BU's Guiltiest Pleasure

BAY STATE IS FINALLY LEGAL!

2011-02-13T09:46:00.000-08:00

Hey, hey, scandal-lovin’ people! This is Liz Breen, Bay State writer and actress, comin’ atcha to kick off the 21^st season celebration!

So what is there to celebrate, anyways? Um… a lot! As a writer, I am confidant in saying that this season of Bay State is like nothing we have ever done. We are trying new things plot-wise and production wise. There are flashbacks, crazy car crashes, a fat pregnant belly and lots and lots of CASH MONEY!

But seriously, we are upping the ante big time. Each year, the Bay State cast and crew sees changes, new additions, shifting in roles and jobs on set, and each year, we all try to build on what our predecessors have done, take the characters and their dilemmas and make them even more badass. How do we do this? Well, we start with a killer script, of course.

Now, of course, to pull off a swell script, we need a great team of actors, producers, directors blahblahblah, but I’m a writer, so I’m going to obviously place the script above all that (because this is my guest blog entry, damnit!) Plus, writing the script is a pretty laborious process. Those other production peeps have it easy. It’s the pre-production folks that have it hard.

How do we come up with the crazy plotlines and character arcs for Bay State? Well, honestly, it involves a lot of screaming. Yes. The writers and producers get in a room together, sit around a table and yell. Sometimes in excitement, but oftentimes in anger, frustration, in order to dismiss a stupid idea (there is such a thing!). Then, some angelic person makes a joke. They toss out an absolutely outrageous idea to make everyone laugh and lighten the mood, and then we all think about it for a second and think, “Hey. That could actually work.” So we tweak it, take some elements out, add some in their place. And it becomes edgy and cool and surprising and everything that you have come to expect from Bay State!

And then we go back to screaming! But at the end of the meeting, I feel safe in saying we all have left feeling like we all worked together to bring Bay State a small step forward. Lost may have sucked after the first few seasons, but we are still going strong. Furthermore, that is why we should win the Telly again this year. Oh, wait! This isn’t a campaign post (or is it?)

So I hope this has been an illuminating experience for all you unfortunate non-creative types who have never known the joys and agonies of writing a script (and I didn’t even touch on the revision process! Imagine that!)

But I can’t just leave you with that. You want more. I just know it. So you know what I’m going to do for you? I’m going to give you some teasers, a little sneak peak at our season, just to prove my point and to make you salivate!

CHARACTERS TO WATCH THIS SEASON:

1) Whitney/Aaron/Zack! Okay, so I play Whitney, but I swear, those three got some crazy, messed up shiz to deal with! Whitney is pregnant with Zack’s baby, but is getting awfully close to her doctor, Aaron. How will this love triangle effect Whitney’s decisions concerning her future and the future of the child? Guess you’ll have to watch…

2) Aaron/Grace/Max Aaron and Grace are brother and sister bonded by a very unfortunate past. But where does Max fit in? Could he possibly be connected to this past? And what will happen when you mix a studious doctor, a diligent reporter and a murderer? Again… I don’t know. (Except I do.)

3) The “Poker Gang.” Proof that appearances are deceiving, especially as it pertains to Beacon Hill College’s local coffee shop. The former frat boys have turned to underground poker with the help of coffee shop owner, Hunter. And things are going great. Money is flowing in. Could things stay this smooth forever? Psh. No.

So... that's all, folks! That's my guest blog entry. I hope you were as amused by myself as I am. No, but really. I'll end this entry with a shout-out to Jenn Carroll and Anthony Cifone, who are to thank for the epic promo pictures (which I can't wait to make my profile picture on Facebook!) As always, keep your eyes on Channel 10 and http://butv10.com/bay-state for all the latest episodes (which I will again say are particularly awesome this semester!)

Summer Lovin'

2010-07-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

SPOILER ALERT: the upcoming season of Bay State is going to make you laugh, cry, and probably become a gambling addict.

A lot of you have been asking about when the new episodes are going to be up. SOON! I swear. Liz and I are currently doing some postproduction magic, and we will be putting each one up the second we finish them - on the brand new Bay State Vimeo account, which means we won't have to wait until they are put up on butv10.com. Instant satisfaction. Except, you have to wait for it. Until then, check out some of these outtakes from last year's photoshoot!

Sexy sexy, Liz Breen. Danger: pregnancy curves ahead. Amirite?

Here's some other exciting news to hold you over until the new episodes are online:

* Episode 121 is nearing completion, and the readthrough will be during the first week of classes! I'm almost certain that it will be on Thursday, September 2nd. Mark your calendars.

* Auditions are going to be ridiculously early in the semester, and we need people to help hand out flyers for them at Splash, which is going to be held on Monday, August 30th at 11.

* Speaking of new episodes and new characters, here is an actual spoiler alert: descriptions of our FOUR new characters for the upcoming season!

Nora:
Nora is the tenacious student manager of BHC's tutoring program. But does she have the students' best interests at heart, or does she have her own agenda?

Lawrence:
Lawrence is the hot boss of BHC's beloved coffee shop, and he has as much luck with the ladies as he does at the poker table. But after the coffee shop is dealt a bad hand (...by the economy), how far will Lawrence go to stay on the grind?
Brandon
Brandon, a recovering gambling addict, makes an instant connection with Alexis, but how will she react when he refuses to be more than friends? After all, he's still recovering from his addiction to a certain frat boy.

Aaron
Aaron, a hardworking med student and intern at BHC's health clinic, takes a special interest in Whitney's condition because, well, that's his job. He also shares a name with a young pop sensation, but there's no relation. Really. There isn't (or is there?).
There's not.

i miss y'all
not just these two...everyone.

One last thing... The previously unreleased FINAL version of Episode 117, "Keep It Together."

Episode 117: Keep It Together from Bay State on Vimeo.

Now, you may think you've seen this episode... but you're wrong. The version on butv10.com/BayState is the rough cut, but here is the FINAL version of the midseason finale of season 20. It only took about six months, but here is the final version of "Keep It Together," which is awesome.

Realizing I Went A Little Crazy With The Red Text Color,
Anthony
Head Writer/Other Jobs

Putting the fun in funeral.

2010-02-04T19:45:00.000-08:00

Hello Bay State Enthusiasts!

My most solemn apologies for having let this blog rot from neglect for these past few weeks. But fear not, those days are over! I'm taking over keeping this blog for Jenn, who has been having a lovely time in LA (and for those interested, check out the blog being kept by some of our Bay State-rs currently in Hollywoodland: LA State.) For those of us having a wonderful time in chilly Boston, we have some great updates to share with the world.

We've had three shoots at this point and they've all gone wonderfully, but in the interest of keeping current, let's take a trip to Levine Chapels for Sebastian's memorial service. Episode 118 brings us to the aftermath of the events at the harbor. Sebastian has been missing for weeks and has been pronounced dead. So the President of Beacon Hill College has decided that a memorial service is in order.

