During my fall break in October, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Burbank, California to see a taping of "The Big Bang Theory," the award-winning television show on CBS. Being that this was one of my favorite shows, I was very excited to see these Emmy-worthy actors live. However, this was my first time watching a live taping of a TV show, and I was interested in how things are organized at these studios. I thought that I would explain some of the notes that I took during this entertaining day.
VIP Passes:
If you are hoping to attend a live taping of popular shows at Warner Brothers Studios, I would strongly suggest that you get VIP passes. This will guarantee that you get into the studio and be able to watch. Without these exclusive passes, you will have to get the studio lot very early and wait for hours to get an opportunity to get into the sound studio where the shows are filmed. Most people, unfortunately, have to be turned away due to the popular demand for these shows.
Entertainment:
Besides for the obvious live entertainment provided by the incredible actors, there is always an emcee for the audience to keep them entertained during breaks. This includes hosting small contests where he tries to get audience participation. Some of these activities include dancing and "stupid human tricks." He will have color posters with the actor's electronic signatures and endless bags of delicious candy(which he exhausts by the end of the night) to hand out to the audience members who participate. Don't ever be afraid to participate. Trust me, this will be something that you will remember for the rest of your life and you may only get one chance! Take it!
Food and Drink:
Just like a typical play or musical, outside food and drink are not allowed. These tapings can last up to four hours long, due to the fact that they need to run some scenes multiple times and there is some time in between tapes. About two hours into the taping, the studio will give the audience(usually around 200 people) a snack, consisting of a cold slice of pizza and a water bottle. The emcee during the actor's breaks will run activities to give out candy to the crowd, especially those who participate.
Electronics and Security:
Security will be present at multiple locations throughout the studio. You will proceed through multiple metal detectors with security guards. When you get into the studio, if you have your phone, they will take it from you. This restriction includes all recording and capture devices (i.e. cameras). I would make the strong suggestion that you leave your phone at home, in a hotel or in the car. This will allow you to leave right away instead of having to wait in a long line to get your phone back from the security guards at the entrance of the studio. That avoided extra step will be an advantage to you considering the tapings end late.
Vacation:
If you are taking a vacation to have this experience, I would strongly suggest that you get to California a day early. The reason for this is the time change. I live in the east time zone and the 3 hour change can make a big difference considering the tapings can end as late as 10 PM California time. If you don't plan on getting there with enough time to adjust to the time, then I would suggest a few caffeinated beverages before the scheduled taping time.
Breaks:
Before you enter the sound stage, you will be given one last chance to use the restroom. I strongly suggest you go, even if you do not have to. You will be in the taping for a minimum of three hours and you really don't want to miss any of it. All that said, if you do end up needing to go to the restroom during the taping, try to go while your favorite actors aren't in the scene they are taping. They will tape each scene some times up to three or four times, so you should have some time. Don't expect to leave the sound studio during the snack break, as the staff is too busy handing out food to lead you to restrooms outside the sound studio.
I really hope you enjoyed reading about my experience in California and if you ever get an opportunity to go to Burbank to see a live taping of your favorite show...I strongly suggest you take it.
