valerie Lighthart have a conversation on camera while Miranda Campagna records.

It was great to see our live studio audience enjoying the evening just as much as the kids on stage.  I think audience-goers found it special to see such a unique event happening in Milwaukee.  My camp (and these sitcoms) proved to the community that you don't need big budgets and famous movie stars to create a successful project that brings people together.  Everything you need can be found right in your own backyard.  I've watched these kids go from script to screen and inspire a hometown with their initiative and ability to lead.  This young generation is showing that they can rise to the challenge of tomorrow.  

One of our campers, Brooke Briesemeister, operates a camera for the sitcom.

Camper Kyle Johnston chooses between shots for the live sitcom.

Tonight was a great reminder that hard work always pays off.  It's hard to believe I've been offering this camp for FOUR years already.  A lot of people have asked what's next, and to be honest, I'm not really sure.  But in any case, here's hoping whatever comes next is JUST as awesome! :)




Friday, August 24, 2012

Walt Disney Imagineering

Today, I had the honor of speaking at Walt Disney Imagineering.  To say it was awesome would be an understatement :)

For those who may not know, Walt Disney Imagineering (also known as WDI) is the design and development arm of the Walt Disney Company, responsible for the creation and construction of Disney theme parks worldwide.  Founded by Walt Disney himself in 1952 to oversee the production of Disneyland in California, it was originally known as WED Enterprises - from the initials of Walter Elias Disney.  The term "Imagineering" was popularized to describe the blending of imagination and engineering.

Imagineering is responsible for designing and building Disney theme parks, resorts, cruise ships, and other entertainment venues at all levels of project development.  Imagineers often possess a broad range of skills and talents, and thus over 140 different job titles fall under the banner of Imagineering -- including illustrators, architects, engineers, lighting designers, show writers, graphic designers, and countless more.  Most Imagineers work from the HQ facility in Glendale, California, where I was today.

Days like today keep me going forward strong and with full speed!  Who could have imagined that I would be speaking to a group of Disney employees at just 23 years old?  Crazy!

Check out the picture below of the awesome event :)


Friday, August 10, 2012

Computer Crash!

I've been home for less than a week, and slowly but surely, I have been unpacking everything from my trip home to Milwaukee.

Today, I had an unexpected glitch that threw me off!  My computer crashed and burned, after faithfully serving me for almost six years.  The good news is that I'm a computer NERD, so I was able to salvage everything off of the computer -- absolutely no data was lost.  The bad news is that, sadly, I have to get a new computer :(

I guess life has it's fair share of ups and downs!  Here's hoping I find an up soon ;)

Thursday, August 09, 2012

Pixar In Concert

Last night, I attended a WONDERFUL concert at the Hollywood Bowl called "Pixar in Concert".  The concert was a two-hour tribute to all of the pixar films.  The scores were played by the LA Philharmonic Orchestra and members of the pixar team who actually worked on the original film!  It was great to hear the stories on how some of the most popular movie scores were created.


Tuesday, August 07, 2012

South Milwaukee Commercials


This summer, I was hired by the School District of South Milwaukee to create three commercials for the school district and city of South Milwaukee.  I was thrilled to have an opportunity to create videos for my hometown and alma mater.  I think the commercials turned out REALLY well, but I will let YOU be the judge!







A VERY special thanks to Crystal Schreiner, Sean Love, Abby Bakke, and Michael Callahan for their help on this awesome project.

Wednesday, July 04, 2012

Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July, everyone!

To celebrate the day, I went to the Hollywood Bowl!  One of my FAVORITE artists, Barry Manilow, was hosting a special "Americana" show! It was an absolutely wonderful night!  The house was packed with Americans from all walks of life and by the time the evening was over, we all felt a little closer together thanks to the music of Barry.

Check out a short video I caught below.  Sorry for it being so shaky.  I swear I know how to use a camera...I was just a little excited and trying not to be too big of an @$$ in the audience with my technology :-)

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Paley Center Visit

Before I head home for Year 4 of my Entertainment Camp, I decided to take a day to check out the Paley Center in Beverly Hills, CA.  The Paley Center is an institution dedicated to the discussion of cultural, creative, and social significance of television   Right now, they are hosting a special exhibit from Warner Brothers that celebrates the "Best Of" WB Television & Entertainment.

I am SO glad that I was able to experience this exhibit!  I had the unique opportunity to see props from some of my FAVORITE TV shows, like "The Big Bang Theory".  I was also able to see rare set pieces from shows like "The West Wing", "Friends", and "Seinfeld".  There was also a room dedicated to displaying costumes from some of the most memorable TV scenes of all time.  As an added treat, there were also animated film cells from Warner Brothers cartoons, like "Animaniacs", "The Jetsons", "The Flintstones", and "Tiny Toons".  It was SO COOL!  It was a  big trip down memory lane as I re-lived some of my favorite television shows that I used to watch as a child.