Firstly, I can't do justice to how gracious the owners of this beautiful funeral home in Brookline are. They let us film for free and even let us borrow a coffin! Unfortunately we were unable to document the coffin purchasing process so you're going to have to use your imagination: a dozen coffins, a tiny basement. We picked the light dome-top. It's what Sebastian would have wanted. Soon we all began to gather and get ready for the shoot. This was our space:

All the actors were incredibly gracious and possibly too enthusiastic for a memorial service, but we appreciated the sentiment anyway. Especially Laura, who brought snacks:

Of course our special guest of the night was Dean Elmore, reprising his role as the sneaky President Bennett. Bennett's words, they were unconventional for a memorial service, were they not? Dean Elmore was as always a passionate addition to our cast and we look forward to seeing what nefarious plan he may or may not be up to!

We were truly blessed with a great set for our filming. It was a fairly lighthearted atmosphere, but there were moments that were slightly more solemn:

In the end, our filming was quite efficient, we even got out in time for those of us who are so inclined to catch the season premiere of Lost! We have a lot of Lost fans in our cast and crew (and some of us who just love to hate it, LIZ).

Finally, the OBLIGATORY TAYLOR BLOG PICTURE:

Good night, ya'll. See you all tomorrow for the episode 119 read-through!

-- Alex Amadeo
Head Writer

Thank yous.

2009-12-18T13:49:00.001-08:00

As promised, audience shot! Picture's worth a thousand speeches.

So...the Gala was a raging success. Thank you to everyone who came, everyone who dressed up, and everyone who was part of Episodes 115-117, they are truly some magnificent episodes.

Lauren introduced the Associate Producers, who led the evening.

Thank yous and gifts were given to everyone (sadly) leaving the show: Madelyn, Haley, me, and Laur.

Laur and I love the Castle...so fitting to end our BS careers here.

We've said for years that this is Bay State's golden age, and I hope it continues this way for years to come. We're submitting Episodes 114 and 117 to the College Emmys and the Tellys, so...cross your fingers for Bay State! The newest episodes are online already at butv10.com/baystate, and hopefully 117 will be up soon.

As the semester comes to a close, I'd like to reiterate how thankful I am to be a part of this show.

Reflecting on the past three and half years, it's been a quite the journey. If I can give advice to any aspiring PA, I would say: do everything that you can. Having been part of the writing, production, and editing teams, I've learned so much from this soap opera. It won't be easy, but if you can get through writing/editing auditions, both positions are so fun and rewarding. And, as I've said 100 times, being Director of Bay State was the most fulfilling and wonderful and exhausting job I have ever had.

So, it looks like this is my last blog post--at least until Amadeo starts requesting Alumni Guest Blogs. Hint. I've been thinking a lot about firsts and lasts, lately. The first Bay State shoot that Lauren and I ever went to--way back in 2006--was Mason's room, the ones with Emily and the famous line, "With all the pot smoking, I'm infertile!" How different in tone than our last shoot, and how much more difficult a production, with twelve scenes and six sets?

Reppin' the Bay State gear in the mid-Atlantic.

And then, at the viewing party last night, I remembered the first scene I ever edited: one of the frat basement scenes with Brock and James, the ol' "I always thought bonds of brotherhood sounded hot" scene. Last week, I edited my final scene--the montage at the end of Episode 117. I still have Nick Lattanzi's "Wired Cold" stuck in my head.

As different as some firsts and lasts have been, it's funny how things can be so cyclical. The first scenes I ever wrote were for the frat storyline in 108, specifically the "You can keep your job, but I'm going to need to take that baby" scene. I believe the treatment said, "Nick and Davis enter the newsroom, and let Ben know that the frat is taking over," but once I had the idea that Nick might take Lily...I had to write it, and for some reason, the rest of the writing staff went with it. So, advice to our latest writing staff: don't be afraid to take risks in your scenes. The worst that can happen is that the Head Writer will cut the lines out, and there's no shame in that.

The Archives!

The last scene I ever wrote was the epic 114 scene in the Archives. How fitting, as the serial killer storyline was born in the moment that the fraternity took baby Lily from the newsroom in episode 108. I toiled over it for days and days...forcing Lauren to read every new draft, and help me get it down to nine pages. I'm so proud of how it turned out--the ridiculous things the writing staff asks the production team to do seems to be upped every year...but only because we know you can handle it!

Directing in 2007

But back to cyclical stories...the first scene I ever directed--during the trials--was the bachelor party scene in Mercedes' penthouse. I remember having six set-ups, because the scene had so many actors, so many extras, and hit all three of our cardinal themes: sex, drugs, and murder. Well, a kiss, a drink, and a slap...but still. A year later, the last scene I directed on a Tuesday was the album release party scene at Mercedes' penthouse. That one, too, had the kiss...the drink...and a near-death experience for our favorite burgeoning popstar, care of the serial killer.

Directing the costume party in the penthouse.

There were so many firsts that year--the first adult guest star in years, thanks to Dean Zamoljski, first lesbian kiss ever shown on camera, first full-Tuesday location shoot at the BU Castle. What a journey. I never would have thought we could redesign the intro, that I could take this year's promo shots, or that we could have nearly thirty people come to Sunset Cantina after a shoot.

Lauren and I working on the new intro--finally got the soap turns!

A year ago, I thought that I would never love any job as much as I loved directing, but being Head Writer has been SO much fun. I've loved every treatment meeting, every set of edits, and every read-through. Being able to take pictures every week and share them on this blog has been so satisfying--I love showing Bay State off to everyone I know. If I could announce to the world how proud I am of the cast and crew, I would shout from the rooftops until my vocal cords deteriorated.

Thank you all, for everything.
I know that after the semester abroad ends, I'll be graduating, but...
a piece of paper doesn't mean I can't come check up on you :)

love,
Jenn

As if the party were catered.

2009-12-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

Hey Bay Staters!
Just wanted to get in a quick picture post of the semester's last shoot, since it was so full of awesome. Twelve scenes. Six sets. Who does that? Oh, right...the writers...with their ridiculous treatments...but we got it all done! On time!

First, we convinced two of the world's biggest Bay State fans, Dante and Nick, to be police officers.
They were so tough. It's gotta be the sunglasses.
Then, actors Alex and Valentina stepped it up for some seriously heart-breaking scenes.

Our PA's worked so hard all semester that I can't fault them for sitting down between takes...

...especially since Laur and I had the couch.
Actor James came to set and actually boomed for several scenes, because he's awesome.
And we wrapped up the day with a terrifyingly dramatic scene between Hudson, Claire, and Ethan. What a good way to end it--AND we broke down in 4minutes. Safely!

And, as we were having our final meeting, and Lauren and I were giving our last-day speeches to the crew, Madelyn showed up with cookies. Best of all ways to go out? I think so.

