The casts of the two NBC programs will present one-night-only live performances for eager audiences who can't get their fix in their own living rooms. While the events haven't been highly publicized, both performances have already sold out. All proceeds from the live performances will benefit the production crews of both shows.
"SNL" cast member Amy Poehler responded to the upcoming live presentations, stating "The Upright Citizens Brigade Theater is a second home to a lot of these performers and writers. We are doing this to raise spirits, raise awareness, and raise money for our hard working production crews who will be having a hard holiday season if this strike continues.”
"Saturday Night Live" will feature a collection of favorite sketches, hosted by Michael Cera, the young star of "Superbad." The musical guest will be Yo La Tengo. The entire current cast of "SNL" has been confirmed for the 11:30 PM performance on Nov. 17.
The live performance of "30 Rock," scheduled for Nov. 19 at 8 PM, will feature the complete cast of "30 Rock," including Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski and Alec Baldwin. The star-studded cast is scheduled to perform a live episode from the popular series.
Production of "30 Rock" and "Saturday Night Live" ground to a halt Nov. 4 as talks collapsed between the Writers Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. Key issues remain writers' residuals from DVD sales, internet broadcasts, cell phone and new media. A previous writers strike in 1988 lasted 22 weeks. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre is located in Manhattan at 307 West 26th Street. For more information on the Upright Citizens Brigade, visit www.ucbtheatre.com.