Check out some of the awesome pictures I took of these glorious exhibits!

The podium seen on "The West Wing"

A prop version of THE WASHINGTON POST seen on "The West Wing"

Props from "The Big Bang Theory" 

Costumes from "The Big Bang Theory"

Central Perk - Set from "Friends"

Monk's Diner - Set from "Seinfeld"

Yogi Bear Animations

One of my absolute favorite cartoons growing up as a kid.

Flintstones animated cells

Jetsons animated cells

Tweety Bird "fan mail"

How cool is this?!


Tuesday, June 05, 2012

Iris at the Kodak Theater


To celebrate the end of another great cycle of Top Model, I had the unique opportunity to visit the Kodak Theater to see the new Cirque Du Soleil show called “IRIS”.  

Set in the heart of Hollywood, the show is a true celebration of film and all things entertainment.  The action starts when you first walk into the theater.  You immediately become immersed into a world of classic cinema and vaudeville.  Once the show begins, the action only continues in a number of circus-style scenes.  Each one delivers a different little snippet of Hollywood history. 

The sets were incredible and the actors did a superb job.  The lack of story bothered me, but I guess that’s how a ‘normal’ circus would be, too.  Overall, good times were had!  I can’t complain one bit : )


Monday, May 21, 2012

First Official TV Credit!!

Tonight, I received my first official TV credit!!  I've worked on a number of shows in the past, but the positions worked were never credited on the air -- just online on sites like IMDB and such.  This evening, a new chapter in my "Hollywood Adventures" was written when my name appeared on screen during the final credits of an episode of "The Bachelorette".  Get used to seeing this name on your televisions, America ;)



Next Goal: Get them to spell my name right...

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Top Model - Cycle 19

Hey, guys!  I know it's been a little while since I updated my blog, but this is mainly because I recently started work back on America's Next Top Model!  It's hard to believe this is already my fifth season working with them.

As usual, there's not much I can say about the show and such, but I CAN share the following picture with you.  This season, the audience has a vote!  It should make for a great season!  So be sure to vote -- and stay tuned for my blog, as I'll be back writing as soon as there's something I can talk about again! :)


Wednesday, April 04, 2012

Camp 2012 Trailer

Greetings, everyone! I hope all is well. I just got back from Charlotte and things have been CRAZY busy. 

One of the big projects I've been working on is the camp trailer for our 2012 season. I really want to bring my camp back to Milwaukee for Year 4, but the only way it will be possible is with help from people like YOU! If you are reading this blog and know somebody or some business who might have an interest in sponsoring our camp, PLEASE reach out to me! I think our video speaks for itself -- we've had a deep history in Milwaukee and the show MUST go on!

Thanks for all the love and support! Fingers crossed, we'll be back in Milwaukee this summer for our biggest year yet!

 

Sunday, April 01, 2012

Charlotte Highlights


Over the past month, I have had the pleasure of working and living in Charlotte, North Carolina.  I've had a fantastic time being able to travel and work in an industry I love so much.

First, a special thank you to Kristi!  Kristi is my cousin Tabitha's best friend, and for the past month, she has been kind enough to host me in Charlotte.  I could not have done this trip without her, and I thank her dearly for being such an awesome person!

Second, a BIG thank you to all my new Charlotte friends.  I am going to miss you all terribly, but I hope to be back some day soon!  I can't remember the last time I've had such wonderful laughs.  I also enjoyed getting to learn a whole new southern language during my time down year.  Y'all are great!

I'd also like to thank the fine folks I worked with in 'TV Land' for helping to make my time working on this production so wonderful.  Duy, David, and Lauren -- you guys rock.

It's really nice to be back in Los Angeles.  Right now, it appears as if I will be hitting the ground running -- since I have a lot of exciting projects on the horizon!  More soon!

Until then, enjoy some quick pictures from my trip below.




Saturday, March 31, 2012

Atlanta Visit!

This weekend, I celebrated my last few days in the south by heading to Atlanta, Georgia! This was an exciting trip for numerous reasons.

For starters, I got to see Mallory -- who has been a friend of mine for the past 8 years. Mallory and I met during the filmmaking workshop I attended in Orlando, Florida. I have not seen her in person since. We have remained in contact all this time via Skype and e-mail, but it was nice to actually meet face to face again for the first time in years!!

 As if that wasn't exciting enough, I also had the chance to see some great places! I visited Olympic Park, the CNN Center, and the World of Coke -- all in one day! It was a great way to end my trip to the south, and I'm very glad I was able to make it happen! Check out some pictures in my album below!

 

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Greetings from Charlotte!

Greetings from Charlotte!

I’ve been here for a few days now, and things are going well. I am staying with Kristi, who is my cousin’s (Tabitha) best friend. She was kind enough to let me fill her empty room for a month and borrow one of her cars so I can get around town!