And then we all went to Sunset, making sure to pass by a certain poster in front of the GSU:
Because, OH YEAH, the 20th Season Mid-Season Gala is TONIGHT. At 6! At the Castle! And it's catered!

Can't wait to see you all there!
Because they are NOT arresting me on my Gala day,
-Jenn

Guest Blog: Alex, Head Writer!

2009-12-07T18:20:00.000-08:00

Huzzah, two posts in one day?!

Our latest Guest Blog comes from someone you'll be hearing a lot from pretty soon...new Head Writer Alex! This is her third year on Bay State. She stood out as one of the best camera people as a freshman, and became 2nd AD during her sophomore year. By the end of sophomore year, she survived the toughest writers' trials I've ever seen, and--a semester later--she's training to be Head Writer.

My phone is ringing, but I'm not picking it up.

This could be for one of two reasons: it's on silent, or I recognize the number and I'm ignoring the call because it's my loan shark.

Wait. What?

Alex, sophomore year, adding her name to a long list of successful baristas!

No, I seem to be confusing Bay State with real life again. This happens a lot, especially since I've become a writer. The problem is that the world that the students of Beacon Hill College inhabit is infinitely more interesting than the real world. And having responsibility for this world is infinitely more interesting than having responsibility for my real life.

Alex and Erin, sophomore year.

There are ups and downs to this responsibility. Somehow it was decided that we would film two scenes from the next script for last Tuesday, a day which we have scheduled already seven scenes. This is where the Bay State work ethic comes into focus. A year ago four scenes was the norm, and now not an eye is batted at the prospect of nine scenes in five hours. Well... maybe a few eyes. Either way, the decision to film two scenes from a script that was submitted to me the previous day had me nervous. Between editing the scenes and discovering my best friend is a serial killer, I had a lot to deal with last last week.

Alex, rockin' out on camera, junior year.

Um... well, that last part may not be true. He wasn't a serial killer, he was a drug dealer. No? Aspiring major-league baseball player? Damnit, I'm never going to get this right.

Best Picture Ever.

Despite the constant blurring of the line between reality and fantasy, we've all come a long way. I joined Bay State my freshman year at the request of my roommates despite not being a Television major, or even a student in the College of Communication. But this community embraced me and I made a strange journey through different aspects of production to end up where I am today. Good timing, as this Spring marks my last semester in this crazy group. It's been calm, it's been insane, I've spent hours on the phone wrangling actors and have lost more than a few hairs on my head from those same actors testing my nerves on set. But, in the end, would I want it any other way? Tomorrow is the last shoot of the two people who got me into this mess, and I owe them so much, because without them I would not know the greatest group of people around. I owe them much, and I and everyone else will miss them so much as they continue their BU journey to Los Angeles. (I know what you're thinking: who replaced Amadeo with someone so... sentimental? Deal with it.)

Writer Alex celebrating victory at the read-through.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some meth to shoot up before I beat up my roommate.

Yeah. That one's right.

Alex, getting the TCB sophomore year for getting all the actors to the first shoot of the semester.

Thanks for blogging, Alex!
Can't wait to read your posts next semester :)
-Jenn

Picture Post of the 12/1 Shoot!

2009-12-03T17:30:00.000-08:00

Hola, Bay Staters!

Apologies on the delay in picture post--blogger wouldn't let me upload for a while! But, bugs be gone, it's working again!

So, second to last Tuesday of the year, and we had a crazy day.

Anthony and Megan welcome you into a day of doom.

We started out with a quick montage shot in the hospital.

Jon gets his Dr. HP uniform on, and Kelsey and Gus are amused.

During the set change, I snapped a picture of Haley and Maddie--they're usually too busy working to mug for the camera :)

Whereas, Associate Producer Chris always knows where the camera is at...even acting this week! Our favorite anonymous frat boy.

"Oh, no!"

1st AD Taylor checks PA Ryan's shot, while AP (reverse of PA?) Erin watches the scene.

Two of our favorite BS veterans: Amanda ("Bailey") and Melody ("Camryn"), continuing to be awesome.

And, one of our fav new actresses, Torre ("Grace"), finally getting out of the Newsroom.

After tearing down Camryn's Apartment, we set up our next--and final--set of the day: the President's Office.

Dean Elmore, once again, blew us away as the potentially evil President Bennett.

Another Bay State vet, Madelyn, in a serious showdown with President Bennett.

Due to the crazy way we shot the scene, Greg was the sole crew member on camera. Solid work!

And then, when we needed a second camera, Maddie jumped on, 'cuz she's a pro.

And then, we were done! Sadly, it was Madelyn's last shoot ever, but we gave her applause!

And...we gave her the TCB. Good luck abroad and beyond, Madelyn!

Unfortunately, I don't have any pics from the location shoots (of which there have been FOUR in the past week), but there will be a LOT of pictures taken tomorrow.

And then let the editing binge begin! (Please notice that "binge" is just "begin" rearranged)
The Gala is this Friday, and we will be premiering Episodes 115, 116, and 117 at none other than BU's CASTLE! See you all there!

And afterward, we can go to my roof...I mean, Liz and Taylor's roof,
-Jenn

Guest Blog!

2009-11-26T18:50:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, readers! I know every year I think to myself how thankful I am to be part of such a wonderful show manned (and womanned) by such a hard-working cast and crew. Our latest guest blog is our first from an actor on the show: James, who plays Sebastian. He's one of our longest-running cast members ever, having joined the show by chance when his roommate freshman year pulled him onto set as an extra. A few well-delivered lines later, his frat boy character had a name and a permanent role on the show. James is a pleasure to work with, and often stops by the set on Tuesdays when he isn't shooting to see what goes on outside the fraternity at BHC.

James on set, freshman year, the crack den.

Picture a typical night in Allston. College kids are drunkenly pitching across the deck of the street as if auditioning for a sequel to The Perfect Storm. I'm sidling into a back alley with the intention of desecrating another brick-laden wall, but before I can so much as attempt to relieve myself, a hoodie approaches.

Despite his tenous grasp on mechanical motion, I'm slightly alarmed. I ponder the preponderence of knifings in the area, but the only thing set upon me as this stranger closes the distance is a hissed question of desperation: "hey man, got any bud?"

Unfortunately for Alexis, Sebastian is all out...for now.

I've had this happen to me before. People assume that Sebastien, the friendly neighborhood drug dealer, was simply typecast. He's obviously in the know: I mean, look at those rolled blunts! His wicked sense of meth preparation! Those bloodshot eyes!

Well, first of all: I wear contacts, guy! I get tired at night! As if the perilous nature of showing up on set without my lines memorized isn't enough, I also have to deal with these jerks on my Friday and Saturday nights. On set or off makes no difference - it's obvious that pitfalls abound. Good thing I learned constant vigilance from Mad-Eye Moody!

James and Chris, partners in crime, early junior year.

But I've gotten myself sidetracked. I set out to tell one story and got lost in another. So batten down the hatches! What I wanted to say was this: yes, if you follow Bay State, you'll know that my friendly dealer of a character was wanted for murder for a few episodes...but how else could the writers explain me going abroad? Conceivable alternatives were in short supply. But while I was overseas, I realized a thing or two about my life at BU. One of the realizations I came to was my love for Bay State, and for the people who are involved with it. I hold no great store in my own abilities as an actor - in fact, I think the quality of the acting shot up dramatically in my absence (and I do believe there was a correlation).

James and Chris, senior year, their characters now running the new fraternity at BHC.

With that being said, I was overjoyed to return to the cast and crew this semester. From my wonderful executive producers down to the poor souls on boom; from my freshman year roommate and accomplice in crime, Chris Bell (Davis), to the wonderful newcomers; in short, I am a lucky guy to have met them one and all. I enjoy everything about the show...and I hope you do too.

James on set on an off day, supporting the cast and crew.

Thanks for blogging, James! Stay classy.

Have a wonderful holiday break everyone! We'll be back in the studio next Tuesday, perhaps even shooting a certain 118 scene that cannot wait ANY longer.

I know what you're thinking: Episode 118?! Already?! But next semester is coming quickly, and we had a great writers' meeting last Sunday night to discuss the rest of the season and draw up a treatment for 118. We're bringing back an old favorite set or two, and getting out of the dorms for a little while. It's been about ten episodes since we've done something as crazy as we're about to do--but who would we be if we weren't constantly pushing the limits of the show? It's going to be epic, as per usual.

I'd call to wish you all happy holidays, but how am I gonna dial...without a finger?
-Jenn

Three Weeks!

2009-11-18T16:55:00.000-08:00

Apologies, Bay Staters, for the delay in updates! It was a busy week and weekend.

So, flash back to two weeks ago: we started out the day in the good ol' RA Office.
Liz directed Ava, Davis, and Robin (not pictured) in a battle of wills for an early 117 scene.

Former actor Madison, "Mason," stopped by! Excellent.

The next set of the day was a new set: Gus's room.
Gus was tough, and didn't mind hitting the floor take after take. Morgan looked adorable, as per usual.
At the end of the day, weeks of hard work earned Claire the TCB award!

Flashforward a week later, we build Nina and Claire's room for an INTENSE Claire/Ethan series of scenes.

Amadeo looks flashy in her Charlie Chaplin blue hat.

We also build the newsroom, and shoot a Camryn/Grace 116 scene...

...Followed by an intense 116 Davis/Claire/pledges scene that was so hyped that several actors not scheduled for the day showed up to watch. Love it.

Lauren was a fan, Amadeo amused.
Greg earned the TCB award for his excellent acting (we knew we'd find the right part for you?) and for some great PA work week after week.

Alright, we're nearly caught up! James, Lauren, and Chris invite you to...this past Tuesday!
First set of the day: Alexis and Whitney's room. Serious argument goin' down.
Director Anthony coaches them on the best way to...well, you'll see.

Then, James ("Sebastian") returns, bearing Emily ("Alexis") some bad news.

Taylor: you made the blog. Congratulations.

After Alexis and Whitney's room, we moved onto the frat common room. Davis gives the frat pledges a talking to...and a mission.
Actors Alex ("Kyle") and Cody ("Zack") look very concerned.

Then, I am embarrassed to admit, that my long-running claim of never having won the TCB award was silenced. Thanks for the recognition, guys, it's been a great four years.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope to never fall so far behind on blogging again.

Please have all the turkey your roommate can buy,
-Jenn

This is a Party Set.

2009-11-01T08:34:00.000-08:00

Apologies on the blog delay, readers! I have been down for the count with the swine. But, we're back in business, and have two shoots to catch up on!

First: Saturday shoot (10/24)

We started off building Camryn's apartment, with it's wheelchair-accessible hallways. Things are tense in that household. Are we seeing a speed bump here...or a roadblock?

Next up, Zack's moving in with some help from his older sister, Ava. He seems not too impressed with his new digs...maybe some sports memorabilia will spice it up?
And perhaps a party will spice it up even more? Lots of actors on set on a Saturday, and, honestly, the most crew we have EVER seen on a Saturday. You guys all rock.

Last set of the day? Alexis and Whitney's room. Alexis in her usual form...and Robin quite skeptical. Actresses Emily and Jenn both OWNED this short scene. Action/reaction for the win.

Today TCB goes to...Conrad. For letting us deface him on his first day on set. That's the kind of PA we like around here.

And so, with Saturday wrapped, let's move on to the shoot of the month (nah, the shoot of the year!)...

Tuesday (10/27) was RIDICULOUS. So many party scenes. So many actors. Last day of director trials. We had to shoot scenes out of order and all sorts of backwards because of actor conflicts. And somehow, we made it. Mad props all around.

So, I have only one photo to share with y'all of the set, and I think I must quote Anthony:
"This is a party set, y'all. Remember: THIS IS A PARTY."

TCB goes to all the crew members who rocked out director trials. Great job, guys! (The other four pictures will be on facebook, promise!)
Then, we all went to Sunset, and had the BIGGEST SUNSET GATHERING...ever. Like 20 people, yo.

So, I'm going to go back to bed, in hopes that I'll be ready for Bay State this Tuesday!
H1N1 will never defeat...the Rouge...
-Jenn

Trials and Error (But Mostly the Former)

2009-10-21T15:08:00.000-07:00

Hola, Bay Staters!

First things first: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NAN!

Necessary celebratory picture.

It's blog-update time in the Wednesday night TV Shop. We had a great shoot in Studio East last night: not only were director's trials starting, but we revamped an old set, designed a new set, and had a professor reprise her recurring role on the show!

First set of the day: Hospital Room. Classic set made more interesting by C-stand IV's and the ever-hard-to-find curtain. Erin's air mattress is so tall that we feared that we'd need a stepladder to get Gus into that bed, but it worked out. Check out a few of the pics:

Liz begins hanging the infamous hospital room curtains.

Chris works with freshmen actors Kelsey (Jaime) and Gus (Max).

BU Acting Professor Amanda Good-Hennessey as "Dr. Michaelson."

Next set of the day? "Basement." A new set, one with the ability to create a cool lighting plan. Last week was all about the red emergency lights, so we made this week about the fake-dark of television: blue, blue, blue. Taylor pulled a lot of great props for this set, and built a fun lever and fusebox.

The three Basement scenes were also the first scenes ever directed by Liz, Anthony, and Taylor. Director Trials are the most fun part of the year (I think), because everyone puts so much work into perfectly their scenes, and everyone pitches in to make sure every job gets shadowed and every jobs gets done. The set is never buzzing with as much nervous excitement as the first week of Trials.

Taylor, arranging props on the table.

Sophomore PA's Ian and Kevin agreed to be frat pledge bit-players in the scenes.