During my short time here so far, I have made a few strong observations about this area. Below are some of them.

1. The Food Out Here Rocks – Southern food is the BEST. Not only do they have Cracker Barrels here (which is a lovely change of scenery from California), but they have numerous other fantastic places to grab a bite to eat at. Fried chicken has never tasted as good as it does here in the south.

2. Welcome to the ‘Bible Belt’ – I’ve been told by numerous locals that this is the ‘Bible Belt’. As if it wasn’t apparent by the “Billy Graham Freeway” I traveled on the first night I got into town, it’s clear when you see how much this city changes on Sunday. VERY different from California. This makes shopping during Sundays a unique challenge. Ah well!

3. Charlotte Weather is Unpredictable – This place has the wackiest weather! The first day I was here, it was a pleasant 78 degrees. The next day, it was barely 40. Tonight, it is a wild thunderstorm and there are numerous Tornado Watches in effect right now. Crazy. Trying to pick out what to wear is difficult when the weather changes are so extreme on a daily basis.

For now, that’s about all the excitement out here. Things keep moving along, and as we keep moving forward, the job gets more and more awesome.

Stay tuned for more updates soon!

Saturday, February 18, 2012

I'm going to North Carolina!

Ladies and Gentleman!

I am thrilled to announce that I have just booked a great new gig!

While I cannot go into details, I CAN tell you that the show has been on the air for quite a while -- and it is a very well known series. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work on it!

The series is shooting in North Carolina. It will be a nice change of scenery from the LA lifestyle. I am lucky enough to have some friends and family in this area, so I am stoked and grateful that they will be helping me out during my visit.

I feel like a pretty lucky guy right now :) I'm bursting with excitement because I cannot wait to get started!

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Ironic?

Call me crazy, but do you think this picture seems a bit ironic?

Wednesday, February 08, 2012

Milwaukee Magazine

Today I was blessed with some exciting news. A new article has surfaced about my Summer Entertainment Camp!

It was written by Mr. Mack Bates of Milwaukee Magazine's "Movie Goers". He did a spectacular job writing the article, and I am thankful for the support he has shown for our camp.

If you'd like to see the article, please CLICK HERE. Be sure to share it with family and friends!

Also, for those of you who have asked, I would LOVE to bring the camp back this coming summer. However, the only way we can do so is with support and sponsors. We are currently on a search to find businesses or arts-supporting angels who might be interested in sponsoring our camp this summer. If you know of any business / person that might qualify, please reach out and let me know!

Enjoy the article!

Thursday, February 02, 2012

Welcome, Ms. Brown!

Today, I went down to The Grove to meet up with a friend of mine. While we were there, they had a ceremony hosted by M&Ms to unveil their new character -- Ms. Brown.

It was different, to say the least! But certainly fun :) And I got free M&M's!

Check out some pics and video from the event!






Wednesday, February 01, 2012

Visit to Nick Studios!

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of spending the day at Nickelodeon Studios. It might be a little known fact that Nickelodeon owns numerous properties around LA. My trip was to their popular "Nick on Sunset" location. What a great experience it was!

For starters, I met some fantastic people! From the security staff, to the executive producers, and everyone in between -- it was so neat to meet and work with the people who had a giant influence on the shows that shaped my childhood.

Perhaps the biggest surprise was how cool the building was! If only those walls could talk! So much history resides at this place. Nick on Sunset originally opened on December 26, 1938 as the West Coast location of the Earl Carroll Theatre. The supper club-theatre offered shows on a massive stage containing a 60-foot wide double revolving turntable, staircase and swings that could be lowered from the ceiling.

(This is what the theater looked like back in the day!)

After Carroll and Wallace died in the crash of United Airlines Flight 624 in 1948, the theater was sold. In 1953, it became the Moulin Rouge nightclub, then later the Hullabaloo Rock and Roll club, and then the Aquarius Theatre in the late 1960s. The Pick-Vanoff Company, who owned Sunset Gower Studios, purchased the property in 1983, converting it into a television theater where Star Search, the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, Alf's short-lived talk show, and The Chevy Chase Show were once broadcast.

In the mid-1990s, Nickelodeon decided to move production of some live-action series' to the West Coast from Nickelodeon Studios in Orlando, Florida at Universal Studios. Nickelodeon obtained a lease for the 6230 Sunset Blvd facility, acquiring the soundstage and rebranding it "Nickelodeon On Sunset" by 1997. It has been the home for shows like All That, The Amanda Show, The Nick Cannon Show, Drake and Josh, iCarly, and Victorious.



I'm not sure why, but I was not expecting to see so much Hollywood history in a Nickelodeon soundstage. Nickelodeon has done a fantastic job preserving the rich and deep history they now own.

Special thanks to everyone at Nickelodeon for a great day with some great people!