First up: Director-Wannabe Liz!

Executive Producer Lauren and Director Chris reminisce about their respective Trials.

Actor Cody (Zack) gets ready to pull the lever. Will he do it..?

Second up is Anthony! This is him post-directing, all smiles. Rock on!

Third up: Taylor! He had fewer actors, but one giant variable...

...his scene involved the Smoke Monster.

Which Melissa and I battled with for far too long. She's the Smoke Master, now.

But everything came out alright! We got some good pick-ups, finished early, and went to Sunset with BS-alum Megan, who stopped by to say hello!

Finally, tonight's TCB went to...

Super Nice and Super Tough Kevin and Ian! Word. Up.

See you this Saturday, crew! It will be fun...and pizzalicious.

I still can't believe that the entire time we were hooking up...you were MARRIED,
-Jenn

People Ride In Elevators ALL The Time!

2009-10-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hello, Beacon Hill College Enthusiasts!

What are we spray-painting? You'll see...momentarily.

We had an exciting (and well-staffed!) Saturday shoot this past weekend, and I'd like to tell you about it. Episode 115 is really coming together, and I'm already counting down to the viewing party. So...welcome to the picture post!

The first set we built was the revamped RA Office, looking much warmer with our newly painted flats. Actors Neil (Hudson) and Madelyn (Ava) started us off on the right foot with an RA Showdown.

Then, we moved onto the typical RA Office Scene: The welcome-back-let's-listen-to-Ava's speech old chestnut, in which we learn some valuable information about the state of the dorms.

We should mention that this was the first shoot ever for actress Jenn (Robin)! And I would also like to mention that actor Alex (Ethan) is silly, but awesome.

Next set of the day? A Hallway with an Elevator.

It looks kind-of mazelike from this angle, but it really came together.

Some people doubted that the elevators could be moved, but Lauren and I headed that project once we finished spray-painting Taylor's foam-boards. We heard from the directors and the associate producer that the elevator motion looked good, so I'm going to check this one off the "Bay State Victory" checklist. Besides, my parents will be amused by my forced cameo as "Girl in Elevator."

Mad props to actors Valentina (Olivia) and Alex (Kyle) for putting up with the terrifying smoke machine.

The smoke machine in question...oh, how it has driven us crazy so many times before.

We finished the shoot with not a minute to spare, and I can't remember the last shoot so fun. Everyone should come again next Saturday: we'll lure you there with free pizza again.

I'd like to end today with my favorite shot of the day, and ask you: have our actors ever looked sexier? Look at that lighting! The set! The gorgeous people!

That's how we do.

See you all tomorrow for our regular Tuesday shoot, and again next Saturday for another epic day. I know we ask a lot of the crew...but look at what great work we're putting out together! That's what it's all about: having fun and making something we can all be proud of.

I think you guys ARE cut out for this job,
-Jenn

Ch-ch-ch-changes!

2009-10-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, Bay State enthusiasts!

Sir Joshua Brown reminded me that I did not post about the 116 Read-Through! Travesty, as I'm Head Writer.

Before talking about the script itself, let me mention another success of the night: creating the Bay State Punch.
It's made of Strawberry Kool-Aid and Blueberry-Pomegranate juice. Laur took this color-accented picture as I was mixing it together. Get it? We were finally drinking the Kool-Aid, as people so often say about our organization. Because we can take a joke :)

But back to the read-through! The episode went over really well. There's some very intense fraternity threatening, a few secrets revealed, a kiss or two, and a whole lot of typical college flirting and mischief. If Episode 115 was a solid back-to-school meet-and-greet, and Episode 117 is an epically dark final episode of this three-ep arc, Episode 116, "We Can Go to My Room," is the sweet, light-hearted middle episode (with the typical Bay State dark edge) that sets up everything to explode in 117.

Laura and Amanda can't believe a certain scene at the end of the third act. You'll know the one when you see it. Yeah, we're going there. Or are we? Someone's character is put in quite a dangerous position.

I think you'll all enjoy 116. It's going to be a lot of fun to shoot, since it centers around one thing we do the best at--giant party scenes with too many character for one 2nd AD to handle.

And...other big news! WE PAINTED THE FLATS. Goodbye, Mint Green.

Liz, Amadeo, and I got to COM at 8:30 in the morning to pull them all out and lay everything down. We pulled off all the tape and staples, sanded down the nail holes, and got to work. Professor Cav bought us supplies and paint (Laur and I debated over the color forever, but I like the warm yellow we chose), and I got to work edging the doors and windows while Liz and Amadeo rolled a first coat onto all the flats. Jon and Taylor came by soon, and they helped do the second coats and paint the trim.

Here they are! Ready to be used in a few hours...on our Saturday shoot!

See you soon...we can go to Studio East,
-Jenn

Outtakes.

2009-10-14T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hello, readers!

Normally, I'd have a lot to blog about while at work in the TV Shop on a Wednesday night, but Columbus Day has delayed this week's Bay State shoot. However, since I was going through pictures to send to Tiffany, the graphic designer we commissioned to do our poster, I figured I'd share a couple of the outtakes.

The top picture was snapped while Lauren and Chris set up the dolly shot for the intro (BANG!), and the bottom picture is one shot of our beautiful crew (thanks, Laura!).

Have a good week of midterms, guys!

Off to join some innocuous clubs,
-Jenn

The Wheelchair Diaries.

2009-10-13T06:32:00.000-07:00

Hello, readers!
Welcome to the latest guest blog. This one comes from Taylor, who has been with the show for two years now. He started as a lowly PA, but quickly became an editor, and has spent the past year being a truly kickin' propmaster and art director. No matter what we've thrown at him, Taylor always figures out a crazy and innovative way to get every prop we ask for, and twice as many brilliant ones that we didn't even think of.

So they told me that I needed to get a wheelchair…

As you can imagine I was “thrilled,” and by thrilled, I mean contemplated suicide. The thing about wheelchairs is to get them from any hospital/student health services you need a prescription, as it is an expensive item, and probably too many frat boys have had accidents with them.

So I started trying to find one, I went to Goodwill, I checked thrift stores, anywhere that might have one. Then I turned to the internet. I wanted to see how much a used wheelchair was, I found one without wheels for $25, but that wouldn’t work. I also found many that were $300, but that wouldn’t work.

And finally, after an entire weekend of looking for a wheelchair, let me repeat that, AN ENTIRE WEEKEND OF LOOKING FOR A SINGLE PROP, THAT’S ONE ITEM FOR A COLLEGE TV SHOW, I found an add selling a wheelchair for $75, but there was no picture, and the guy was in Malden.

Taylor, March 2009, with a briefcase for the crack den.

I think I can make this work…maybe…I mean I am awesome.

So come Wednesday, Chad (Lauren) and I load into her car for a little road trip. And by road trip I mean getting stuck in traffic for an hour trying to decipher Beyonce lyrics. It was fun, except for the traffic, we talked about how I should watch Glee, Chad’s friends, my brother, and such. It was fun until we reached our final destination.

As soon as we pulled up to this man’s, who I never met, house we heard this “sceetch scretch sreetch screeeetchhhh” It’s the kind of sound you hear in a horror movie right before the two unsuspecting kids who are only there to pick up a wheelchair for a college TV show get killed, kind of sound.

I turned to Chad and said, “Maybe they just have a giant hamster?”

Taylor, April 2009, checking in with the directors.

As we got closer to the door, the sound stopped, suddenly. You’d think that in a situation like that it’d probably be comforting that a sound like that would stop, but it made everything creepier, until the man, “Mike Wheels” as he’s labeled in my phone, answered the door.

He was a very nice man and we had no need to worry, and then he said this,

“I’ll be honest with you guys the person this was for, well, she, never really, got the chance to, uh, use this.” He almost cried. It was beyond awkward. He asked, “Who this for? A Grandparent?” Because Chad and I look so much alike. Chad answered for me, “It’s actually for a television show.” Mike Wheels was obviously a little upset that we were using it to film with rather than helping some elderly person.

Taylor "inserting an IV" into actress Farrell.

He was very polite though and asked all the questions people normally do when they find out you make something they can watch. You know the, “Oh what is it?”’s and “Where can I find it?”’s.

We left with the wheelchair and found no traffic coming back to Boston. And there were no further problems, except, I paid for it out of my own pocket, and have yet to be reimbursed by BUTV, so I guess now I own a $75 wheelchair stored in studio east.

Needless to say, Taylor won the TCB award this week.

Thanks for writing, Taylor! I promise you'll be reimbursed when the paperwork goes through :)

I hope everyone's looking forward to flat-painting on Friday, and our first Saturday shoot this weekend!

Mint green flats are okay freshman year, but after that, they're just skanky.
-Jenn

We told you so.

2009-10-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

Actor Laura on screen, and Sparkplug Liz on camera.

We had a *crazy* shoot yesterday--it involved three sets (one old, one new, one revamped) and so many actors. In fact, I even drove down to BC to pick up actor Alex, so he could shoot a scene with BU's Dean Zamojski! Our adult guest stars are always so much fun to have on set.

The day started off in the newsroom, with new actor Torre ("Grace") rockin' out in several scenes with vets like Melody ("Camryn") and Laura ("Claire").

Actors Torre and Melody, reading through their first scene of the day.

Also, I can't say much here, but fan favorite Amanda ("Bailey") has returned after a semester abroad, and there have been some interesting developments in her storyline. You'll see.

Actor Amanda, all smiles.

Stayed tuned: we're a couple weeks behind on guest blogs, so expect several in a row! It's midterm time, so I'll cut the crew some slack.

Saturday shoots start this weekend, and the read-through for Episode 116 ("We Can Go to My Room") is this Thursday!

Sure know how to write a script, that's so hot...
-Jenn

Kill the lights!

2009-10-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

The photoshoot on 9/29 was definitely successful. We've got a lot of really cool and dangerous promo shots, which are being made into a kickin' poster. The group shot of the cast is so gorgeous that it is my desktop background right now, and I'll see what I can do to get EP Lauren to release it to the public :)

However, I feel like I need to give you guys some hint of what's to come, so...
Our gorgeous cast, muggin' for the camera.

More pictures will be up soon, and look forward to a Guest Blog from Art Director Taylor!

Keeping my sophomoric thoughts to my senior self,
-Jenn

Oh, Maxwell.

2009-09-23T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Bay State was in true form once again last night. We invited half of the fifty (!!!) interested freshmen/sophomores to be PAs, and the set was positively buzzing with activity. So many hands, so many new faces, so much excitement!

We had two new sets this Tuesday. The first is the "President's Office," which is President Bennett's home away from home. Check it out, as Technical Assistant Megan hangs another light:

Don't be fooled by how empty the set looks--most of our crew was on dinner break, and those left know better than to walk around the set while Megan, Liz, and Jon (Team Sparkplug, I've heard?) are working.

When the crew returned, we had a little downtime before our first actors of the day arrived. Since there were so many freshmen, we used the time to familiarize them with the studio cameras. Step One: Zooming. Step Two: Lead Room/Head Room. Step Three: Panning.

We all know Step Zero: FOCUS. FOCUS. FOCUS.

Here's Maddie, showing them the ropes, as Liz puts up the final light:

After the training was complete, 1st AD Erin assigned everyone their cameras and booms, and split the rest of the PAs between camera-shadowing and the control room. Then, the moment everyone was waiting for arrived: Dean Elmore arrived!

This was the first day on set for both Dean Elmore ("President Bennett") and the new actor Gus ("Max"). Both delivered fantastic performances, and handled the pressures of set very well.

After running the scene enough times to get coverage, we moved on to our second set of the day (also new!), the Frat Common Room. For those who don't know, the remnants of the infamous AKA fraternity have revamped themselves into a new, seemingly-wholesome fraternity devoted to journalism, Sigma Delta Chi. In light of the destruction of their former frat house, the members of SDX have taken up a new residence inside one of the largest dorms BHC has to offer.

SDX is run by two of the slickest guys on campus, played to perfection for the fourth year in a row by James ("Sebastian") and Chris ("Davis").

In one of the scenes acted on last night, Davis and Sebastian begin recruiting freshmen pledges for the frat. Can you spot our new actors and our current crew members in this photo?

We've got big plans for the fraternity this year, along with big plans for every other organization on campus. The students at BHC have no idea what's coming...yet.

This week's TCB award goes to...Melissa!

One of our four stellar sophomore PAs, Melissa is being awarded for always being willing to help, and always keeping a smile on her face. Good work! :)

Check back for our next guest blog, and for a longer picture post!

Next Tuesday is the photo shoot, which is always a fun evening. We'll be shooting the updated intro, and taking so many pictures that this blog won't be able to hold half of them! Not to mention, the second half of our brigade of PAs is coming to set, so it's going to be a full house in Studio East.

For now, I'm off to have a hot date with a vile misogynist.
-Jenn

Guest Blog #2: Erin, 1st AD/Writer

2009-09-20T07:22:00.000-07:00

For our second guest blog, we welcome last week's TCB winner, Erin! This is her third year on Bay State. She began as a PA, as we all do, and quickly became the set director. After a rigorous series of director's trials, during which she directed the epic "Come off it, Ben!" scene, Erin's excellent organizational and planning skills led to her current position as 1st AD. This semester is also her first as a writer.

Erin, rocking out on the famous, though un-aired, Samantha/Ben location shoot (April 2009)

The 20th season of Bay State is now underway, and shaping up to be just as crazy and awesome as the last. In my second semester as 1st Assistant Director, I am no longer that phased by having to schedule things that look daunting on paper. Therefore, when I arrived at auditions on Tuesday and was immediately reminded by the producers that I had the hardest job for the day, I knew it would work out. Because no matter how many challenges are thrown at us, we always accomplish what we set out to do.

Erin setting up a shot, checking audio, and keeping the camera dry on location (April 2009)

I'll never forget the one Saturday shoot last semester when we managed to film 3 scenes, including a set change, with a crew of only 8 people (even with our producers on camera, we didn't have enough people, so camera 2 was locked in place and unattended all day). Another example is the archives shoot last semester, when we finished on such a tight schedule that the shot of the "blood" pouring from Ben?s head was filmed while the set was being dismantled around him.

Set Director Erin and Art Director Haley working on the new board for the newsroom (October 2008)

Thanks to careful planning, lots of help from Field Producer Jinny and Head PA Megan, and a hard-working crew, auditions were a success. We kept a steady stream of prospective actors going in and out of the studio and the entire crew got a chance to see at least some of the auditions. For me, it was very exciting to be able to watch all of the auditions from the control room this year. Last year when I was Set Director, I spent a good part of the night running around shuffling actors between rooms, and only got to watch some of them. So to be able to take notes and have input on the casting process was a big honor. Thursday we had callbacks, which could not have been more of a success! Our new actors (whom I can't wait to welcome to the Bay State family) sold us so much that at the end of the night there weren't even any disagreements regarding who should be cast. It was a perfect example of Bay State, really: the process was long, crazy, and occasionally stressful, but everything clicked in the end and the pay-off will be so worth it.

Director Maddie and 1st AD Erin working on a scene. (March 2009)

This is also my first semester as a writer- as a matter of fact, this Tuesday will be my first experience seeing scenes that I wrote be filmed. I know that hearing actors whom I have worked with and gotten to know over the past two years say my dialogue will be an extremely bizarre and rewarding experience. The writing process for the show happens so far ahead of time (next week we begin the treatment for 117, and we've only had one day of filming for 115) that you really get to see the development of an episode through from beginning to end. I was so excited about the scenes that I was assigned for 116 that I literally started drafting them that night when I got home.

Director Chris filling 1st AD Erin in about his updated shot list (January 2009)

Today we received an updated shooting schedule for the semester, and with the added challenge of adding an episode to our regular season this year, we are in for some crazy weeks ahead. Even if you've been to one of our shoots, I think it's hard to understand just how much work goes into producing the show. Aside from Tuesday nights and the occasional Saturday or location shoot, there are multiple meetings to plan art/set and blocking beforehand. The week preceding the epic archives shoot for 114, I think we had a total of 6 plus hours of meetings to ensure that day went smoothly.

Erin on camera, back before she was the one telling the cameras where to be (December 2008)

But I would not take back a minute- I think Lauren summed up the sappy feelings I have about my involvement in the show pretty well, but I want to add that joining this crew was the best decision I have made at BU. I have learned so many skills that I will take with me as I pursue a career in television, and met amazing friends. I even just concluded my paper on soap operas for my TV Drama class with a paragraph on Bay State, because really- how could I not?

Erin, after building the set for the photoshoot. (October 2008)

Thanks for blogging, Erin! Can't wait to see what happens next in the upcoming episodes!

Mini-muffins are ready!
-Jenn

Picture Post from Auditions!

2009-09-19T13:29:00.001-07:00

Lauren and Erin wonder how many people will show up.

Answer: enough that we need to have a second holding room.
This is our read-through room, where ten actors at a time wait before entering the Studio.

Art Director Taylor and Actor Laura have fun while chatting with potential actors in the holding room.

Actor Laura and Writer Amadeo make sure all the people trying out head downstairs to fill out paperwork.

So many of our actors came to read with the auditioners! Thanks, guys.

When auditions slowed, some of our cast and crew members tried out for the parts themselves. Hilarity ensued.

TCB goes to...1st AD Erin!
For keeping our shoots running smoothly every week, but especially during auditions :)

Stay tuned for our next Guest Blog from Writer/1stAD Erin!

Off to plan the frat's operations,
-Jenn

Auditions!

2009-09-17T20:44:00.001-07:00

Thanks to a lot of PR work (good job, Anthony!), Bay State was officially "everywhere" this year. We know, because we asked all of our 50+ (!!!) auditioning students where they heard about us.

Long story short, auditions went well. Extremely well. There were so many great actors, and the whole day went (apparently) flawlessly. Mad props to the crew for keeping things organized, and thanks to the many of our current actors who read scenes with their potential future costars.

Tonight, we called back thirteen people for six roles. We made them read different scenes than those they auditioned with, and paired them up with other new people to see what the group dynamic would be like. Valentina and Laura, two of our current actors, acted as stand-ins for all non-auditioning roles.

And we reached a decision. The producers, directors, and I sat down after callbacks and--more or less--screamed with joy. We think we've found the perfect six actors to become the next generation of the show. They're awesome. I wish I could tell you who they are, but you'll find out soon enough.

Hey, they don't even know yet.

I will do an Auditions-themed picture post asap, don't worry.
Next week: Two new sets, lots of new scenes, lots of new actors, and Dean Elmore guest stars!

Go make some waves!
-Jenn

Picture Post from the 9/8 Shoot!

2009-09-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to the joys of set build. Same old flats...for now...

1st AD Erin held the shoot steady all day, even when anyone else would have been freaking out about the schedule!

Chris directs Liz and Emily on the best ways to scathe a roommate...with words.

And here's Liz, reaming Emily out. With great shoes, though you can't see.

Directors Chris and Maddie, ready to face another semester of sex, drugs, and murder.

Art Director Taylor fixing a poster while Maddie blocks actors.

Chris directing James, an actor finally back from a semester abroad!

Actor Emily is careful with props :)

Maddie blocks Laura, while Alex and Morgan read lines.

Camera Three gets set-up for a medium shot on Laura.

After a long shoot, the crew meets outside Studio East.

Today's TCB: Jon! For outstanding work in audio/lighting.

Thanks for reading, guys! Or should I say...looking?
Next week: AUDITIONS! Tell your friends. 9/15 from 5-9pm (rolling); register in COM323.

Wouldn't want you to have to get two imaginary phone calls in one day,
-Jenn

Guest Blog #1: Lauren, Executive Producer

2009-09-08T23:20:00.000-07:00

We're kicking off our weekly guest-blog series with our very own Lauren, who is starting her fourth year on Bay State, and is definitely a seasoned veteran when it comes to the trials of Studio East. Beginning as a PA in 2006, she quickly became art/set director in the spring, then set her sights on becoming 1st AD *and* 2nd AD at the same time. Along the way, she took on the roles of editor and writer. After a grueling semester as Associate Producer, she has finally ascended to the top position: Executive Producer.

There’s no way to avoid a sappy entry. I tried really hard, but I can’t stop pouring my heart out into this “guest blog” entry; to be honest, I’ve been waiting for today since I stepped into Studio East for the first time three years ago. And even though three years isn’t that long, it feels like it’s been decades. I remember walking into my first Bay State shoot and thinking, “Yes. This. I want this, and I want to sit in that chair.”

Lauren at the Photoshoot (Sophomore Year)

Time flies, kids. And today, I found myself walking into my very last semester on the show, realizing that I got the chair...but it’s so much more than that.

Lauren, Mike, and Chris at the Musical Shoot (Sophomore Year)

Bay State has driven my college career more than any other factor. It’s inspired me (Four people with “can-do” attitudes can change an entire production). It’s taught me (Not just the raw skills that go into producing a television show, but the ability to work as a team player, and to affect something from start to finish). It’s comforted me (My closest friends in the world are all members of Bay State, or associated with butv10 somehow). It’s rewarded me (Try to tell someone what you do for Bay State and get a reaction other than “you’re awesome.” It won’t happen.) It’s challenged me (You want me to do what with Mercedes’ Penthouse?/How many actors are coming to the wedding?/We’re doing how many location shoots?). And, on top of all that, it’s been a blast (Every read-through in the history of read-throughs).

Lauren and Jenn at Josh's Bay State Marathon (Freshman Year)

Bay State, when I began, was a fun, but flawed show. We watched an episode that spouted the classic line, “I’m a real doctor and so are these test results!” What I have loved about the journey thus far has been the improvement; we set in our minds, as a cohesive crew, one goal: “greatness.” And there have been people who didn’t set the bar at the same level, and we have surpassed their expectations over and over again. We’ve put in the time, the money, and we’ve all made personal sacrifices (mostly sleep) to create something that is a soap opera. When I started on Bay State, a Telly was a far-away dream, and now we’ve just won one—with, if I have it my way, plenty more to come.

Lauren with the ever-impressive Water Cooler (Junior Year)

So, having rambled on for a few paragraphs, this is the attitude with which I approached the shoot today: gratitude, enthusiasm, and nothing but love.

As always, the first shoot went horribly wrong. Camera 2 couldn’t focus unless the operator manually adjusted the rings on the front (which required super-long arms). Only one microphone could record at a time. We walked into Studio East half an hour early to find it completely crowded with props that we had to move before 4:00 PM, with nowhere to really put them.

The crew works as Tim tries to fix Camera 2.

And, as always, the Bay State crew found a way to not just persevere, but to excel in the face of adversity. It was strange, sitting at the front, letting everyone else do the majority of the problem-solving. I got to witness today how well the training tradition of Bay State has actually succeeded. We were delayed an hour (if not more) collectively, and we still broke set and left the studio by 8:58 PM (with a text of “thanks” from Tim).

Four generations of Bay State at Sunset: Megan ('09), Karen ('07), Jac ('08), Lauren ('10)

Following the shoot, we went to Sunset Cantina—as tradition has dictated for as long as I’ve been on the crew—and 14 of us attended. We toasted the year (I, of course, with a Dirty Ho), and spent the next several hours laughing so hard we cried. That’s the thing about Bay State—we can spend five hours stressing out about everything breaking down, and still end the night with giant smiles on our faces.

Megan and Lauren, being Producer-like (Junior Year)

I hope I’ve articulated to you how much this experience means to me. As we enter a new year, it can only get better, and I hope it means just as much to the rest of the crew (both those I know and adore already, and those I haven’t met just yet). My only goal after college is to one day work on a show that I love as much as I love this one.

The amazing board made for the new Newsroom set, the first set Lauren ever designed (Freshman Year)

Thanks so much for blogging, Lauren!
And to the rest of our readers: look out for more pictures from today's shoot soon.

Places to be!
-Jenn

Episode 116!

2009-09-07T10:55:00.001-07:00

The writers' meeting last night was a definite success. We're not letting this interim episode be anything but exciting, and we've got some new pairings, new problems, and new parties for you.

But before we all get excited about what's in store for BHC, let's get ready for the big goings on this week:

TUESDAY: Our first shoot! In our usual fashion, we're kicking things off with some dorm sets.
WEDNESDAY: buTV10 General Interest Meeting! Let's show the freshmen (and those of all ages who are generally interested) what we're all about.

I heard that the Executive Producers from all the shows are meeting with new General Manager DJ tonight...who knows what kinds of ideas they'll come up with for buTV this semester. I can't wait to find out.

Now, I'm off to babysit my roommate's girlfriend's secret child,
-Jenn

Basement, please.

2009-09-04T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last night was the very successful read-through for the latest episode of our favorite soap! There were introductions, new connections, quite a few laughs and gasps, and--thanks to the lovely Amanda--at least one scream.

But when you find out exactly what happened to Amanda's character, Bailey, while she's been overseas...well, you'll understand.

So, thanks to all the crew members and cast members who participated, and major props to this season's writers, who managed to produce a great season premiere that gets back to what the heart of the show is about: college drama.

We start shooting this Tuesday, so everyone get ready! Will the crew be able to handle such an intense season?

Of course we can. We've been in the business...for years.
-Jenn

Recruits!

2009-09-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

In the next episode of Bay State, Davis and Sebastian begin to weed through all the new frat pledges. That's what this week felt like to me, with all the freshman recruiting events going on around campus. It's a new year, and we need a great crop of freshman to keep our show running smoothly.

First up: SPLASH. Every freshman goes to Nickerson Field right after Matriculation, and we had our buTV10 booth set up to welcome them. Overall, we handed out 400+ flyers for the butv10 General Interest Meeting (which is 9/9/09: mark your calendars!), and over 200 flyers for Bay State's open auditions (which are 9/15/09: tell your friends!). Special thanks to Lauren, DJ, Anthony, Nan, Amadeo, and everyone who stopped by to say hi!

The next day: Freshman Barbeque on the COM Lawn! These guys are definitely our target market for crew members. We handed out even more flyers: special thanks to Jon G.!

The read-through is tomorrow, and we start shooting on Tuesday!
Stay tuned for our first guest blog from brand new Executive Producer: Lauren.

I'll hafta holla atchu later,
-Jenn
Head Writer

A New Season of Sex, Drugs, and Murder.

2009-08-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

"Welcome to BHC, bro."

Those are the first words of the new episode of Bay State, America's Longest-Running, Award-Winning College Soap Opera, and, as Head Writer this Fall, I could not be more excited.

Episode 115, currently titled "Too Late," will be the first episode of the twentieth (!!!) season of our show, which will be the first season to feature six episodes instead of the usual five.

Basically, we're kickin' it into overdrive, because we've got a determined crew and dedicated cast, and we're more than up to the challenge.

Check back at this blog often once the semester starts, because we'll be providing lots of updates about our various stages of production, with guest blogs by many of our talented cast and crew. We'll be looking forward to a season of new characters, new sets, and a whole new generation of crew ready to take on the drama of Beacon Hill College.

Be Easy,
Jenn
Head Writer